Meeting Notes

February 9th, 2023

Cajun named Assessment
- Mentor is CwnAnnwn
Rook named Lore Master

Number Of Wolves Present

Attendance:

@ApacheWolf
@Kova
@Rook
@Shakira
@Sanek
@Panther
@Rune
@Fianna
%Sasika
%CwnAnnwn
%Calder

+Fern +Code +Cajun +Ophaelos
Leora Foxfur Grimwolf

Pack Meeting Begins

* Kova perhaps they’d be equally as lost in a pool of reflection. Without his gentle nuzzle, she’d remain there for a little while longer. She dipped her head and nosed him lightly in kind before turning and making her way up towards the Alpha’s stone. Once she was at it’s edge, she would lift her muzzle up and howl. Perhaps shortly after FoxFur’s to indicate a gathering. A direction for the fae to traverse.
* Fianna would see Panther just to the north as she and Calder entered the area, and she had been about to quickly turn his way, wanting an update on how he was and of the fox, but Kova’s howl would rise just then and she would arrest the motion to remain near Calder for the meeting. The reporting could wait. For now, she was interested to hear what might be a paw.and would pad into the middle of the clearing, taking close note on all who appeared before settling nearby. Had she noticed Rook entering with Kova? Perhaps.. And a sly and keen look would be sent them both as she settled.
<Fern> -Ë‹Ë à¼»â There, yes, she had spotted her friend Saskia after a bit of gazing, not to mention other approaching wolves. But who was she with? From afar a black smudge might have been Panther- Noâ€¦ It was Grimolf. Her pelt prickled with tension, not to mention the stress of the amount of wolves that attended the meeting, but added onto the wolf she disliked probably mostâ€¦ This is going to be a challenge indeed. She was weary at first,not moving a paw forward, but at Kovaâ€™s howl she knew to heed it’s call, and that she did. Gingerly picking up the pace to the Alpha Stone.
* Leora she -was- headed to the hunting grounds to get something nice ‘n tasty! But there was a howl. She recognized it’s tone and meaning, so swiftly and without hesitation she would run towards the direction of the clearing. She had already had a good lead by now, and moments more the young and light fae would erupt out of the shadows! She was here! She made it! Quickly she would glance around to
<Leora> see who was there.
<Cajun> padded into the clearing and as the brute neared the stone he bowed and dipped his head to Kova and then to the others he saw seated nearby the big male paded over toa spot where he usualy sat at during gatherings and sat down on his haunces letting his tail lay on the ground ina half but relaxed curl behind himself Cajun then looked around seeing who all was there and nearby giving a twitch of his ears a couple times
* Rook Story ðŸ“– Depending on where Fianna and Calder stopped, he just might catch the goober-ridden glance of his sister. He’d not be embarrassed of his heart’s path, but he would give Fianna a roll of the eyes before he came to rest on the east side of the Alpha’s rock just a few padfalls from Ophaelos. If the male was attentive enough, then he too would catch a dip of the nose in greeting before more and more wolves began their own approach in answer to Kova’s call. A quick chuff would given to Cajun. Had he taken note of his youngest sister, Leora? A quick scan of the rest of the clearing might find her or she might just find him.

* CwnAnnwn Hearing the alpha fae’s howl for a gathering, he picks up his pace to an easy lope towards the clearing, weaving between the trees. It would not be long before the clearing became visible between the trees. His pace didn’t slow as he crossed the threshold of trees and clearing, angling towards the alpha rock as he scanned the gathering place to see whom was present.
* Foxfur hesitates near the edge of the gathered wolves, her head near to spinning at the number and variety of pelts and scents. She scuffs the earth with one dainty paw, a bit uncertainly, then her owl-yellow eyes find Kova-Alpha and she relaxes, loping easily into the midst of New Pack Wolves to bow, one foreleg extended politely, before the Alpha Female. “Well-met tonight now-now, Alpha Kova,” she greets respectfully with a loose mid-level swing of her brush-tail.
* Kova as the clearing began to usher in sounds of conversation and many scents, she felt her heart full with the amount of wolves to heed the call. There would be a gentle expression and one of thoughtfulness to it’s growth. She allowed what time was needed for each wolf to hear and heed the call as they desired. She would turn to Foxfur who approached and she offered to the fae a chuff in
<Kova> greeting in kind. “Well met.” she’d respond. Moments more would pass, and she would cast her eyes to several among the fold. “Thank you to all who have heeded tonights call. We will have a swift meeting, and to follow a Lore Night.” she swung her tail behind her lightly before it fell against her haunches. “First off, I would like to call Cajun forward.”
Fianna would look about for someone to.settle by tonight that she did not normally do, her eyes scanning the wolves and perhaps spotting Fern? The assessment seemed worried about something, off kilter perhaps, and she had always hung about the outskirts of the pack. Fianna would chuff softly to her and her beckon with her head for the fae to.settle.nearby if she’d like? She’d also spot Saskia with Grimolf, and her attention
<`Raven> would pin the two for a moment before she settled more, a light gaze lingering on fern as the meeting began.
<`Raven> <Grimolf> â€œ What a lot of nonsense. . . â€œ He whispered in an irritated tone ; his worse nightmare coming to life in the form of a massive get to together ! They really did these annually, how ?!? A unfamiliar howl briefly stopped Grimolfâ€™s inner complaining turning towards the direction of it. Who was that ? â€” On second thought, he didnâ€™t really care. ( Here we go, Grimolf. ) He continued to talk to himself feeling the weight of dozen
<`Raven> scents harassing his nostrils. This was clearly a test sent by a higher power to see how long Grimolf could last before he went stir crazy. He sent Ophaelos, a nasty look before finding somewhere comfortable to lay his unwilling body down. Something told him someone was watching him in the corner of his orb â€” shifting his gaze to the side, he spotted Fern staring at him with a nervous. ( What are you looking at ? ) He thought out loud not
<`Raven> taking his orbs off Fernâ€™s gaze seeing how long until she broke eye contact.
<`Raven> <Fianna> c/Fianna Pink +Fianna would chuff softly to Foxfurs as well, knowing the fae wasn’t used to how meetings progressed and she would beckon her over to.sit beside them too?
<Cajun> perked his ears hearing the alpha words to him and he got up and made his way over to the front of the alpha stone the coal brute bowed his head to Kova then sat down facing her looking up*
* Leora like a bat in the night, she would fly into the clearing just in time! Oh man, she saw so many wolves! some new! Others friends like Panther! She hadn’t seen him in sometime and gave a hushed little wuff in his direction before seeing her brother, sister and her sisters other half. She still wasn’t all knowledged about that twitterpattin stuff, so it bothered her not. Perhaps this year might
<Leora> be slightly different for her? Who knew! She would aim to walk to her siblings first and settle beside them to have a comfy spot in which to listen to the meeting. She knew the rules!
* Panther heard the call, heeding it as quickly as he could. Perhaps catching Fianna’s eye, he would dip his head. There were a couple new wolves around that he hadn’t met yet. As he looked around, he may spot Saskia, and if he did, he was sure to notice Grimolf. He hummed, acknowledging the brute padding alongside his court. His paws shifted as he offered a soft chuff to the Guardian in Training and the brute beside her. It would seem as though Ophaelos was with them as well, and the same would be offered to him. Panther caught Leora’s hushed wuff, and he would dip his head in her direction. He turned, tuning into Kova’s words as he sat before the alpha rock.
* Foxfur would have eased forward at the chuffed acknowledgement of the Kind Alpha to nose gently at her ruff, then just as quickly, slips away to a respectable distance so she can scan the crowd of assembled wolves. So many! Foxfur notices Calder-friend among the many, and waves her tail friendly-like at the Big Dark-furred Male. But it is another wolf, a female with kind eyes (Fianna) who captures the little yearling’s attention. Drawn by her gaze on her, Foxfur trots gracefully over to sit back on her haunches next to her, chuffing a curious and interested hello as her ginger-backed ears rotate around, trying to capture every sound at once.
* Kova regardless of the meandering glances and passing tones of body language, she would read them and respond later. For now, her hues turned then to Cajun whom she called forward. ” Cajun, you have been a constant presence here for sometime, and you pledged yourself to the pack. I would like to ask you now, is it still in your heart to join WolfSpirits as your home and as your family?”
* Fern would surprisingly held his gaze for a moment longer than she expected to, before breaking contact to scan over the other wolves. There was clear tension between them both. And once close enough that only a few more steps would lead her to the side of Saskia, Fern would deliberately frown at the sight of the pitch black brute beside her. Eyes blinking once and then without words, she moved to take a seat on the outside of Ophaelos, farthest away from Grimolf. She would shuffle her paws nervously, not glancing even once over to either of them just yet. Fern didnâ€™t know how to feel, she didnâ€™t want to be anywhere near him right now but she would have to, she didnâ€™t even want to speak words to him. She wasn’t wanting to be mean to Saskia… But why would she sit next to him?
* Rune A nearby howl catches Rune’s attention, drawing her ears up. This howl did not sound distraught and so Rune would take her time descending from the boulder pile she was lounging on. She new the howl’s maker well, Alpha Kova, and heads towards the Clearing at a trot. The Caretaker often slipped into meetings late, materializing at the group’s edge to try and catch up on what had transpired.
* Ragaire âœ©â˜¾ Wee! What’s this? A howl, what joy! Ragaire streaks towards the Clearing at a sprint, paws flying over the earth as she dashes between the Hunting Ground and the Clearing. She’d been wasting time in the strip of woods between the two vast plains, trying to catch critters here and there. A meeting, though, was much more fun.
* Rook would watch Cajun be called to the front and would smile inwardly at the call to advance further in his journey to become pack. This would be interrupted by Fern who had unwittedly sat herself between he and Ophaelos…a little too close. The stone-hued male would clear his throat gently and whisper ”Uh, hello there, Fern. Mind settling just a pad fall or two to your left?”
*Ophaelos The brute would ignore the dirty look and would instead focus on Kova, looking up at her diligently as she spoke to Cajun, a male he had met only briefly. He would look away once he felt the presence of Fern taking a seat near him, but not too-near to draw any eyes. He’d notice her glances at Grimolf and her unease, and would gently nose her shoulder in greeting to keep her from getting too worked up over the brute, offering a smile and a
<`Raven> silent hello so as to not disturb the wolves currently talking, before returning his attention back up at the stone. *à³ƒà¼„
<Cajun> his attention fully focused on Kova as the Alpha spoke to him the coal male lisnted to her words and once she finished the big coal brute stood up on his fours Cajun gave a gentle respectable nod back to her then looked up meeting eyes with her once more “Yes indeed I would like that Very very much Kova I have greatly enjoyed my time here in all the clearings and I would like to make this my new home” he gave a wag of his tail then
<`Raven> stileld it
* Kova to Cajun’s words she offered a light expression. Her ears turned to the sounds of conversation among the others gathered, but her focus remained upon the brute before her. Paws would shift only a little as she smiled to his response. “As an assessment of the pack, you will be given a mentor. Your mentor will be the one to guide you through the creed and ways of the pack. To teach you the
<Kova> rules as well as to ensure that your path is true not for just the pack, but to yourself. Are you willing to undertake the responsabilities asked of an Assessment?”
* Fianna would understand if Foxfur didn’t recall her introduction a few days back. But the guardian had introduced herself! She would be sitting right beside Calder and as Foxfur moved closer Fianna’s tail would wag in a relaxed manner. It would seem Fern had no desire to sit beside her, however, for there had been no response to her chuff in the fae’s direction, and so Fianna would turn her attention forward to Kova, as Cajun was called forward her ears perking as she paid heed to what transpired.
* Saskia Overwhelmed by the wolves gushing into the clearing, her eyes would dart left and right as she was seated next to Grimolf, but would eventually settle on a softer sight. Her court, Panther. She offered a happy wave of her tail as he moved to join her, in which sheâ€™d lick his cheek a few times before whispering; â€œHello, my Heart..â€ She looked down at his swollen leg which looked better than before but was still swollen.
Unfortunately, she wouldâ€™ve caught the long stare off between Fern and Grimolf, diverting her attention from the black Hunter. She narrowed her eyes at the interaction. Luckily, Fern started in her direction. Sheâ€™d wag her tail, waiting for the fae to get close so she could nuzzle her. To her dismay, Fern rerouted and chose a seat next to Ophaelos which left Saskia dumbfounded and quite frankly, in a tinge of hurt. Sheâ€™d hum and turn back towards the front as Cajun got called to the front. The coal colored brute bringing a smile to Saskiaâ€™s expression. A yip here, and a yip there caused her to avert her eyes to a figure of orange settling into the crowd excitedly. Sheâ€™d perk her ears and lift her paw as she looked over the groups head to get a good view of whom this was. A new fae! How exciting. It seemed sheâ€™d been met, but Saskia would have to meet her herself in the coming days. She reminded Saskia, once again, of Code. à¼»
* Calder as he settled beside Fianna he would allow the meeting to unfold. So many wolves and so many scents would wash over him. He swung his tail slowly before allowing it to settle beside Fianna’s. Would he notice their daughter bounding in? Surely so. A soft and welcoming expression was given to her as she appeared but his mind seemed occupied with the proceedings.
<`Raven> <Cajun> listned carefuly as Kova spoke to him taking in each word to heart for it meant alot to him he was happy more then anyone could imagine right now finally having a home and a real family the coal male gave another bow and stood proper and regal on his fours as he Answered the alpha Kova “Yes I am ready and I promise to try and do my best to full all my duites and things that are asked of me and i shgall heed words of wisdom given to me
<`Raven> bya mentor with that he smiled and gave a coulple slow wags of his tail
<`Raven> <Fern> -Ë‹Ë à¼»â Fernâ€™s mind was completely and utterly elsewhere at the moment that she hadnâ€™t even noticed that Rook was already seated aside Ophaelos. Sheâ€™d pin her ears in a sort of apology and embarrassment. â€œOh- Sorry, Iâ€¦ Iâ€™m sorry.â€ She would gently mumble, as Kova seemed to be talking. Quickly scooting to the side to make enough room for them all while. âà¼ºËŽËŠ-
* Rune When Rune arrives in the Clearing she’d be shocked by the number of wolves present, and new wolves at that. She spots her mate not too far ahead of her and chuffs quietly to him, settling beside him with a nosing to his scruff. It was now that her eyes would scan the group. Saskia with an unknown black brute and her court, Panther. A tawny fae who Rune had scented breifly was sat timidly near Fianna. Ophaelos and Fern
<`Raven> were present, she’d need to talk with the fae following the meeting. Cajun, a bubbly wolf was stood in front of Kova. The Caretaker dips her head politely to Rook, who seemed to be seated alone for now. âœ²âŠ±
<`Raven> <Althea> Althea stood in the clearing with Elvira a few feet in front of her. They had only been aquatinted with the WolfSpirit pack for a couple days and the two wolves were beginning to become acclimated to their surroundings, and even each other. Althea looked at Elvira who she was beginning to think of as a friend. ”Oh man, what do you think they are up to over at Alpha rock? Looks like we are missing something…”
<Grimolf> ( Thatâ€™s what I thought look away, Fern. ) Grimolf mentally challenged Fern feeling a sense of accomplishment winning that little stare off. Was the Fae scared of him or did she really not like him. Whatever the case, if she stared at him like that again, heâ€™ll be sure to make it / known / Grimolf doesnâ€™t like being stared at by anyone. He scoffed when the two most undesirable wolves sat next to one another â€” Fern and Ophaelos.
<`Raven> A sorry sight for even sorer eyes. Give him strength ! â€˜ . . . â€˜
* Kova there would be a knowing and light smile given to Cajun’s direction. “Then, I will name your mentor now.” it was there her silvery light amber hues would cast long across the horizon to each wolf present. To the members of the pack her eyes would befall. “CwnAnwnn, please come forward.” she would look to the silvery hued brute and smile. “Cajun, from this moment forward
<Kova> CwnAnnwnn will be your mentor. From him you will learn the ways of the pack. From this moment forward, Cajun, you may introduce yourself as Assessment to WolfSpirits.” she would rise her paw and stomp it lightly.
* Leora as she gingerly scooted herself around all the wolves she would’ve come up to her sister, Fianna and brother Rook to nuzzle each in a greeting. Ooooo wow, did she see Ragaire!? Ok, the cool yearlings had to sit together, right? Perhaps before either of her siblings could offer a greeting in kind she would shuffle lithe paws to the fae. Lucky be her that she happened to seat herself near
<Leora> Fianna already. Maybe when Ragaire poked her mother, she would poke Ragiaire and giggle whisper like two kids at a slumber party. ‘hehe.. hey!’
Fianna would be glad to see Cajun moving up in the ranks, taking the next steps. He was a brute on her list to get to know better, and hopefully soon she’d have a chance. Her musings were cut short by both Foxfur’s nose brushing, and soon after her nearly 2 year old daughter – aka ball of energetic fur – nosing her other side, weedling her way between Calder and Fianna’s sides. She first brushed Ragaire’s crown with her
<`Raven> muzzle and licked a few times to get her to settle, then looked with a gentle wave of her tail to. Foxfur, an apologetic glance in her eyes for her daughter, though – close in age, perhaps the fae’s could become fast friends? Now wouldn’t be a time for speaking however and she’d model this by turning her muzzle to attention toward the alpha stone.
<`Raven> <CwnAnnwn> c/Cwn Silver male perked as his mate chuffed to him, returning the chuff quietly. He nuzzled the fae tenderly and whispered, “Hello my heart”. His attention was drawn as his name was called by the alpha fae, pushing to all fours, he would begin to pad towards the alpha rock. Upon reaching the rock, he would bow his head to the fae before looking to Cajun and bowing his head to the male before stamping his paw in congratulations.
<`Raven> <Fianna> c/Fianna Pink +she was being mobbed! Her youngest sister was there too, and suddenly Fianna found her attention split between trying to keep the youngsters silent during a meeting.
<Cajun> cajun perked his ers as the the coal male listned to Kovas words to him he only shifted his gave when he saw the other male approaching and as he did and hearing this would be his new mentor cajun stood up on his fours once more and bowed and dnpped his head back to them “greetings Cwn I will look forwad to your wisdom and teachings” the coal brute waged then diped his head back to the Alpha smiling to her soflty before bringing his
<`Raven> frame about and giving a wruff chuff back to the others “I Thank you all for this and it is Great to be a part of a really wonderful family and home I am Cajun Son of Kane and Arcadia new accesment of the Wolfspirits “
* Rook Cajun’s advancement and his acceptance of the next steps were met with a firm paw stamp from his left and less dominate paw. It was worth the momentary sting of pain to place some weight upon the right shoulder. Had he spotted the rambunctious 2-year olds he would have certainly chuckled under his breath and thanked the fates that they chose to bother Fianna rather than him.

*Ragaire

✩☾ Gasp! Jump-scare! The yearling was not particularly attentive. But, it was Leora! Oh, Leora, her awesome auntie! The pup wiggles like a flopping fish and she licks at Leora’s face. Her rump, however, stays glued to the ground, she was trying to at least pretend to be civilized and she definitely didn’t want to give up her seat nect to momma. It was now that she looks around at the other wolves. Hmm… lotsa new faces. The young fae looks around the clearing, her eyes snagging on particular wolf. Huh. Rugged-looking and peppered with scars. Her ears rotate outwards, he looked like trouble but also like adventure. She was curious now. ☽✩
*Foxfur tilts her head curiously as a young – maybe same-same age as her? – she-wolf scampers over and seems to take a bit of offense at Foxfur being so near Fianna. Ears flick backward as Foxfur processes this…then almost immediately becomes distracted by all the scents and sounds and happenings going on all around her. She pants happily, content to be here in the now-now and feeling warmly welcomed.
* Fern gave a congratulatory stop as well as the others. Another assessment, how fun! She knew Cajun had been here longer than her so maybe she would have to talk to him more often, no matter how intimidating he looked. The tension prevailed between Grimolf and herself, finally she gave just a little look, to see what he was doing, how he was acting.
* Rune did not know Cajun well, but the dark-coated brute seemed to be well acquainted with many of the pack members. When Kova says her mate’s name she noses the silver brute before he steps forward. Wagging her tail and stomping her paw when he is named mentor to Cajun. Her copper and amber eyes light up, proud of CwnAnnwn.
* Elvira After taking a long nap in the ancient forest, Elvira was almost taken aback from hearing a distant howl. “What the…” she mumbled, almost still in a dream-like trance. She looks over to Althea, who comes bounding into her sleepy eyesight. “Althea, did you hear that? Was it a howl? Which way was it?” she lifts her head up and tries to find some sort of sign of where the howl came from. Almost like a tidal wave, an assortment of scents come to her. “Why are there so many scents in the air? Is this like, some sort of meeting? Where is it?”
* Kova when Cwn approached and accepted his new charge, she smiled to the two. She would allow them to return back to their designated spots of comfort among the rest. As the others would offer their congratulations she would smile and perhaps just when Rook felt he was clear from bother, she would offer a low chuff for him. “Rook, please come forward” to the later of her words, she would
<Kova> offer him a chance and repreive at resting his injured visage. She noted Rune among the gathered but her hues turned still to Rook. Perhaps a softness would wash over her expression as she’d await for him to arrive.

*Grimolf watched the ceremony / still / not understanding what all the fuss was about ? This black brute was getting some sort of blessing ? “ Saskia. “ He turned to fully face her ; giving her a stern look. “ What on earth is going on ? “ He asked totally confused, he thought this was a lore night not some giant celebration. Then again, if Grimolf was actually paying attention and not causing mischief with his orbs, he’d have some clue of what was transpiring. ‘ Gods… ‘ Grimolf grimaced at the sight of the 2 years old jumping and playing around Fianna. What was he even looking at ? He was getting second hand embarrassment just being near them.
*CwnAnnwn He bowed his head once more to Kova as she named him mentor to Cajun before he turned to the male and smiled, “I look forward to imparting what wisdom and knowledge I can.” With that, he would nod to the male before making his way back towards his mate, settling beside her with a tender nuzzle and tail wag.
*Panther Saskia had settled beside a newcomer, a newcomer that didn’t seem to like Ophaelos or Fern. He glanced back towards Saskia, dipping his head to Grimolf before. “Hello, my dear.” He offered in a hushed tone. He nuzzled into her, imparting his scent on her once more. His gaze averted towards Kova and Cajun when the brute had been called up, listening for a response and watching the brute, he smiled. He glanced to CwnAnnwn, a grin on his maw, he dipped his head as the brute padded forth and was named Cajun’s mentor. Panther offered a firm stamp of his paw for the advancement. He looked to Grimolf as he spoke, he would be sure to greet the brute officially after the meeting, for now he would let Saskia handle it as he wasn’t about to disrupt a meeting for this foul brute.
* Cajun after giving one more dip of his head and muzzle to everyone and back to kova he waged once then returned to where hed been seated before and the big brute reswung himself about and settled once more taking a look aorund him on left and right as well as behind before facing forward again shifting his front paws some
* Rook No sooner had he stamped his paw than he then listened to his name being called by Kova. He thought much more quickly than his paws carried him on what would spark her to call his name. Even and deliberate pad falls would hopefully mask enough of the stubborn pain on his right shoulder. “Yes, Alpha?” he asked when he was respectfully close at the foot of the stone. He remained standing for a moment…
* Althea perked her ears up, moving her head around to take in the scents that Elvira mentioned. The howl pierced through the dream that she was having, but the dream was more of a nightmare and it was a blessing in disguise. “It is most definitely that pack…” Althea got up and shook the leaves from her back. “Vira, I’m nervous. The leader did not in that direction last time we spoke to her.” Althea began to pad towards a flat looking area that was peaking through the trees. “Maybe we could sneak a peak”
* Fianna gladly stamped her own paw for Cajun now being an assessment. Then, as if she could feel the momentary brush of his eyes Fianna turned her own head to pin Grimolf with a long look. He still looked as grumpy as ever, and if she noticed the say he looked at Fern her fur would bristle enough that Grim would see it in her eyes. Before the look would become too hot however. She would release him from.her attention as her brother was called forward. Ears perked quickly. What ho?
* <Leora> she would giggle a gain before she’d straighten up and nudge Ragaire gently. Oh she had some fun stories to share for sure, but what drew her attention now was her brother. She perked her ears forward quickly and wondered what it was for.
* Saskia would stomp her paw lightly into the ground as Cajun was named an assessment. She thought back to their first encounters as well as their time at the Hidden Falls together. They’d grown close, even if he was absent sometimes. Grimolf’s question likely would’ve been corrected by another wolf, but Saskia was too well-tempered to be upset. She’d smile his way and lean over, despite his stern look. “It’s a meeting, where Kova brings up-rankings, ceremonies, and much more to the pack.” She’d whisper, quietly. She’d then listen as Rook got called forwards, and Saskia would curious as to what for? She’d perk her ears and quietly observe. In her silence, the faint scent of the two new females Kova told her about came into her snout. She looked around for its origins, but sadly couldn’t see them yet.
<Kova> when Rook settled just at the base, there would be a softness but welcome to her expression. A moment more and she’d address the rest of the pack with her gaze then returned it to Rook. “It is known in the long lineages of this pack, that there has always been one to keep the lore and memories of not just themselves, but for the pack. To orchestrate the sharing of story, and to be it’s dedicated keeper. This role was given to only a particular few, as the history was told to me.” she’d allow her words to weave among the rest and to him. “It was the role of Lore Keeper. A position of the pack I think is best suited to your character and knowledge. You are a true master of your trade and to that note, I would like to ask if you would honor the pack by accepting the role and rank of Lore Master of WolfSpirits.”
* Elvira let out a long sigh and the two headed toward the clearing. “Don’t be nervous until we have to be… Actually, maybe we should be nervous… but maybe that nice wolf will be there! Fern right?” Elvira looked toward the trees, then tried to keep the mood up for Althea. Elvira took off running toward the Clearing. Running cleared her head of the nerves, and Althea took off running after her. “Last one there is a rotten egg!”

* Ragaire could hear thoughts, she’d scoff. She was not happy about Foxfur clinigng to her momma, but what could you do. She glances at her momma, whose prickly fur was tickling her own coat. Yikes, what was under her skin? Oh. She follows the momma’s gaze to the black wolf, the same one she’d been staring at not too long ago. Ragaire was not subtle, so, she was staring. Her amber eyes were boring holes into Grimolf. They weren’t mean eyes or hostile eyes, but man, they were intense. The yearling was not subtle, she was clueless. What was his dealio? What on earth would have her momma bristled like that. Saskia seemed just fine and she was right next. Maybe he smelled funny? Was that it? Momma’s sharp guardian nose thought he was stinky? Hmm… Saskia was gonna have to get a much better sniffer if she was gonna be a guardian then, huh? ☽✩
* Rune A new rank, one that Rune had not heard of in her time with the WolfSpirits. Who better than Rook, the brute who bartered in stories. The pack had more history than Rune could know, but hoped it would be well preserved.

<Calder> as everything seemed to be happening as it would, he would divert his attention from the meeting to his daughter to whom he nosed fondly along her crown to. Before his eyes fell then to Rook as he was seated at the base of the stone. He couldn’t think of any other wolf suited for the role, and smiled in the wake of the advancements for Cajun to.
* Leora her eyes where transfixed on the conversation. Oh this was interesting. Perhaps she didn’t see poor Ragaire making bad juju eyes at Grim? She hadn’t met him, either. Was there some tea to spill here? The fae seemed occupied at the proceedings to notice… yet.

*Grimwolf “You call this a meeting ? “ He replied not wasting his time with whispering. Grimolf had the nerve to slowly shake his head at Fianna making his disapproval known to the Fae. He was truly regretting every. single. second. of this meeting/ceremony/lore night. He once again caught, a glimpse of Fern’s persistent gaze turning the full might of his distaste upon her with another angry stare ! In the corner of his orbs, he caught another glimpse of Ragaire also staring at him. That angry stare diverted from Fern upwards the younger wolf hoping it would scare her away. ( Stop staring at me, pup. )
*Cajun twitched his ears as he listned to some of the conversations that huddled in both the back and the forground they were interesting and the coal brute thought on them and sought deeper into some of thier meanings
* Rook It had been a long time since his return to the fold and a longer time still that he truly felt as though roots were cutting through the stone path he frequently found himself wandering upon. At the question, he would look first to Kova and then to his two sisters, Fianna and Leora. “Their story…”he said, turning back to address Kova. “Their story is mine…I am but a student of knowledge ‘yond the fore’, and of our memory on this and nearby shore. I am but a seeker of knowledge that is cade or of wild secrets in which the truth is braid. A servant to a hymn now whispered separately, in its solemn sounding “I” am shown to be “we.” Story for a story and a truth for a truth…memory is unending, ‘long as I’m long of tooth. I am but a student of knowledge ‘yond the fore’, keeper of forgotten and keeper of the lore…” he said in his narrative tones before dipping his nose and answering “I accept this task and privilege.”
* Fianna Ooo, Fianna was caught as well by the Alphess’ mention of bringing the Lore Keeper rank back. She had heard of it, but only in passing. It was a mantle that would well suit her brother, and she felt pride for him welling within her, her tail beginning to sway at his words. When a pair of new faes zoomed into the clearing, one of.them yelling like a feind, Fianna would be on her feet in a blink, turning to stare at them, her nose twitching as she matched these scents to.those that she had followed earlier. She would quietly leave her spot, taking her rank.seriously enough to head off the two faes quietly before before they interruptes the meeting further. She would.chuff to them both, her stance clearly indicating they should both make their way toward her, before reachimf the other’s.

* Cajun gave a stamp of his paw as rook was named the story and lore keeper the coal brute smiled admiraly and diped his head and muzzle to them respectfully as they took on the role which was quite one to be had

* CwnAnnwn Settled beside his mate, he listened as Rook had been called up and Kova offered him the choice to accept the role of Lore Master of WolfSpirits, a role he had never heard of in the past, though he did not know if it existed when his father joined the pack.
* Fianna would not have missed Grimolf’s look, nor the look he sent her own daughter, and her ire would rise.. Like an ember furled to.life. He had not learned his lesson as he ought to.have. Meetings were not a place to.meet out justice however, unless danger was offered. And so Fianna would tuck away her knowledge of this breach, until it could be tended to with the flame it deserved.

<Kova> there would be an expression of admiration and humble attributes that fell across her features. A respect and understanding to the intricate narration of his words. How soft, eloquant and perfect, she thought. No better role suited. There would be a light swing of her tail before it stilled behind her and a humble nod given in kind. “Then I would like to have the honor and privillage, to
<Kova> name you, Rook, Lore Master of WolfSpirits. Keeper of memory, and sharing of tale.” she would rise her paw up and gently placed it to the stone, before her head drew back and she’d offer a howl in honor of the rank given to the son of the Mean Oiche.
*Ragaire Oh ho ho! That stinker couldn’t scare her, she had her momma! Ragiare had been born and raised in the safety and comfort of the WolfSpirits territory. There was not a scratch on her, never a limp in her step despite her recklessness. Thus, this beat-up brute intruiged her. She did not pick up on the brute’s wish to not be perceived and, so, she would continue to inspect him from across the meeting. He didn’t seem too much older than her. Goodness, what kinda trouble had he gotten himself into? Well, luckily for him, he had found the bestest place ever! Ooop… well this wasn’t good. When her momma rises to her paws and slips away fom the meeting, Ragaire looks after her with her ears splayed out to the side. Where was she going. Ragaire casts a glance out of the side of her eye at Grimolf. Uh oh. She liked that stinker a lot less with her momma walking away.
* Elvira After running for 15 minutes straight, Elvira finally slowed her pace as the two entered The Clearing. The nerves finally began to slightly sink in again, and she stopped to look up at the sky. “Althea…. are you nervous?” she sighs. “The last time we saw wolves from this pack they weren’t too…. welcoming” she thinks, reminiscing on their interaction with Rook a few days before. “This is the first time I’ve seen this many wolves since I was a baby. I just hope they like us, you know? This feels like a big step for both of us.
Fern would tilt her head at the sound of an interesting rank she had never heard of, though the description matched up pretty well with Rook’s jibbly-jumbly poetic way of speech. She didn’t know him well enough to tell if he was ‘The Master of Lore’ but he was definitely the master of weird words, and she would give a stomp of her paw for that. Fern would continue looking over to Grimolf and she would catch his angry stare as well as when it shifted to the yearling Ragaire. She so badly didn’t want to fuel the fire but what gave him the right to stare at her, ney, to Ragaire as well, like that. Wasn’t he the one without rank here?? She couldn’t keep her eyes on him for now, even if it felt unjust what he was doing, this was a meeting and she wouldn’t do anything about his demeanor now
* Panther As much as he had been trying not to say anything, unfortunately he failed. He huffed, glaring at Grimolf. “While a pack meeting goes on, would you try to keep your voice down and be respectful?” He spat, a growl rising in his throat. It would seem as though he didn’t like the pack’s staring, granted eye contact could be seen as a challenge, Panther wouldn’t divert his gaze unless the brute agreed to keep his mouth shut. An ear was turned to the meeting as it continued, Kova naming Rook ‘Lore Keeper’ – A rank he didn’t know Wolfspirits had, but was very fitting for the dark brute.
* Saskia wanted to recognize the ceremony of naming at hand, but the disruptions were close and thin. At the very least, she was able to stamp her paw before Kova howled. Grimolf’s words would draw an unfavorable look from Saskia’s expression. She bit her tongue and glared at Grimolf as he raised his voice above a whisper, and clearly showed no care about what was tradition in their home. It took everything in her to keep from baring her teeth to the brute. And then… oof! He glared at the worst possible wolf other than the Alpha herself. Fianna’s daughter… She would gulp and visibly slink into her frame, scooting closer to her court in secondhand fear. She’d look back towards Kova and the ceremony and try to avoid what was likely about to happen. No fuel added to the flames from Saskia!
* Ophaelos would hear the subtle growl leaving Panther’s throat. When he looks over, he would see the black male aiming it at Grim, before turning his attention back to the meeting. A smile would be kept at bay to avoid adding fuel to the kindling fire—perhaps tonight, Grimolf would get his comeuppance… and who better than Ophaelos’ favorite hunter to give it to him! Though, what warranted that growl, he’d wonder? He wouldn’t have caught the glares nor heard the conversations being exchanged by the group. Instead, his sight and focus would be on Rook, who was named a fine rank. He’d stamp his paw, a grin being shot at the brute from where he sat.
* Althea looked ahead and saw a tawny looking wolf standing strongly across the clearing. “Ummmmm….. Uhhhhh… Maybe I should have been so loud.” Althea made eye contact with the strong wolf, who had stunning eyes. “I uhhhh… Maybe we should go talk to them before going any further?” The fur on her back stood up.
* Rune With so many wolves the Clearing was dynamic. Rune stamps her paw as Rook is named Lore Keeper, a ranked wolf such as herself. She then allows her attention to drift, watching Fianna depart from the group to intercept a pair of wolves. Their scents were new to Rune, but she could not tell if they had been greeted by Fianna or any other wolf before. It was then that Rune noticed Ragaire and Grimolf engaged in a staring contest. She had not yet met Grimolf and while his reputation did preceed him, the story had not yet made it to Rune’s ears. However, she’d try to keep her focus on Kova.
* Rook Lore Master? Not just a keeper, but a master of the lore? This was certainly beyond his wants and wishes; he treasured knowledge and now to be a master of its keeping made him giddy. He would dip his nose and recognize the muted response to his new rank as what it was. Lesser wolf of lesser heart would take it personally, but he was entrusted with much…even those that would rather ignore the proceedings or play daft to his metaphors for pettiness. He would be true to his station now, giving one paw stamp for himself and for his father who had instilled the yearning for knowledge above all before he dipped his nose to Kova and made his way back toward the place where he had approached.

LORE NIGHT

Saskia🍂
.·: ¨༺ The deadly looks from the Alphess was that of a dragon; it’s fires burning deep into her soul. When she retreated back to her square, Saskia would straighten her posture and look back to where Grimolf disappeared. She didn’t linger there for but a moment before turning back. When Kova asked whom would like to share first in the lore night, she would stand to her paws. “Not a story worthy of dreams, but a story all the same of truth!” She’d start, waving her tail behind her as she waited for a response. ༻¨ :·.
* Rook would feel the nudge of his sister and hear the howl offered by Cajun. He would, of course, dip his nose in thanks to the brute before looking to Leora as if to nudge her to be next in line. For now, a story would be potentially offered by Saskia.
* Calder his attention would have been split between all the happenings. Eyes careful, but welcome to each wolf who now gathered closer for the night of Lore. He was eager to hear the tellings from one to another. This was always his chance to learn more of the pack then ever.
* Kova when Saskia would offer to be the first to share, she gave a firm nod of her head and a welcoming expression, despite the simmering discharge of ire that still had yet to truly fleet her gaze. Not towards the fae of course, but in the tension slowly simmering away. “What say you, Lore Master, to Saskia opening for us?” she diverted her gaze to Rook with a light and curious expression.
* Rook Deep in the throes of quiet touches and well wishes in lieu of what was, he was further caught off guard by the question asked. He would look to Saskia intently as the first verse bearer, the keeper and seeker of the Song, to another. Would the bells toll? Would the bay of wrestles ocean churn on the fore? He likely couldn’t see, but he dipped his nose none-the-less. ”Tell a tale and may those who hear be the better for it.”
* Kova her hues fell then to Saskia as she would dip her nose, giving the fae the floor to begin her spun lore. Eager ears would perk as she would remain a top the rock for a moment, and when the blessing was given by Rook, she would slowly decend from the stone’s surface to be level with each wolf in kind. She did her best to seat herself in a manner that might help make a ‘circle’ of sorts. She would have found herself nearest Rook and Leora, with Fianna on the otherside. Eyes fell to Saskia now.

Saskia

Saskia🍂 — Today at 8:29 PM
.·: ¨༺ When Kova turned to ask the newly appointed Lore Master if Saskia could share, she looked to the stone brute with eager, yet nervous eyes. She’d never live up to his stories, but perhaps she could share new things.

When he looked towards her, she’d make contact with his equally stony hues and perhaps share a moment of the spinning thread that was sowing a tapestry. To his permission, if it was called such, she would wave her tail and look towards Fianna. “Many, many months ago, in the summer months of season… Kova drew a group of wolves together to journey North. Far, far and even farther we traveled until we came upon a winged, metal dragon! Of course, this dragon had been slain. Nearest the dragon, there was a structure I’d never seen before. Fianna and I entered this ruin. We moved careful, awaiting for a monster to JUMP out and grab us!-” She’d lunge forward and pretend to lash out in a jump scare towards those in front of her before slinking back into a calmer frame. Her next words would be hushed, and mystified.

“There – at the back of the structure – lied a peculiar object. Fianna approached it with caution, and she touched it! The object was not alive but it sung us a song. Hmm hmm hmmmm-” She’d hum softly like the haunting sounds that came from the object. “- It had petals that you could push under it and what not. I often wonder today what stories it could tell from it’s songs?” She’d conclude her story for now, looking at the others to see what they thought of her experiences, her eyes softly finding Fianna with a wink of jest. ༻¨ :·.

Fianna

Fianna would nod her thanks to their Lore Master and rise to all fours, letting her gaze travel out around them. Since her trek west she had been harboring something, a song of sorts, for just such a time as this. She would take a single moment to gather it in her mind before beginning. She would try and temper the cadence and lyric of her voice to that of the tale told in song, and it would rise and fall to enhance the telling as much as she could…

“A young brute moved through the forest
A legend of tooth and claw.
He heard a young fae singing
And followed the sound afar.
There he found the young fae,
..Who lives in the willow.

He called to her as she listened
From a ring of blossoms red
‘Come with me sylvan fae
Come from thy willow bed’
She looked at him serenely
And only shook her head.

‘See me now, a ray of light in the moondance
See me now, I cannot leave this place
Hear me now, a strain of song in the forest
Don’t ask me, to follow where you lead’

A young brute moved through the forest
With a flower on stem so green
His love had fur like fire
Her eyes an emerald sheen
She wrapped herself in beauty
So young and so serene.

He stood there under the willow
And he gave her the yellow bloom
‘Fae my heart you’ve captured
Oh I would be your mate’
She said she’d court him never
Nae, naught would be her fate…

‘See me now, a ray of light in the moondance
See me now, I cannot leave this place
Hear me now, a strain of song in the forest
Don’t ask me, to follow where you lead’

A young brute walked through the forest
With claws honed sharp and true
I’ll take the green-eyed fae
And she shall be my mate
With her I’ll raise my young pups
With her I’ll pass my days

The young fae mourned when she heard him-
When he said he’d set her free
He took his claws and used them
To bring down her ancient tree
‘Now your willow’s fallen
Now you belong to me’

‘See me now, a ray of light in the moondance
See me now, I cannot leave this place
Hear me now, a strain of song in the forest
Don’t ask me,
to follow where you lead’

She followed him out the forest, and collapsed upon the earth
Her paws had walked but a distance,
From the green land of her birth
She faded into a flower,
That would bloom for one bright eve
He could not take from the forest,
What was never meant to leave.”

Fianna’s voice would fade out near the end, leaving the tale-song on a haunting note as she settled back onto.her haunches.

Panther

Rook was correct, Panther’s hues held certainty, and maybe it wasn’t the story everyone expected, it was a story woven nonetheless. He dipped his muzzle to Rook in thanks, and smiled as he opened his maw to speak. “Not the night howl for one’s mate, nor the full moon instinct to howl. This wolf sings for forlorn fate, a lonesome breed on singular prowl.” A pause would be given as he looked around, a subtle smile on his maw. “Alone in their wild forest home. Guardians of woodland mystery, high upon timbered mountain tops, they roam deep shadows ranging free.” His gaze would be casted towards his court and Fianna once the word ‘Guardians’ was uttered. “Only the whisper of their silent paw prints, swift across valley and meadow home. Ancient witness to continental journey, wildlife warriors under starry dome. Darklight Monarchs in silken fur, royal sanction of Red, Brown, and Black. World renown majestic and noble, from east to north an awesome sight.” He offered his last words, concluding his poem. Once his story was concluded, he’d glance around the circle that had formed. “And that shall be my lore concluded.” He offered, allowing Rook to choose yet another wolf to speak.

Cajun

the big coal brute sensed it was his turn to share a tale to unfold cajun thought long on it but decided that he felt liking alot more to tell of a story of a first time out with a fellow packmate on a dup hunt rather then a start of his own thread of his journey thouggh the great woods and existance that would for sure be a well told ventute in itself but for anotehr time with that cajun stood up and bowed his head to everyone and walked to the mid circle and looked to all facing and meetign each ones gaze before settign down on his haunces to begin his venue of lore twitched his ears when he heard then saw the stomp of the fae Ferns paw and smiled he nodded to her and gave a soft wruff in admiration it made him happy she was eager to hear of his tale and then he felt all the more fitting of the lore he was about to instill upon the winds

cleared his throat then as he let both his mind and body relax some the big brute began his tale he looked to each one as he began allowing his hues and bodys expressiosn to help soin the tale unfolding”twas a few moons ago not to olong after id done my first solo hunt there would be a big coal brute who had a young browm fae with him named saskia “canu smiled over saskias directiona moment” the big brute had eben starting out on a hunt when she aprached him and askwed if she could join there was excitemtn and f light of anticipation in the other wolfs eyes which made the coal male perk admiraly back to her:

walked a few steped a moemnmt and resteaed as he got caught in the moment for a moment of reliving that venture by the two “he smiled and thogh more he looed to the ones listening ‘that night was pure well it startedn out that way anyhow the bruten soflty chuckled the moomn shone down on eachs coat and form making the night dew that clingd on each of their coats l sparke like how the stars twinkle above in the night sky a waters run sounds heard in the distance while the two trod along its banks in search of their quary a Beaver.! though unknogst to neither this one would give the two a sure run for thier paws money and work a night they would rember with a few bumps and bruises

”the two made thier way trekking finally spoting thier quarry, Cajun was the one that made the first strike the brute thankfully landed one and that beaver went asounding back up agaisnt the bank he heald it distracted at bay while his hunting artner saskia made her move the fae moved in with the swiftness of an eagle and making a hold with jaws that held firmer then the hardest stone that might be found. flexed his own paws as he recalled the tale it made him feel like the brute was right there it happening all over again he felt his fur and muscles tingle a little that was part of gthe thrill of a Hunt1 when you chase down and face off with your quarry at last cajun cont with his takle he looked to saskia moment seeing her reation and recolection to the event. gave a soft chuckle then he lifted a paw up a moment as he looked to some of the even more youthful group that might have been listening “But never Ever..Underesimate your prey for once you do that can put you in set for much Dismay ..and a few suprises” the coal brute said while turning his head to sone side lookign off to soemoen who may or may not be there. then it was about that time that things started taking a turn for thee worse as both wolves of the hunting dup were caught Completly off guard the big brute stood up and he paced some in front of everyone back and forth withaw look trying to ad to the suspense and happenings “That darn pesky beaver had a few tricks of his own!” why before either wolf knew it that critetr when the bit coal bruet tried to attack they moved to the side and
<`Raven> rooled back over landing a hard nab Right on the tip of his coal muzzle! causing the brute to tuble back into the water, his hunting partner saskia saw that gre4at falter and rushed to the retaliation But that beaver wasnt done he had alot more that he had hidden and he was about to show that he was alot more then a log chopper
<`Raven> <Cajun> heard a paw stamping and lifted up his gaze and head looking over catching sigfht of the alpha Kova doing the stamping the bri brute smiled then got set to end the tale he shifted his paws and paced back to the other side of the group
<`Raven> <Rook> c/Rook Story ðŸ“– Wise words for every occasion; never underestimate your prey. He too would give a firm stamp of his paw only after Cajun had finished or had he? ”I’d like to know if you both caught the beaver or not! You must not leave the tale at this end.” Only if Cajun wanted to spill the beans would the Lore Master bade him. If Cajun was truly done, then he would let the end of the tale rest for another time.
”saski made her move and i say that cajun was quite impressed by how the young fae had taken to hunting and her determnatiion in trying to land a good meal though that night it just want going to be the luck of the draw for either of them, the big brute watched a splashm of water as teh fae locked on her jaws to the critetr and it tumbled into the water with her, saskia was trying to regain her footing but wasnlt able to as that narly
<`Raven> pesky beaer came up and nabbed her on one of her legs causing her to falter it finaly became too much after the injurues theat both wolves had to just :call it and that was that
<`Raven> <Cajun> both then walked with limps to a spot to rest and it woule be a night neiher would ever soon forget a lesson learned neverr get over awnxious and never under esitamem but tttthe big coal male was proud to have been on the hunt none theles s with saskia it had been hism first duo effort and with that cajun bowed and returned to his seat after gathering everyones expressions

Ophaelos

Ophaelos would smile at Cajun’s story, stamping his paw and getting a, ‘Here, here!’ out in between everyone’s words. At Rook’s call upon him, his smile would not loosen, instead tightening slightly. “I’m honored!” He would keep on his haunches, a comfortable seat as he looks around and takes everyone in. “Perhaps it is not so much of a story, rather than it is a re-telling of some of the festivities and rites my own pack had. Much like your Lore Nights and meetings, my pack was similar in values, but different practices. I thought telling everyone here about them would be appropriate, as you all are sharing your own rite with me.”

“As some few lucky wolves may already know, I hail from the Far, Far North. A place of eternal snow, no matter the season, surrounded by ice, glaciers, water, mountains, and islands. During the warmer times, a phenomenon of eternal day would take place and festivities would follow suit. My pack—Alesthane—charmingly named this time, ‘Miðnætur Sól,’ English for ‘Midnight Sun,’ as the rays of daylight would be apparent in times where it should be dark. It was a time to celebrate the fertile riches that would blossom across the tundra, rare for such a desolate place. Prey would multiply, herbs would grow, melting ice would allow for fishing opportunities, and many litters of pups would be had from the several established pairs. Festivities included hunting excursions and games, consisting of races, Paw-ball, and tag. My personal favorite of these activities would be sparring—where two wolves take part in a consensual fight to show off their strength and courage. Any injuries would be taken care of after the spar, but spars typically consisted of simply pinning an opponent rather than wounding them—ego’s aside,” he chuckles. “It was a bonding experience, especially for those who were eager to practice the way of the hunt on a target that wouldn’t fight back too hard.”

“Some chose to pray during this time, others simply enjoyed the sun on their faces and the plentiful resources the season brought. I typically was never one to pray, as I was too busy sparring and spending time with my family, namely my brother Eýr, and more importantly, the pack Oracle, an old and wise fae named As`shai, my paternal great-great-grandmother and founder of my pack.” He would pause, an image of so many faces lost to time coming to his mind, clearing just in time as he goes on to speak. “In contrast, when the colder months were upon the pack, an eternal night would take place. We called this ‘Snjó Tungl,’ which means ‘Snow Moon.’ In contrast to Miðnætur Sól, this was a sacred time. Prayer would be expected of everyone. Brilliant ribbons of color floated across the dark skies, lighting the tundra full of many hues that danced and waved like beads of water in an ocean. Snjó Tungl was dedicated to the wolves who walked before us, whose souls now wander the spiritual plane. Those who passed from normal causes ascended to the skies, and popular belief preached by Oracles would say their spirits take the form of the lights that wave in the night sky during Snjó Tungl. The brighter their glow, the more pleased the spirits were of the years happenings. To those whose lives were laid in battle, their spirits would ascend much further and deeper, traversing through the energy of these lights, into a realm revered as Valhǫll. An ancient word made of two terms. Valr: ‘the slain’ and Hǫll, for ‘hall.’ It is a separate afterlife for warriors and, only by being killed would one ascend here. Those who made it to Valhalla would be in a realm of sanctuary and feast on the flesh of a Muskox, slaughtered daily and made whole again each evening. This belief is how the Muskox came to be my pack sigil, an extremely sacred animal killed in times of Snjó Tungl only. When slaughtered, we as a pack would together chant an ancient prayer for the creature before eating to guide its spirit to Valhǫll. It is through prayer during such a sacred time that we honor their lives and those that exist in the lights of the painted sky. It was a time of rest, invocation, storytelling, and devotion. Fighting ceased, arguments resolved, and petty resentments were forgotten as everyone joined together to honor both the living and the deceased.”

He would look around, observing everyone’s faces and quiet, respectful demeanors before continuing. “Core values have always been dear to me. The land from which I hail is so different from the land we all currently are sitting in. Beliefs are different, society is different, and the lay of the land itself and its meanings are, too, different. I can see just by the way many of you treat the land we walk on, it holds meaning to everyone, unique to each individual, a feeling that is becoming familiar and stronger to me with each passing day. While my home has been lost to the sands—or, the snowflakes of time, its value and meaning have not. To be with you all, to grow from stranger to friend, or possibly even family eventually, is an honor that I feel very lucky to receive. I share only briefly in my culture tonight, as there is much to say. I just hope that, with time, I may hear stories of your own, from where you all hail, of deities you believe in, why you may not believe in anything, and so on,” he finishes, giving a warm smile to everyone watching. “Thank you for hearing my story… I keep it short, as to leave room for those here wanting more when the time comes to share again. I hope to share more with everyone in the future, both in future Lore Nights and outside of them. The stories and poems shared tonight were epic tales and I wish I could have been there to experience some of those myself.” He would pause for a moment, giving everyone a simper. “Perhaps I will share more of a story next time, instead of a re-telling of the core values of my pack. I sense this tight-knit family is set deep in its own spiritual ways and I thought it would be foolish to not share my own. Storytelling brings wolves close, but nothing beats having a common interest.” Ophaelos would wrap his words up, allowing everyone the time to savor what he says and have responses of their own, if there were any to be had. (aaaaand scene!)

Fern

Fern would find the eyes of Rook land on herself and she would take a deep breath in before sitting up taller, preparing to share what she had remembered of her old pack and their tales. “Well, the words I have are a bit more of a pup’s tale, as those were the favorite kind of stories that my pack told.” She would give a gentle smile, remembering those times. “I believe this story was called “The Lake From Above.”

She would start with one last breath in and prepare her story telling voice. “In the midst of an infinite, open field, three fae-pups were born. All three wondering day after day, what is up there in the sky that makes the limitless atmosphere so vast and vibrant? They soon hatched a plan to steal the wings of some neighboring birds, so each of them could seek out their questions together. And that they did. The first snatching the wings of an Eagle, the second grabbing the wings of a Vulture, and the last taking the wings of Goose. Indeed, they took their new found flight and went high, high into the air until the land below was barely visible, until they were at the top. One of the pups pawed at the almost ever flowing sky, and drip, drip, drip it went. Sending showers of rain down below. They looked around with confused visages, wondering what was holding the water up so high, only to see the spirits and ancestors of many kinds of birds, all using their feathery wings to keep the water aloft. They looked to the pups, first with welcoming faces until they saw the wings of their fallen avian comrades that had been wrongly stolen. They were all horrified of this injustice and cast the pups down, now without their wings. But without the ability of flight how would they make it back down…?” She would chuckle a bit. “That’s where my father would end the story, but I think it’s pretty obvious what happened.” Her voice would trail off into a whisper.

Rook

The passage of time throughout the night would be such that the high heavens would cast a filtered light through passing snow-laden clouds and upon the wolves below. When time had come for him to tell a tale, he would do so by first looking to the night’s sky and calling out.

“Ar aird! Ar aird! Critheann craobhacha an locha san oíche agus solas airgid faoi bhláth i measc a dhuilleog.”
His voice would trail at the last and mimic the trembling of the leaves and branches for which his father’s tongue spoke. He then continued the tale while passing his gaze to each wolf in a thoughtful and deliberate manner.

“Look to the sky and see how the branches of ill-fated lovers cross Loch Oíche. Watch as the silver light trembles above a broken veil…”

“Shortly after the “starfall” of a tale before this, the night’s sky shown with fledgling argent light scattered across a darkened lake that still, in part, resides above us. Upon the fields beneath this primordial sky, love blossomed, and bonds were forged between the kin of stone and the kin of the stars such that the richness and depth of the first Mean Oíche were like roots unbroken…or almost unbroken.”

His tones mimicked those of his father’s telling that in sorrow and in sadness one might still find strength to overcome…

“Joy and peace were not always a certainty in the fledgling days of my ancient kin. The Great Song and the seeds that fruited from it were then as they are now—memories that are scattered in the tones of a melody we each hold part of… a story for another night. The wolf kin of ash, the Olc, however, still remained and toiled in evil deeds of olden days. Fierce were the waning days of the Olc, but even in their demise they encroached upon the lands of the Mean Oíche.”

While he spoke, he gathered upon the edge of the story circle a ridge of snow that served as facsimile to the range of his ancestral home. Once he spoke of the fearsome Olc, he would blow loose snow over top the ridge and watch as the dusting of snow clung to the air like the ash of the Olc would have. Here, at this part of the tale, he would look to Kova with a lingering gaze before he then looked between Fianna and Calder, Panther and Saskia, Rune and Cwn….

” Love burns wild in the hearts of young mates, and two such wolves of the Mean Oíche were on the fields of battle when the Olc descended upon the north. Smoke and ash filled the air and their lungs; yet, they fought from muted dawn to a burning dusk in which the great fire in the sky was painted with the blood of the fallen Olc. So many Olc died that Balor, the Baleful, Alpha of their twisted lot finally descended upon the fray, and in twilight slayed the lovers upon the fields of the Nathaír. There, Balor left them where they died, on opposite sides of the River Nathaír. ”

Again, Rook drew upon the canvas of snow, and in that drawing he carved the passage of the River Nathaír like a braid upon a untamed landscape. When he told of the lover’s death, he placed a pawprint on either side of the river and let his voice purposefully tremble like the lonesome call of a babbling brook against winter’s ice.

“Dwindled in number, the Olc remained upon the fertile plains of the River Nathaír and pressed their invasion no farther. Winter came and with it mournful snow draped atop the fallen lovers, but love would not forget. In the spring, two saplings sprouted where both lovers had fallen, and by summer stout trees with branches filled with silver leaves reached nearly across the river’s width. The Olc, never remiss in their evil, dug and dug until the trees were felled and carried down the river’s course. The next spring, however, two new saplings sprouted, and the summer saw two stout trees of silver leaves that yearned to touch across the river’s width. ”

Rook would draw as best he could upon the snowy canvas to long gentle branches that would almost touch across the river’s course…

Rook would cross out the paw prints and the branches crossing the river, smoothing over the snowy surface before continuing his tale in remorseful tones.

“Evil but not foolish, Balor knew that these two lovers were a thing he could not abide, and so ordered that the trees be felled again and one of the lover’s bones be carried across the far horizon. Balor knew he would relish in the lonely growth of the one tree, thinking that no two trees would grow across the expanse of the plains. ”

Again, Rook would would use his props to full effect, stamping into the snow and obliterating the trees before recreating the scene once more. Here, his tone turned away from the remorse and to the promise of hope…of spring in the coldest of nights. He would turn his shifting gaze from those of the circle back to the night’s sky and begin with a whisper that grew to a trembling roar

“Ar aird…AR AIRD!!! Ní laghdaítear solas na nduilleog airgid le teacht na gréine”

“High have the silver leaves grown, such that the dawning of the sun and the fury of hope fulfilled does not diminish their light…Woe be to those in the path of the long paw…”

He spoke now in a muted half whisper that would still be heard. Finally, he looked to the drawing of the River Nathaír and to his ancestral home before speaking in the tones of finality….

“Winter came and so did spring, but no sapling grew, and no stout tree of silver leaves took root upon the banks of the River Nathaír for the years that the Olc occupied the north. Finally, in the autumn of the Olc’s time, the sons and daughters of the Mean Oíche stormed the plains of the Nathaír to reclaim the land that was theirs. Such a battle was not had since the time of the Great Song, and I will not sing of that part now…no, we press on to the end of the tale and to the time of Lugh of the long paw. Lugh, Alpha of the Mean Oíche, met Balor upon the fields of the Nathaír and such was their fight that all that came close were trampled into the ground and perished.”

Rook would stamp out the scene he had created in a flash of unbridled pantomimed fury, sweeping away the “ash” of the Olc and the memory of the trees before seeming to relent in the destruction. His shoulders sunk and he fell to the earth like one defeated. There, he huffed deeply and looked to the sky before finally speaking the end of the tale.

” When, at last, Balor was felled, he looked up with his baleful eyes at the night sky and to two trees of silver leaves outstretched across Loch Oíche and across the horizon that would separate them no longer. So it was that Balor died seeing what we see now…two trees adorned in silver leaves kindled by the love of two wolves that would never be separated again.”

Pack Meeting #211

Meeting Notes

February 9th, 2023

Attendance:

@ApacheWolf
@Kova
@Rook
@Shakira
@Sanek
@Panther
@Rune
@Fianna
%Sasika
%CwnAnnwn
%Calder

+Fern +Code +Cajun +Ophaelos
Leora Foxfur Grimwolf

Pack Meeting Begins