The evening of February 12th, 2024, the pack had been coming across random trails and tracks, mostly tracked my Quince. Rook and Quince investigated which ensued with a fight off of a brute naked Darko. A valiant fight was had by both Quince and Rook. Quince threw himself as at the intruding wolf to protect Rook and lost his life.
The pack mourns the loss of one of their own, Quince. | Log
Azouf, Cairdeas, Leora, Maeve, Nox, Kionna, Anfir, Kallik
* Kova the evening would continue to project onwards with it’s beautiful colros of a falling sun. It didn’t take very long for darkness to fall over them. She would have paused to look upon the sky and those intricate colors before she would continue on towards the Alphas stone. She would’ve given a chuff, a greeting to those wolves present, before she would hop up the stone and make her way to the edge. Here she would let loose a low (and appropriately timed) howl.
Awoooooo!! A meeting would be called!
* Nox His tail wagged harder behind him as his questions were answered, and with much joy it would seem. Nox was happy to hear that Quince enjoyed the tournament. It was certainly a sight to see with all of the wolves having been in a flurry trying to attack and defend. As Quince asked Cairdeas of how he liked the tournament, his ears perked, listening to the words the pup had to offer in response.
It would be no sooner that he was about to extend the conversation that he heard Kova’s howl. He would turn to look in the direction of the sound before looking back to Cairdeas and Quince. “Oh, I think something’s happening. We should probably all head over.” His tail wagged as he waited for the two to accompany him to the alpha’s stone. Once he made it over, he would take a seat in a spot where he could clearly see the Alphess.
* Cairdeas had followed after Quince and Nox enjoying their company till from the stone a song erupted. The ypung male excited ran about both Nox and Quince telling them to join him. He was sure this was the proposed hunt. He had no idea a meeting was taking place.
* Calder the brute would’ve turned an ear to the sound of a howl. He turned then to see Kova upon the stone in the distance. He’d swing his tail ever so lightly before dipping his head and making his way over. His eyes scanned quickly for his family, but didn’t see them so he seated somewhat towards the fringe.
* Quince The brute was glad to hear the pup’s answer as he spoke. How could he not be impressed? He surmised, feeling proud of Cairdeas. When a howl rang through the clearing from the Alpha’s stone, Quince wondered if a meeting was about to take place. With both the excitement of Cairdeas and the words of Nox, Quince would accompany the two younger brutes to the stone to attend the gathering. He’d find a nice spot between the two to sit down and listen, awaiting to see what words the alphess had to say as she stood atop the stone.
* Maeve Tucked once more in the shade of a mighty pine, young Maeve had been sleeping solidly. Perhaps tuckered out from the sparring a couple nights ago, or perhaps simply just extra sleepy this time of year the fae would only be stirred by the sound of an Awoo on the wind! The voice of Kova, and a call for a meeting at the Alpha’s Stone no less? She’d have been a little ways west of the clearing’s edge and would emerge from her resting place to mosey inward toward the clearing and toward the Alpha’s stone. She’d take note of the figures within and the scents offered on the wind for who else might be around for this meeting!
* Kionna listened to Rook’s words closely, holding each syllable with weight. She didn’t mind the brief introduction, in fact it was welcomed. The fae wasn’t the best at holding conversation. As soon as he began to leave, she heard the voice of Kova dance in the air. It felt important. Kionna pulled herself to her paws and made her way back to the stone where her day’s adventures started. She was mindful to be close enough to hear and participate in what was happening, but she kept her distance from most of the group. Unsure where she stood, yet.
* Panther Already having been near the alpha stone, he would’ve settled on his haunches when he noticed Kova approaching and leaping onto the stone, the howl all the more reason to be settled before anyone else reached the stone. A calm gaze would settle on the alphess, eager to hear what may transpire at this meeting.
* Grimolf A howl ❓ Perhaps that hunt could be put on hold for the time being with the scarred brute’s attention drawn to Kova’s howl . What could be so important that the Alpha was howling for the pack , could it be a pack meeting ❓
* Anfir Alright, alright, alright…So it looked like this neither self-described nor externally described miscreant had somehow managed to misbehave himself long enough to seem as though he was not disobeying his brother’s request. East, schmeast! There wasn’t anything coming out of that canyon save for that one thing, but who was counting that?! Almost to the chiming of fate’s clock, he’d venture into the clearing from the eastern forest and sit just a few paces from the tree line. Could he see Rook or maybe Fianna and the other goober, Leora? Well, he’d try and catch sight of the first, so that was seen being here on cue and behaving.
* Leora this goober was just coming into the clearing from the eastern woods! She was checking in on her awesome course. Mmhmm. Just as she entered, would she that goober coming in to?? IF so, then she would no doubt make her way over to him with stompy type paws. Where was he and how has he been!? He’d disappeared for a while and her curious but inquisitive expression would no doubt project that. She’d flop down beside him if he would have seated himself. Nudge his shoulder, give him a look before looking to Kova and the meeting.
* Mysticrain having stayed putafter most have probably wandered off for various reasons she now turns her attention towards the howling kova and quickly scrambles to her paws before padding to within hearing range but making sure to stay to the back of those gathering around.
* Rook would only need to divert a few paces to follow after the gathering group near his mate and the Alpha’s rock. From this northern trek, he’d circle about to the west and take a seat along the southwest edge of the gathered nearest the stone. Just what his mate had in store was mostly news to him. In the last few moments of down time, he’d scan the few wolves still gathering and likely see Redwing off in the distance. So, he had listened after all?
* Kova waiting just enough time for those to gather, she would give a nod to each wolf present. To the members she looked at first, then to the assessments that where there, then to her mate. She smiled softly in his direction before turning to face the rest. So many in attendance. She’d feel her heart swell softly before she would press her paws into the snow a top the stone and began. “Thank you all for heeding this call and for hosting our first pack meeting of the year.” her tail gave a few swings before stilling. “First, I would like to start this meeting with some advancements.” her eyes scanned those who where present. Quince was among those and so she’d chuff for him to come forward. “Quince, please come forward”
* Grimolf The scarred brute had just about made with Kova beginning her speech mentioning something about Quince ❓He’d briefly gaze around him at the other members before finding somewhere quiet to sit himself down . Grimolf deeply exhaled blinking slowly with his plain face expression listening and watching the ongoing meeting .
* Quince The brute would watch as different members of the pack made their way to the clearing, his ear rotating to each new set of pawsteps that drew near. What this meeting was about? The brute would soon find out as he sat in silence. It was only when he heard his name being called did his ears shoot forward. Feeling a bit nervous, the brute stood up and walked towards the Alpha’s stone. His amber eyes looked up at the alphess, waiting to hear what she had to say. Hopefully I’m not in trouble! Surely not, right? He thought to himself as his heart raced a bit.
* Kova her hues would fall to the light colored brute and when he approached, she dipped her head and smiled. “Quince, you’ve been a pledge with us for sometime. I call you before the stone now to see if you still desire to join Wolfspirits as your pack and home, and if so, the next step of your journey is to become an assessment. This step is most important for it is a time for you to learn, grow and develop your place here amongst WolfSpirits. You will be named a mentor, who will help shape and guide your journey here. They will speak for you when the time comes to become member. If you still desire to join this home, are you willing to uphold the ways, rules, creed and learn from each wolf as well as your mentor?”
* Cairdeas was seated next to Quince and he felt his tail swish as the male was called up. He had had many an adventure with him and thought it was fitting to see him called… but why was he called? Anxiety it was making his tail wave. As he heard the pronouncement the pup could barely contain himself, but had to as to not interupt Quince.
* Panther From what he could remember, Quince was a pledge, that was only confirmed by Kova’s words. Therefore from the previous meetings, Panther had an idea what was going on now that the brute had been called forth. He’d glance around, this meeting didn’t have many wolves who had gathered. He looked back towards Kova, listening intently as she spoke. What would Quince’s answer be? He also listened for the male’s words.
* Anfir Not…Fair. Just where were the scary bear of a sister and the energizer wolf of happiness at? Weren’t these things important rabble rousings? Didn’t people get little jingles to add after their names at these shindigs? Mr. Pumpernooten, hornswaggler of Yorkshire. He’d giggle at the thought before he was cut short by the drumbeat stampy paws of said energizer wolf of happiness all too late. Egads! Redwing would turn to look at this shoulder-bumping assailant with disbelief before tossing up a little bit of snow at her in his momentary retreat. He smelled of wood ash and looked like he had mistaken his muzzle for a #2 pencil because it still bore the scratches of an ermine and hidden rocks and limbs beneath the snows he smote that ermine’s ruins against. That was how one became a white wolf, right? Smoting things on snowy mountainsides?
* Kallik Startled awake, Kallik looked about, noticing a cluster of wolves at the high rock. assessment? she had overheard others speaking of it from time to time, was this it? She jumped to her paws and galloped to join the others, slowing as she neared.
* Quince As the alphess spoke, Quince felt slightly relieved. His nerves were replaced with a little bit of excitement. Was he ready to advance to an assessment? It only took a brief moment of thinking on Quince’s part before he gave Kova his answer. With a glint of determination in his eyes, Quince spoke loud and clear. “I have not changed my answer when I first pledged to WolfSpirits, and I don’t intend to go back now,” there was a short pause in his words as he inhaled. “I still desire to join your pack, and offer what I can to help you and your members. I will not break my promise to offer my loyalty to you and WolfSpirits- to continue upholding the pack rules and to do the best I can to serve you.” The brute politely bowed his head at the alphess, ready for the next step to becoming a member in WolfSpirits. Whatever tasks he had for him in the future, he’d make sure to complete them as best he could if the alphess allowed him to advance.
* Nox As Quince stepped forwards to heed the Alphess’ call, Nox’s tail would swish back and forth as the she-wolf spoke more. Could it be that he wanted to stay and become an assessment? That would be good on his part, to be in such a family where each member was seen to. He practically held his breath as he waited for the other male’s answer. He would be welcomed shortly with Quince’s response, allowing him to exhale. Nox was happy for his friend, who still wished to stay with the pack of WolfSpirits.
* Kova she held a confident gaze to Quince and to his answer. A strong and true answer. One she’d accept with a stomp of her paw. “As all have lay witness to Quince’s creed and journey to continue to join us” she would address the pack members, before turning back to Quince. “I name your mentor, Rook, Lore Master of Wolfspirits.” she would turn a moment to notion to her mate, then back to Quince. “And with your named mentor, I am proud to now name you Quince, Assessment to WolfSpirits.” her paw came up and stomped the stone firmly and placed well enough.
* Leora she gave a “wut” expression to her lost brother, Redwing’s appearance. She didn’t have a moment to really question it for now, but her hues did then turn back to Kova and the proceedings. Her big brother was mentioned and her ears perked. Oh! Quince was advancing! Her tail ushered happy swooshes n the snow, making tail angels, before bark chuffing to Quince when he was named the new assessment!!
* Rook His attention had long since turned to the proceedings of the meeting to notice much beyond the gathered wolves. Grimolf’s attendance would be one such exception that drew a curious gaze. Had his assessment found a token in which memory was kindled? It did not look like that, but with Grim, looks were sometimes deceiving. Quince’s call to answer Kova’s question would draw his attention back, and when his name was mentioned for another assessment, he almost felt bad for the lad. Despite the current passing rate of his “how to be a Wolfspirit member” course, he still felt happiness for Quince and would stomp his paw to the snowy ground below in congratulations.
* Kallik Reaching the others, Kallik felt happiness from the overheard words. Though she had not known Quince personally, she silently congratulation to the brute, and if he were to notice her gaze, he would find her dip her head to him (but being at the back of the group, it’d be a miracle if he saw her lol).
* Grimolf The scarred brute wasn’t massively interested in the ranking ceremony with his head finding it’s way into his paws that were stretched out in front of him . That token was still a mystery to the brute , but maybe this was his “ attempt “ at deciphering the Lore Master’s metaphor in the most enthusiastic way possible .
* Panther An assessment, Quince certainly deserved it. A glance would’ve been offered in Quince’s direction, a small smile on his maw. He’d offer his congratulations after the meeting, but he was happy for the brute nonetheless. He also noticed that Rook had been named Quince’s mentor, which added another wolf to the pile. Panther hoped Rook would have better luck with this one than the previous ones. Regardless, a stomp of his paw would be offered to Quince’s advancement.
* Quince The brute couldn’t help but wag his tail upon hearing Kova’s words. He was named an assessment after all! He gratefully dipped his head to Kova, silently vowing to do his best in his head. He went back to his spot between Cairdeas and Nox, nodding his head to Rook if he saw the brute among the crowd. Quince plopped his rear back down in his spot as his tail swished this way and that. This was definitely another big milestone in Quince’s life that the player had to document soon.
* Anfir Like a little buggy hopped up on light sources, Leora turned her attention away and recharged that happiness battery. Seriously, should he be this close to an obviously radioactive source of power? He’d look to her paws for any sign of geothermal hookup. Finding none and honestly not knowing what to look for he’d at least stamp his paw on the snow for Quince and the added jingle behind his name. Still… hornswaggler of Yorkshire sounded like a decently fun rank. He’d definitely feel sorry for Quince given his mentor, but that likely meant Rook wasn’t going to have the time to boss him around. He could finally search after -his- name now…not some fancy jingle.
* Kova as the congratulations would subside, she grinned and dipped her head to Quince, allowing him to make his way back towards the place he desired to seat himself around for the duration of the meeting. She’d then cast her eyes to the rest of the wolves who where present. There would be several new wolves among them.
“I would like to call any wolf who desires to join this pack, newly forged from the woods looking for a home…. Please, step up to the stone.”
* Quince Once his excitement had settled down, Quince would look between Nox and Kionna (if she were gathered by the stone). His eyes ultimately fell on Nox as he gave the brute a gentle nudge to the shoulder. He seemed enthusiastic about joining the pack, right? So maybe, the young brute would like to pledge?
Quince recalled back to the time when he first pledged. Saskia did the same gesture to him when it was time for Quince to pledge. Seeing as the fae wasn’t in the current crowd of wolves, he decided why not pass on that simple yet kind gesture to a younger generation?
* Grimolf A silent prayer would be spoken in his mind with Grimolf / hoping / they’d be no more long drawn out ceremonies . It was taxing on his patience , and he had very little in more recent times with him suffering so much in so little time . Although his / mood / was vile the brute mostly kept it to himself , it wasn’t the meeting that had brought on this foul mood , he was just like this in social settings . A / real / people’s person .
* Kallik’s heart began to race, a little uncertainty shadowing in her mind. am I doing this? yes. The fae began to slowly walk towards the stone, a little intimidated by the many wolves surrounding her. She hated being on the spotlight, but she wanted to join the pack, and so she would do so. Her eyes locked ahead, and she walked a little more confidently than before, excitement tingling in her paws!
* Cairdeas may have shoulder bumped Quince had he returned and quietly in soft chuffs as to not interupt he would say, “Good work Quince Assessment of Wolfspirits.” Then as he finished he watched curiously to see whom might pronounce a desire to join. Maybe some of the wolves he was afraid of might impress him by making it their hearts call and obligation.
* Nox He would let out a pitter-patter of his paws in congratulations to Quince, now assessment to WolfSpirits. When he came to sit back down beside him and Cairdeas, Nox would offer a quiet “Congratulations,” to Quince before turning back to Kova. Her talk of pledges struck some deja vu in his mind. Hadn’t she said something about coming up in the next meeting? Well now was his chance. Quince and seemed to be on the same track as he nudged Nox’s shoulder. The dark brute would nod to him before taking one step forward, and then another until he came to stop near the rock in front of the Alphess. He’d politely dip his head to the Alphess, unsure of if he was to wait for further instructions or not. Being the center of attention was not his forte.
* Kionna With all the excitement, Kionna found her tail swaying behind her and leaving a small imprint into the snow. She was happy for Quince and held no ill will from their previous exchanges. Kova’s next words caught her attention. With a hard swallow, loud enough to echo within her ears, the fae pulled herself to her paws once more. She was west of the group, toward the very back. As she rose to her feet, she gave herself a small shake to rid herself of any thoughts of talking herself out of her decision. Slowly, the she-wolf sauntered forward, weaving her way through the small mass of scattered wolf bodies. The walk was short. But to Kionna it felt much longer. The same nervous feeling of having many eyes on her made her skin prickle beneath her fur. As she neared Kova and the stone, the cocoa fae dipped her head in a silent greeting.
* Rook would most definitely be watching Quince as one gauging another’s response. Elation and happiness were to be expected and encouraged. Should Quince be in the throes of such emotion, then the mismatched gold and amber hues of his eyes would show a quiet understanding and measure of pride for the lad before his gaze turned elsewhere. He would catch up to his assessments after the meeting, and he would ascertain just how up creek Grim was in his search for metaphor or the real thing.
* Kova her eyes scanned the wolves who came into collection and as those who would seek to join, stepped up to the stone, she would dip her head and welcome them forward. She would wait a moment more to see if other wolves would approach, and when none did, she’d clear her throat and smile.
“Each of you stand before the stone of Wolfspirits, and I Kova, it’s Alpha, to request to join. I would ask this of you again, now before the pack as you see a good number of us, to pledge yourself to WolfSpirits. Do you, Kionna, Kallik, and Nox are willing to pad the journey of a Pledge? This time is a time for you to know your heart and know your spirit and if it truly belongs with us. As a pledge you will learn the basics of our fold.”
* Calder the brute would’ve given a stomp of his paw and a nod to Quince’s direction. He grinned to the lad and was proud of him and of his acheivements thusfar. He would be happy to see him into the fold soon. He’d look now to the three wolves, all new, approach.
* Leora she would give another shove-nudge to Redwing before she would continue to look upon the proceedings. Her tail ushered a happy swing and wave as she watched allll the new wolves approach! So many! She would feel her heart gently swell with anticipation.
* Kionna The comforting gaze from the alphess reassured Kionna. Despite only meeting the day prior, she found the older fae comforting to be around. As Kova spoke, the she-wolf’s ears perked forward, taking in what she had to say. Kionna waited a moment before speaking, wanting them to settle in before fully settling on her decision.
“I am willing to pledge myself to you and the WolfSpirit Pack, alphess.” She surprised herself with the confidence she held. “I’m eager to learn your ways and improve upon myself.”
* Kallik excitement fizzling in every hair of her pelt, dipped her head respectfully. “I am willing to learn your ways, and to become one of the pack”, she said, he voice crackling a bit from the embarissment of other wolves’ stares. Her tail swayed, and mind whirling, she locked her eyes on Kova, confidence and happiness spreading through her veins.
* Nox His ears were pointed in the direction of Kova, giving her his attention as to not worry himself with all of those behind him. Was he ready to pledge? He would nod his head once before he spoke, “Yes, I am willing. I would like to pledge to the pack my loyalty and servitude.” His heart would beat fast, nervousness and adrenaline pumping through his veins. He didn’t know what else he should say, so he just said what he’d felt.
* Panther Once Quince had been assessed and he returned to his spot, Panther would look to Kova again. He was curious to see if anyone would step up, and after a couple seconds it seemed a couple wolves did. First was Kallik, a wolf he hadn’t introduced himself to just yet. He would after this, he’d make sure of it. Then Kionna, his gaze would linger on her for a moment longer, and then he’d look to Nox. His gaze momentarily falling upon Kova again. Once again, he’d listen for their individual answers, curious. Kionna spoke first, surprising him almost. He’d look to Nox, and the other newcomer. The other female spoke up, his gaze settled upon Nox. His green orbs would then settle on Kova after the three spoke.
* Cairdeas Seeing the female up there that scared him eased his mind. Perhaps he had been too scared and was still a pup. He decided to let bygones be bygones and just apologize after the meeting. He was still apprehensive but he felt it might be the right call. He may have nudged Quince gently and emitted a very soft whispery chuff, “Stick want apologize to new wolf after meeting,” he said getting to the point, “will you come with me?” He hoped it would be all good now perhaps he would even offer his name first to show that he was being sincere
* Anfir A delightfully funny but hurtful joke came to him the moment the call came out to step forward and begin the process of joining, but he, in a rare moment of introspection thought upon just how hurtful that was and would not feign to step forward. Still, that goofy look of hope and joy on Leora’s face would have been funny to see. Instead, he remained where he was like one content to have just the same amount of syllables to his given name. He was rather jealous of his littermate for her achieving and finding the name by which the world would call her when all else was silent. Just how much happiness and joy did she have to spread for that, he wondered? Surely too much for his darker tastes.
* Kova as each wolf answered with their truest of tones, her gaze fell to each one and would assure to read their hues when they spoke their pledge. She gave a knowing smile, a grin, and a strong swing of her tail. “As all have lay witness to Nox, Kionna and Killiak’s pledge to the pack, then I would like to have the honor to now name you each, Pledge of WolfSpirits. May your journey be true, and truer to your hearts.” she grinned. “Welcome!” she would rise her paw up and stomp it to the stone for the three newest pledges!
* Quince The brute looked to Cairdeas, giving him a soft smile as he nodded to the pup. “I will,” he said in quiet tones, loud enough for the pup to hear. His attention would then turn back to the current meeting, his eyes focused on the three wolves whi stepped forward. Though he didn’t know Kallik or Kionna very well, and he was still getting to know Nox, the brute felt proud of the three newcomers who stepped up to pledge. It was definitely nerve racking to stand before a crowd, and especially, an alpha. Still, all three of them walked up to Kova to pledge their loyalty. Quince’s tail would sway, his paw stomping the snow below as he howled his congrats to the three after each were named pledges.
* Rain sits quietly at theback watching the proceedings with her usual silence. when the three wolves get to pledge at the same time she stamps firt with one frontt pawthen out of pure enthusiam bounces onto the other and lets out an ear piercing undulation gargly sounding screetch which isunnervingto say the least and instantlysilences the night life in the nearby trees
* Kionna exhaled a deep breath that she wasn’t aware she was holding to begin with. As the alphess’ words soaked in, all previous anxious thoughts melted away. Suddenly, Kionna didn’t mind the eyes on her. This was one step closer to her goal, to feeling like she belonged somewhere.
An odd sound caused her to turn her attention behind her, gaze falling on Rain. The fae wagged her tail and looked back at Kova, chuffing with gratitude.
“Thank you for accepting me, Alphess. I’ll do my best to show pledging me is worthwhile.”
* Cairdeas would jump up and down a couple of times and raise his snout likewise to Quince perpendicular to the skies as his song joined with any others. A story told in a sweet melody of songs woven together like a beautiful blanket. As he finished he would remain standing ready to follow what he felt his heart wanted him to do… Apologize. It was not going to be easy and the pup would have to do it in spite of his apprehension and anxiety but he had done harder things. He knew he could do it and did not need to alone because he had Quince.
* Rook Three new wolves would answer his mate’s call to step forward. When they answered the question posed to them, he would stamp his paw to the snow thrice; once for each newly named pledges. Their journey was just begining, but this night would be a good start.
* Kallik’s tail began to sway faster, the fae’s ears perked and forest green eyes sparkling. “thank you”, she whispered, and backed away slowly as self-conciousness began to creep back into her head. Being a loner, her existance in the middle of the crowd once again unnerved her and she more quickly backed out of the crowd to sit down and take in all that had happened recently.
* Nox Oh, thank heavens it’s over. He was pretty sure he hadn’t breathed since he’d spoken. He would wait as Kionna spoke, and likewise voice a thank you of his own. “Yes, thank you.” His ears would flick nervously still. Everyone’s attention was on him, and he wasn’t sure that was making this better. Although it was nice to hear the congregatory howls and paw stomps. Watching as the other wolves took a seat again, he would do the same. Once sat beside Quince again, he would let out a huff of air. He’d done the scary part.
* Grimolf Three new members , three more nuisances . Grimolf rose from his paws sitting up and feeling a yawn coming on . . . When was he this tired ❓it was amusing watching the new bloods getting all nervous and jumpy upon receiving their ranks , they were so naive and starry eyed . The scarred brute searched the gathered wolves for a few familiar faces : Cair , Rowan , and Rook . If he found them the scarred brute would plainly stare at them giving a small dip of his head before retuning his gaze back to the ground .
* Kova she would dip her head and smile with a warmth and admiration for the new spirits. She would offer them now the chance to return back to their place of rest before her hues fell towards the others. When Kionna offered her thanks, she smiled to the fae and dipped her nose.
Part 2
“Does anyone wish to add anything before I conclude tonight’s meeting?”
* Calder the brute would watch the three wolves approach and be named their newest pledges. He smiled and swung his tail happily behind him before he dipped his head an stomped a paw. He’d be keen to keep an eye on each, of course.
* Quince The grey and honey brute’s tail wagged as Nox took his seat. He’d give the dark pelted brute a grin, offering Nox his congrats. “I formally welcome you to WolfSpirits, Pledge.” Quince dipped his head to the newly named pledge, glad he chose to join the pack. Though he didn’t say it, Nox was starting to grow on the brute as he reminded Quince of his former self, and he was looking forward to spending more time with him as it wouldn’t hurt to make another friend.
* Kionna Quickly taking her leave, Kionna hustled back to her spot. As she passed Grim, she dipped her head in return before continuing.
* Rook would chuff to his mate as one that wished to add one note to the meeting. He would pad just a little forward and wait to be recognized before speaking.
* Kova her hues fell to her mate and she smiled, giving a dip of her head. “Please, come forward and share your thoughts.” She’d invite.
* Anfir Well, now that this was over, he’d move a little to stand aside his sister, Leora, and nudge his ashen, smelly frame to hers just to get a rise out of her. “Goober…” he’d add and look to his brother in dreaded anticipation of some long-winded sacrament or liturgical recounting of some esoteric story that would put him to sleep.
* Leora she narrowed her gaze to her ashen, found brother, before giving a :darkwolf_rage: expression! ” you..” she whispered. “but now that you are here, I need to ask something of you before you go rub against another dirty, smelly tree.”
* Rook would take those last few padfalls toward the stone and turn to face the others “If you are hungry both in body and hungry to start your journey with us, the means by which to fill your bellies and tell your tales in the hunt resides to the south.” He’d turn his gaze to his mate and dip his nose “By your leave, let us hunt.”
* Kova her hues fell to her mate and when he would invite the wolves collected, both new and experienced, to join in a hunt she grinned. She stomped her paw softly and let loose a few barks then a low howwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwlllll!
She wasn’t her youthful self anymore, so she’d not leap from the end of the stone, but instead would turn around and walk down it’s small slope, and leap off the smallest point. She’d brush her shoulder to her mate’s own and grin.
“Let us hunt!”
Meeting OOC Addition I wanted to send out a friendly reminder that for this year, we will be updating the site with some key rule changes. One of them is around LOAs ( Leave Of Absence).
Rank Reminder I will be updating the website to reflect this as well to add to the information on there, but I wanted to also add a note about ranks. With LOA changes, this year we’re also going to be wrangling in ranks a little tighter. Ranks are meant to give a role player a role within the pack. To try and ensure that ranks continue to hold their weight, and the wolves who hold them, we will be keen on ensuring those who are in rank will uphold that rank with activity. Once a wolf is in a rank, the expectation is to be active (when time allows of course), but know that LOA timelines also applies to Ranks. Especially ranks. Rank is an investment, and I plan to try and make more interactions this year with those ranks, to make it meaningful as well, but it also comes down to the RP’er to to make that commitment :).Cairdeas, Ceol, Raine, Maeve, Leora
*Kova she would press her paws beneath her, rising to then stretch a moment before collecting the information of who was present and who was still yet to be. The time would be now. She would have turned and strode to the Alpha’s stone there leaping to the base and walking up. She stood at the edge before pulling her head back and letting loose a low, deep howl. One that could carry further than most. A howl to gather has been called.
* Saskia Brown head would rise from her curled position and she would gruu at the sound of Kova’s howl. Standing, she shook the leaves and dirt from her pelt and squeezed out of the hollowed tree. Her paws would make quick work of ground as she began trekking back to the clearing, tongue hanging out of her parted jaws.
* Quince The brute flicked his ear, licking his chops as he looked towards the stone. The alphess had let out a howl, one that sounded important. Quince quickly dug a shallow grave to bury the rest of the hare carcass before padding on over to the stone. He made sure to lick away the rest of the blood on his muzzle before finding a spot nearby to sit and listen.
* Calder before he could begin explaining the tournament to his daughter, he nosed her when Kova’s howl reached them. “A gathering, come, let’s see what awaits” he smiled and nosed her crown before he’d rise up and start off to the clearing to. He would perk his ears to the arrival of many and his mate included. He chuffed warmly to her, moving over to greet her before seating himself.
* Rook Now, he had been under the impression that Calder was away from the stone and nearest the northern treeline, so that’ the impression he’d use in his responses to a gathering few wolves by him. He’d take the lead of his court’s howl and that of Calder, and he too would make his way back southwards to the alpha’s stone.
* Ceol Somewhere off in the southeastern woods lied a very lazy Ceol. The older pup had headed into the forest earlier that morning for some exploring time but had quickly decided that sleeping on this verrryy cozy patch of leaves tucked away between a few bushes was a much better way to spend his day!- but where did that day go? As his well rested amber eyes blinked open to gaze upwards through the bushy spruce trees he would definitely notice it wasn’t as early as he remembered it being..
Just as Ceol came to his senses, maybe his nose would pick up a few familiar scents drifting his way from afar? Not one, not two, -Uhh… But wayy too many wolves! What was all this for? Quickly, his question seemed to be answered when Kova’s calling howl caught his ears. The older pup was by far intrigued! With a flick of his tail and a stretch, Ceol skittered out of the forest and into the clearing quite swiftly, his ears forward and alert. Would his scanning amber eyes land upon the little gathered group? Looks fun to him! And without any hesitation, he picked up some youthful speed, bounding towards the Alpha stone’s direction through the chilly afternoon air.
* Klara Kapel ༻❁ Klara would turn her head at the long and melodic song behind her, ears pricked and tail wagging with uncertainty. When Calder would usher his daughter with him toward the stone, she’d quickly get up from her belly and trot behind them. She wanted to make sure she had a seat next to her favorites, after all! She had been to a few meetings before, but considering she was young and didn’t care all that much for what was happening in them, this would likely be the first meeting she’d truly pay attention to. If Calder and Maeve found their seats, she’d plant her rump right beside her brave friend! Golden eyes would search the clearing for the other pups. Would Ceol be around? Azouf? Cairdeas? Rain was small like them, was she a pup too? Whether she was or wasn’t, she’d still look around for her! ❁༺
* FiannaFianna would seek first the scent of her mate, suddenly wishing for the safety and joy of his pelt, and the company of his presence and she would see his frame among many as well as Leora and both seemed to converge, perhaps one after the other, and her brother following after. Warmth filled her and she’d chuff softly, taking her place before the stone and whenever Calder and Leora and Rook would near she would nuzzle each and her tail would sway as she settled beside them. Her gaze would find Maeve and Klara and she’d reach to nuzzle each of them fondly as well if they were parked nearby, a tongue darting out for a quick grooming. She would keep quiet for the proceedings would already have begun to proceed.
* Redwing :Redwing: A bugle, a scowl, a red-tainted jowl, a lobble, an obble, three times a gobble, but hark you giblet-addled feathered brains! A howl cut through the still. Like a pill in the swill he’d swirl about once and down the hatch he went: why not answer the call? It migth be entertaining… Not long after, he’d enter the clearing from the southeast and find his way to the back and sit.
* Kova as the wolves began to meander in from the woods and clearing proper, she would dip her nose and sway her tail softly to their arrivals. She was happy to see so many faces among those who’ve heard her voice. Ample amount of wolves now, she dipped her head and began. “Thank you to each who have heeded my call this evening. A gathering we’ve not had since the Lore Night. We’ve much to discuss, so I will begin.” her hues would search the wolves in collection. If Fianna was among them, she’d chuff to her to come forward.
* Quince The brute would look around the Clearing. Quite a few wolves were already gathered by the stone. Perhaps more would arrive soon? The brute’s ears were slightly pinned back as he looked up at the stone. He certainly wasn’t used to a gathering this large but he hid his slight unease as Kova began to speak.
* Leora she would smile to her sister, Fianna and the others as they gathered and took their places of seat. She would swing her tail but still it when her sister was called forward by Kova. She tilted her head softly but would perk eagerly now.
* Saskia broke into the clearing with some sort of speed, panting from her short journey. She paused, gaze lingering on the crowd gathering at the base of the Alpha’s stone. Searching amongst them for a black pelt would be first on her agenda; her hunter’s. It didn’t seem like he was there, which drew a saddened sigh from Sas but she’d continue forth. As she reached the group, she dipped her head to each she saw and would offer kind smiles. Her paws paused as she noticed her spirit mother’s earthen tones and she’d wave her tail behind her. Quietly, she approached but it seemed before she could make it, Kova called her forth. And so, Saskia would turn and find Quince’s frame. With a light sway of her frame, she moved towards the lighter brute, tail level with her frame but head and ears raised curiously. She dipped her snout to him and sat beside him, keeping a few feet of distance between them. She’d not offer words out of respect for the event.
* Calder he would look to Kova and to the meetings beginnings. When it was called to order and the first of it now called to action, he turned to Fianna and looked curiously to her. HIs tail ushered a warm wave and if she was near enough to him and the pups, he’d nose her warmly.
* Fianna No sooner had she really settled her behind in and gotten good and comfy next to her kin she would be called forth by a chuff from Kova! She’d sway her tail, wondering if it was what she thought it was, and right off the bat? So eager.. and why wouldn’t they be? She almost chuckled at the thought, padding forward with an easy swing of her paws. She would fall still in front of the stone, all fours resting there and she’d settle her gaze respectfully upon Kova, her tail swinging in question and her hues rather alight.
* Ophaelos would have been sprinting at a quick lope, covering quite an amount of ground in such a short amount of time. A sprint from the clearing to the hunting grounds was about ten minutes, and that was roughly the same distance the brute was having to cover. A quick ten minutes indeed for a swift wolf. Long legs and sturdy paws propel him across the snowy landscape, careful not to slip on the icier parts of the grass. Ophaelos would have taken the route through Rune’s cache to meet with the clearing, slowing down only for a moment to cross the river carefully before picking his pace back up again. The scent of Ceol was likely present around these parts—he’d hope the lad was on his way to the meeting by now, ‘less he miss it! Ophaelos was more likely to show up late to the party, though. After a few minutes of trotting through the forest, the snow wolf would arrive at the very southeastern edge of the clearing. His figure in such a snowy environment was likely going to be unseen until he approached closer, and now that he was finally here, he’d begin a slow trot toward the alpha stone, jaw agape to pant away his fatigue. No need to be running amok now, and no need to chuff or alert anyone of his presence. He’d simply slip into the crowd and take a seat quietly and solemnly, hoping not to interrupt. What had he missed? As he draws closer, he would hope it wasn’t much.
* Quince An ear would rotate towards the sound of approaching pawsteps. When Quince turned his head to the side, he’d see Saskia walk towards him. As the fae dipped her head at him, the brute would return the silent exchange with a nod of his own. He would then divert his attention back to the alphess, who seemed to have called forward the pack’s guardian.
* Rook would position himself beside Calder and the two younger wolves (so far). He would just about to be settled in when he heard his sister being called forward. Curiosity stirred him, but he quelled what anxiety might bubble by looking across the gathered few to see just how many had answered the call.
* Klara would certainly lean into Anna’s touch if she were to groom each fae pup! With her tail swaying, she’d prick her ears to Kova when she’d begin talking, head turning slightly at the sound of thumping behind her. Oh, it was Ceol! So he was here! Was her brother in tow with him?… it would seem not. Hmm… She wouldn’t have time to dwell on it too much when she’d hear Anna summoned to the stone. Curious, she’d tilt her head and listen. Ohhh… what was about to happen?? ❁༺
* Ceol couldn’t help but give a joyful yip and chuff as he approached, wanting to greet his mother but- oh? It looks like she’s being called up for something, so he would take his seat near his papa and uncle Rook instead! Not forgetting to give Maeve and Klara a quick sway of his tail and bump of his nose first before not so subtly standing up as tall as he could to give his best try at being at the same height as both of the older brutes now that he had grown quite a bit. Even if he wasn’t entirely there yet, Ceol was totally thinking he was pulling it off!
* Kova when the dark hued fae of her sister approached there was a knowingness in her hues and a pride that would exude from that very expression. Her nose dipped and she’d begin.
“Fianna, you have been a member born to this pack, grown, and have woven your own path well here. You have been true to your post and to your duties to this home and to this family.” she smiled before she continued.
“This pack has flourished as long as it has by those who have held it’s sacred creeds and lore, it’s memory passed on and held sacred to. This pack has been held together by those bound by duty and you have always upheld your own. We have been without a beta for sometime. This role is a role that see’s leadership extended. A voice to share that of the Alpha(s), should it be needed. Your word is as well my law, as the Alpha’s law. You have honored this pack in many ways, through many trials, and I wish to extend that honor to myself and to the pack by asking if you would accept the role as Beta of WolfSpirits?”
* Maeve might’ve forgotten to answer the question offered by Klara, but at Ceol’s arrival it would at least in part provide the answer as to where one of them has been! She’d offer a traditional sisterly greeting of an attempted chomp at his ears! Though it would seem that a call has been made and those around were beginning to gather!
* Saskia And perhaps this time, as Rook looked back at the crowd, she’d have a moment to offer a glance and a warm one at that. Before she had a chance to dip her snout, Kova’s words caught her attention and intrigued her. Beta? She’d never known such a role, but her instincts likely would. A soft and subtle inhale was given as she leaned forward, clearly interested in what was being discussed. Her amber gaze shifted between the two spirit sisters and eventually fell on her mother to see what she would respond with…
* Ophaelos The brute would have arrived just in time to hear the beginning of Kova’s speech to Fianna. Settling quietly in the crowd, he’d listen intently, eyes fanning over the group subtly as if to search who was present and who was not. Were the recent visitors present? Pledges? Assessments? His attention was split evenly through listening and observing, and his head would rise at the mention of beta. Fianna, being offered the beta rank? His tail would twitch a few times in excitement for her. That does beg the question though; how long has it been since their pack was missing a beta? Curious, he’d turn his head toward Fianna, awaiting an answer
* Redwing Fortuitous that he managed to see this. The question asker was becoming a beta. Just how many Greek letters would be unfurled tonight, he thought? Oh, Phi…yes, let’s get to Phi. That was his favorite. Alas, as he looked around to those wolves gathered, and as he counted as high as wolf could ever count, his hopes were dashed. There weren’t enough wolves. Well, after his quick and curious count, he’d turn his attention to the wolf of many questions and the answer she’d give.
* Calder he would remain near the pups (even when Ceol made it!) and turned to Kova and to his attention fell to Fianna. His eyes big but curious to what her answer would be. He knew deep in his heart, and on it’s surface, she was perfect for it.
* Fianna But wait.. This wasn’t at all what she had expected. The honor fell from her alpha and sister’s maw like the striking of a new and bright chord, and it resounded, rendering Fianna momentarily mute. She would look long and hard at Kova, ears perked and a sort of misty expression would come over her eyes before she would slowly turn to look at those gathered. They were heart. They were home. They were loved each in their own way and Fianna would give her life for them without a second though, if it was asked. She swept her eyes over them all, lingering on some, thinking then of Kwa’ani and Shukie both. How she wished they were here. Even if it meant this role wouldn’t have been offered her.
But she had been mute long enough and she drew herself up and her tail second only to Kova’s as she would respond, voice full of emotion a wolf could not truly bear on face alone.
“Long have I looked first to Atraya and Faolan, then to Shukie and yourself as bright examples of what leadership should be. You have all been a star of guidance that I will and always seek to mold myself and my heart after. Out of love for this pack, and more grateful than there are words for the honor bestowed in asking, I accept the new rank. And I hope.. that I can lead and guide others to grow and step into their own roles just as you and others have done before me.
With a new breath she would dip her head fully and respectfully to Kova.
* Kova she would wait with baited but soft breath as she would listen to Fianna’s words shared in tandem with her heart and to the request she offered and gave to her spirit sister. Her tail ushered swift and happy waves before she’d bow her head then rise it with gratitude and pride for her. How true and deep her words would feel and touch her own heart. She turned then to the gathered wolves and continued.
“As all have lay witness to Fianna’s acceptance, then all will hear a creed.”
“As beta you are a steadfast guardian of the pack, bound by loyalty and honor, but always true to yourself. In the tapestry of unity, you are the thread that will weave strength and order.
In the Alpha’s absence, you will stand vigilant, entrusted with the responsibilities to maintain harmony within our pack and family.
With courage in your blood, you will confront challenges head on, shielding the pack from threats. For unity, we find strength. You will continue to enrich our collective spirits and pack by fostering knowledge so every wolf may thrive.”
“With this, I am honored to name you Fianna, Beta of WolfSpirits.”
There she would stomp her paw to the stone and there, rise her muzzle sky high and howl for their new beta, Fianna!
* Rook Was there a tinge of surprise that was a little more so on his sister’s countenance? Was her expectation something other than what she had planned, he wondered? Oh, if he had the insight, he might have guessed the moment. Alas, no, he did not see these things. He saw and was genuinely filled with pride by his sister, the Beta of Wolfspirits. There were times to stamp the paw and save the voice…this was a time to stamp and bid the Song to be complete. He would raise his muzzle and howl low and heartily for Fianna.
* Quince he brute would lift his head back, howling his congratulations to Fianna as his tail swayed. He had always assumed the fae was some sort of beta. It turned out Quince was wrong before. But now, Fianna was the pack’s official beta. It made him wonder how long the pack had been without one until now.
* Calder the moment would be made real and the naming of Fianna to Beta would be given to the song and to the sky. To the pack. He would hear and heed the creed well and thought it fitting very much so. He would tip his muzzle and howl alongside the pack and alongside Fianna. His heart full and he knew Fianna’s to become even more so. For what was to come in the future, would do so with more woven threads.
* Ophaelos knew what the jist of the beta rank was, given his status in his pack well before he came to WolfSpirits. However, his ears would remain pricked and he’d remain as observant as ever upon listening to the beta’s creed. Slightly different from what he was used to, but that was to be expected in different cultures! To be a beta was everything—and although he was not too close to Fianna, he couldn’t help but feel proud of her nonetheless. When Kova would raise her nose, Ophaelos would follow suit with his song, stomping his paw in celebration
* Maeve The fae would listen in to the words of titles and responsibilities, and would offer her own voice to the congradulatory howl for her mother, the pack’s new Beta! She didn’t know all of what it meant, the creed and the responsibilities of the role, but it sounded very important!
* Saskia Listening to Fianna’s promise would cause her heart to palpitate in her chest in such an exciting way. Exciting, why? She wasn’t entirely sure, probably because she was happy for the fae. She knew that the trust that had been entrusted was well and justly placed. Not only was Fianna a Guardian, but she was also a leader. She was selfless, and stronger than anyone Saskia had ever met. After Kova named the creed and gave Fianna her new title, Saskia would follow suit and offer her own song into the air for her spirit mother with vicarious and prideful tones. “Fianna, Beta of WolfSpirits!” She gruued and offered into the air around them again just to hear it coming from her own maw. She gave Fianna a warm and happy look..
* Klara ༻❁ Beta?? What on earth was that rank?? Whatever it was, it sureeee sounded important, what with the way Kova described it! When everyone else would stomp their paws and howl, she’d try and copy them too. Yay, Anna!! ❁༺
* Leora she would hear the words shared by her sister, Kova and then the howl of the newest wolven ranked, Beta. She would gruuu and feel her heart swing for her sister! How earned and well! She would lift her muzzle and howl for her!
* Ceol It seemed all the pups had something in common, Beta was definitely a new one to them! Momentarily, Ceol would give a tilt of his head. Clearly more than a bit confused when the word was first mentioned, but after the mini speech given by Kova, It sounded like an verryyy important role with leadership and loyalty mentioned a whole lot and all. Everyone looked happy after his mother accepted anyways, which quite easily rubbed off on him so he would give a yipping howl and stomp of his paws as well! “Good job, Mama! Awwoooooooo~!”
* Fianna would feel her heart rise with the soaring tones of her kin and pack and she would keep her head bowed for a moment, the creed settling in and taking root right next to the guardian creed that would never leave her. It was in her blood. Finally she would rise her head and stamp her own paw and lift her voice to join the last part of the song, unable to resist the swell of voices and counting herself amongst them. She would then move to stand to the side of the stone, head glancing once more in question to Kova. Was the moment she had thought to be the previous moment, now upon them? Would what the Alphess request of her earlier be desired next? Fianna would wait for an indication, finding it within the gaze of her spirit sister and her heart would soar for the next step. She would look out amongst the faces beyond and focus on Rook, her gaze warm, and deep with hope and love as she’d speak again. “As my first act as Beta, and by the request of my spirit sister to see to new paths, I would ask Rook and Kova both to stand before all, together.”
* Kova as the howls of celebratory pride would ring far and wide, she would offer her song alongside Fianna’s own. When the sounds of chours would fade, she would look to her sister and swing her tail. A knowing expression would fall across her features before she would turn and make her way down the rock when Fianna would call her forward. The look she had given would be the assurance for it.
Part 2
Leaping to the earth she would nose Fianna softly and smile, then she gave a look to her court, Rook, and would stride to him and wait to settle just beside him and stood before their new Beta.
* Cairdeas had been out of the clearing perhaps the call reached him from way in the south. He had been exploring, he had taken his sweet time heading back north. He would be nearing the clearing, but would be unaware what the call was for or what events had transpired.
* Calder his eyes would follow Fianna’s and when she would announce her first act and called Rook and Kova forward he’d tilt his head momentarily before swinging his tail with a knowing woosho. He perked his ears to Ceol and Maeve and grinned, nosing the pair on their crowns before looking out again. If Klara and Cairdeas where near, he’d offer them a place beside to.
* Rook Celebration continued for as long as it could given the agenda to cover the rest of the evening. He, however, did not expect to be called forth…least of all by his sister. What did they have planned, one might wonder? Well, he wasn’t exactly surprised but was nervous none-the-less. Rook would dip his nose to his sister’s summons and make his way before the stone to stand beside his court to whom he’d give a gentle bump of his shoulder.
* Saskia A curious gaze settled on the courted pair as they were called before Fianna. She hummed softly and a smile would curl at her maw. Ooooo.. She grew quiet and awaited what was next.
* Anfir Now had he howled or stampitty stomp stomped for Fianna when she was named Beta? One of the two, yes, or perhaps that was just a stray turkey somewhere in the distance that had obble lobble lobbled. Now, he would be drawn a little closer to see Kova and Rook be called to the stone by the new inquisitor of inquisitiveness. So, this Beta thing had some added perks huh? Let’s see…where were we in the alphabet?
* Leora her hues fell to her brother then to Kova. She tilted her head and gave a quizical look. She hummmmmed. What was this all about, huh? She would wait and see ! yes indeed!
* Cairdeas was now inside the clearing, and realized a gathering was in fact in place. Familiar scents, some absent for a while reached his snout causing a slight wave. He decided to quietly observe from behind as to not interupt. He just kind of lay in the back, perhaps later he may make himself known when the meeting concluded. He also remained quiet feeling a bit embarrassed for showing up so late to a meeting, or rather his conclusion was that this was a meeting, but why was Fianna up front?
* Ophaelos gaze would have turned to the courted pair when they were called forth by their new beta. The brute had a sneaking suspicion on what this was about, considering their status… but, he wouldn’t know anything until they spoke. So, he’d eagerly await their words.
* Fianna would have as much a smile on her muzzle ad a wolf could as she watched the pair before her, joy at the honor behind and before her she would look between them as she spoke, het voice carrying so all could hear.
“The path behind you both has beckoned the new path ahead. Where two once were, even coming side by side.. so now might they become one path. One song with melody the richer for the two bound chords. Does this desire still and fully dwell within each of you? Will you be joined as mates before the pack and with the weight of heart and memory both? ” Fianna would feel her heart beating a quicker tempo as she waited for their answer. She loved both of them so much.
* Kova looking to Fianna, Beta of WolfSpirits and sister of her heart. When the question was asked she smiled. She turned to Fianna, giving a nod before looking to Rook.
“Courtship is a dance of two souls to ensure it’s beat never missed and if it belongs. Hearts beating harmoniously together in a melody only two can truly hear. Mateship is a bond unbreakable by time or fear. It is a timeless and ageless love that I know and that I feel with Rook. I have woven a tapestry for many things in life, but none felt or has ever felt so pure and so right then the one I have woven with Rook. No other wolf in this world hsa held my heart as he, and none other do I wish to pledge myself other than to he. This is a feeling deeply carved in the landscape of my soul, and forever intertwined like endless rivers we shall be.” She would turn to Rook and meet his own gaze once more.
“When we part this realm of the living, may our soul and love be known so well and true that our souls could become seeds, planted against a meandering river of moon’s silvery hue, for us to grow eternally together, forever touching and holding close.”
She turned to Fianna and gave a sure nod. “I am ready to be joined as mates.”
* Saskia As she listened to Fianna’s question, she had to admit she was surprised. She knew this day would come but had it been so long already? She hummed and listened to Kova’s answer and would silently stamp her paw at her claim. She knew the unbreakable bond of mateship all too well and in many seasons of her life her own mate had been one to hold her together.
Part 2
When Kova spoke of leaving this realm and what she hoped it would mean for the pair, Saskia smiled and her heart ached knowing at some point, the words would be their reality. She also tilted her head, having remembered a similar story about two lovers, two seeds, and worlds apart. Her gaze shifted to Rook whom she swore she heard the story from.
* Rook would look to his sister and her heartfelt smile that lightened the nerves and then to his court, his mate to be, to see her own hues and the world within. It was a world that had become very much his own–true that two paths had become very much one, and he would listen to her words, their cadence, their timbre, and their tones as though given the gift of hearing for the first time. His eyes and mind were lost, swept from the sweeping hills of memory and those who resided therein for the lone frame of his heart here and now.
“I first remember you as the west wind moved across the field of sedges, and I’ll forget my past in its crone-scarred truth as we hunt in fields of gold. When next I saw your face in halls of dim-lit stone, beneath a shroud of story. In your voice, I fell, as you called me forth to work the fields of gold.” He’d pause a moment to collect himself and look to his paws in so doing before he looked to her once more.
“I’ve tarried long, mo chroí, for a world unseen…far from the field of sedges, but I’ll forget the Vale and its golden light as we sow the fields of gold.” Here, he’d look between his sister and Beta and to his court.
“Oaths I keep in my heart are unspoken. Some still beat, and yet some lay broken, but in the days still given us we will thrive in fields of gold…We will hunt and die in fields of gold as mates.”
* Ophaelos would listen closely to their shared words, blinking softly in their direction and heaving an inward sigh as he reflected on his own life. It had been quite a long time since he felt the touch of his mate, felt her embrace, and inhaled her scent. The closest he had come to her in recent times was seeing her fleeting images in his strange dreams with Saskia. To be bonded together as mates is to live, breathe, and die for one another. While cynical about the idea of opening himself up to such things again in his life, he couldn’t help but feel warm for the pair standing before the stone as they spoke their vows.
* Cairdeas listened intently though at the same time might have had thoughts of, ‘Eww,’ or, ‘gross, you’ll never see me being sappy like that.’ Still a pup never having such an experience left him blind for now. However he did not make a sound as he just listened intently.
* Fianna The words would fall from both, beautiful in their sincerity and she would take a moment to gather her own voice again before speaking. “Not only by the words you speak before the pack, but by the heart and strength with which you speak them, will you now be named mates. Together shall you go and may it be with the blessing of bond and name, memory and heart. Never shall the river’s part, even to the very lakes of Loch Oiche.”
Part 2
Fianna would feel her heart tighten and swell, happy and proud both for her brother and spirit sister in their new bond. She had long been watching it grow from a tiny seed to now flourish as it would, strong and deep. “It is an honor to name you, Kova and Rook, to be mates, now and forever.” With that she’d stamp a paw and raise her voice to howl for the newly named mates!!
* Quince Although the brute didn’t know the alphess or the Lore Master very well, he still felt proud of them both as they exchanged vows. To form a bond like that with a wolf took commitment and dedication; months to even years just to get to that point.
He lightly tapped his paw against the ground. His tail would thump against the ground in sync with his paw. It was the equivalent of a ‘golf clap’ to congratulate the not-so young lovers. He’d lift his head to the sky, letting out another howl of congratulations to the newly mated wolves.
* Saskia Saskia have a great big awwww to Rook’s heartfelt words. The confession of undying and unconditional words of love caused her heart to swell as well. Lore Master and Alphess were mated – heart and heart for eternity. To this, she would raise her head to release a song of celebration and of emotion alike. What a beautiful ceremony. 💜
* Ophaelos When Fianna would raise her song to the sky, Ophaelos would join her with his and stomp his paw. He hadn’t realized it had been so long—he remembers when he saw their courtship ceremony. That alone would remind him of just how long he had been here by now… how long had it been? The season was shifting… a year, almost?
Part 2
Once everyone’s songs had concluded, he’d quietly turn his sights to the beta and alphess to see if there was any other spectacular news to share. He had his own—that the scout trail had been finalized—but would wait his turn at the end of the meeting to speak.
* Maeve Maeve would notice Cairdeas among those gathered and would make her way over to sit by the pup and make a quick playful chomp at his ears! The young fae was also kind of lost by the talk of lovey dovey stuff, so she’d be somewhat easily distractible! But as the calls would start, of songs in celebration of their union, she’d offer hers as well. She’d still be happy for her the pair, even if she couldn’t quite understand the meaning of it all
* Kova when Fianna would name them a mated pair, she would feel her heart swell for the love and support of Rook, Fianna and those who where around now to celebrate them together.
Part 2
She would lift her muzzle upwards and let loose a deepened, but happy howl! A howl of two hearts finally joined as one. She would lean into Rook quickly, licking and nuzzling into his coat and fur. Oh, how she felt like she was merely 3 again!
* Leora when the ceremony continued and heart felt words of love and hearts dancing in melodies she couldn’t hear, she swung her atil happily behind her all the same. Awwww now she was getting mushy. She would celebrate with the rest of the pack and when her brother tied his heart to another, she’d well to! She would howl happily for them!
* Rook would lower the crown of his head to place upon his mate’s or to her shoulder to simply bask in this new chapter. Here, he could reside in memory’s field of sedges and remember what was worth remembering, tell tales of what was worth telling, and continue with the work that two hearts made a little easier. All was quiet for him. All was right. That moment would last from this point forward, but the howls and celebrations would flood his senses. He would lick and smother his mate in affection before he felt the sway of the meeting turn to matters that needed more attention than his love-struck heart.
* Cairdeas tried to integrate in the background, however Maeve had noticed him. Now they would know he showed up late for sure, though if love was on the agenda perhaps it was a good thing he came late? He did sit up as Maeve came and nibbled his ears he playfully nipped back at the female. The two of them were pretty perceptive for the pups they were. As things continued his attention soon returned forward.
* Fianna would dip her head and sway her tail, letting the howls die down before she would leap from the stone to move and nuzzle both Rook and Kova. “Back to you.” She would whisper to her spirit sister before she would take up a secondary position still beside the stone, standing and looking toward her own mate and heart thrumming with happiness and joy. The pups seemed well enough behaved and she was proud of their own journeys. Where would each of them go? Who would they be?
* Kova she would smile to her sister and nose her warmly. “Thank you sister” she grinned before she’d nose her mate softly before she’d return back to the stone once more. She’d ascend it before peering back to those who have gathered. A happy spark still welling within.
Part 3
“Before I continue, is there any who wish to come forward and request to join?”
* Saskia After the lovey-dovey business died down and Kova took back over, Saskia would listen to her question. Seated beside her was Quince, one of the visiting wolves. She remembered their conversation weeks prior about how content he was with the pack thus far and she wondered if his heart had remained the same. Her gaze wouldn’t linger for too long, but she would nose his shoulder and wink before turning back towards Kova.
* Quince After the celebration died down, the brute turned his attention to Kova. Was it now his time to pledge? The nose to his shoulder from Saskia pushed him to his paws as he stepped towards the stone. The brute now stood before the alphess and beta, feeling a bit nervous.
“I wish to join your pack. It had been a goal of mine for over a year to start anew, and that goal has remained unchanged even now,” he spoke loud and clear, raising his head. “I promise to give you all my loyalty and dedication if you will accept me among your ranks, as I do not wish to let any of you down.” His tone and expression were serious. He really meant his words, and he spoke as sincerely as he could about his intentions as his eyes remained on the alphess.
* Kova her silvery hued gaze fell across those who where gathered and when a voice would perk from the crowd, she turned to see Quince. When the brute would move forward and request to join the pack she would smile and welcome him forward.
Part 2
“As you stand before the pack you desire to join, Quince, then I welcome you forward on your journey as you have given to your words. As a pledge of WolfSpirits, you will get to know deeper the roots of your heart and truly if your paws desire to remain with us as a pack member. This is the time to get to know the pack and it’s wolves, yes, but it is more deeply to know that you wish to continue on your journey with us. You will learn and grow alongside the others and I invite you to grow indeed.” she would rise her paw and stomp it to the stone.
Part 3
“I would then like to have the honor of naming you Pledge of WolfSpirits, Quince.” she smiled and dipped her head.
* Cairdeas just listened and watched, as Ceol also noticed him again to his nuzzles he would nip playfully. His gaze returned forward as Kova took the stone, were there any new victims? He kind of hoped someone stepped up to the plate so he could observe what joining actually meant. He wondered about it but could he just live here without joining eventually? As Quince emitted silently Cairdeas celebrated, now he had a Quince to shadow and learn from. At least it was an acquaintance he had been introduced to. He was starting to get more excited because of the trip he took to the water [Lake of Solace].
* Maeve would giggle quietly at her brother’s expressed disdain for yucky lovey stuff. She didn’t quite understand it herself, since all boys were stinky and had cooties, but the sentiments were sweet and wholesome. Her response would be quiet, not wishing to interrupt meeting proceedings “I dunno it’s kinda sweet” She’d hush as Rook would sit nearby but will playfully chomp at Ceol’s ear trying to pester him in the meantime! She’d hear the words nearby of joining, and Quince’s words of loyalty. She’d remembered him, and would be glad to see his intentions to stay. She would happily stamp her paws in congratulation, mimicking Kova’s gesture so as to not interrupt!
* Ophaelos would turn his gaze to Quince when he would take the opportunity to pledge. Humming quietly to himself, his eyes would flutter across the crowd in search of the other visiting wolves. Where were the other wolves? Had they found their way out of the territory, or were they off elsewhere? It would seem Quince was the only one of them who was present and willing to pledge, and so he would turn his eyes back to the male and listen to Kova and Quince’s exchange.
* Fianna would echo Kova’s stomp with one of her own and dip her head happily in recognition of Quince’s step along the path to to full membership! She’d remember her earlier words to him and looked forward to a spar. Until then she would feel her tail sway to their growing numbers
* Calder there would be quiet a bit going on, and so, he would bounce his eyes from Kova to Rook, then to Fianna. When the mateship was made whole he would’ve added his voice as well in honor of their union. When Rook joined them he’d dip his head and smile, giving him a light but knowing nudge of his shoulder. When Fianna returned to her place he would have nosed her should it be near him. Proceeding along, members of the pack would now focus on the newly visited wolves. Quince, to name one, he would watch curiously as the brute stepped forward and pledged. He was named and so, he’d stomp his paw.
* Klara Kapel ༻❁ Kinda sweet? Mmmhh… well, Maeve does seem like the sentimental type actually, so that’s believable! Not to Klara, though… they were layin’ it on wayyy too thick for her tastes! Oh, and what’s this about pledging? Another one of those? This time it was from… Quince. Quince? Had she met him before? Well… that didn’t seem to matter now that he was part of the pack! Her eyes would dart to the stompin’ of paws, and so she’d copy the adults and do it as well!
* Quince Hearing the alphess welcome him to WolfSpirits, the brute couldn’t help but wag his tail. This was a day he had been waiting for- to join a pack once again. He truly felt honored in that moment as he dipped his head to Kova. “Thank you. I promise not to let you down, my alpha,” he said in a calm tone, but his tail was less than calm at that moment.
* Rook would dip his nose to Calder when the glance was shared, but returned his attention in time to offer a firm stamp of the paw to the ground for the newly named Pledge, Quince. He would then look between Fianna and Kova. Who would show the newly minted pledge the hunting grounds and the beasts within, he wondered?
* Saskia Wooo! More pledges to torture! This was a task worthy of taking on. All jokes aside, once Quince expressed his desire to remain and grow within their fold, she smiled and stamped her paw. Stamp, Stamp-ity, Stamp! One quick gaze slips towards Rook from whom the stamp stealers stole from. Or.. did they simply learn it?
Part 2
“Quince, Pledge of WolfSpirits..” She murmured a bit less loudly now but all the same proud to see their numbers growing and those numbers having their own self growth.
* Ceol would give a playful glare to Maeve as she would go for his ears, trying to swat her away before giving a quick stomp of his paw for the new something or other, Quince!- was he paying attention? Not so much now that his sister just decided to start with her pestering! While everyone was distracted celebrating, Ceol jumped on the opportunity to make his own attack! A swift chomp and snap to his sister’s flank would be given in return! This was just the beginning!
* Quince The stamping of paws from the wolves gathered around would make Quince look back. He dipped his head to his new pack, giving them a wolfy smile which was something he didn’t do so often. He’d then move back to his spot near Saskia, sitting down as he remained focused on the current meeting. His tail still remained swaying slightly, however.
* Kova she would smile to Quince and dip her nose. She looked forward to the young lad’s progression in the pack and what he’d accomplish in his growth. She knew it to be a well amount.
She would dip her nose allowing Quince to return back to where he desired to settle before looking back to the others. As it seemed there where no others who approached, she’d turn back to the gathered.
“Next I’d like to remind everyone from last meeting that we will be having a Sparring Tournament soon!”
* Leora she would watch everything unfold at once. One by one each new thing introduced gave her heart a beating jab of happiness! When Quince was named a pledge, she gave a wooooOo for the brute! Turning then to Kova and announcment of a tournament, she grinned. Ohhhh yes! She was gunna be good.
* Maeve When she’d catch her brother’s glare she’d hold back a snicker, looking off in another direction pretending like she was all innocent to the pestering. Oh, what’s over there? Her ruse however useless it might be on her brother, who’d no doubt know by now! He would launch a counter attack at her fluffy flank and the fae would hop back and circle around Cairdeas to create a brother-barrier. But as she’d hear the discussion on the table her ears would perk to attention! Sparring you say?
* Ophaelos would offer his paw stamp alongside the others when Quince was named pledge. He would hope this pledge would stick around a little longer than the others he had seen come and go, for the journey to and from being a pledge is a lengthy yet promising process. His attention would soon turn back to Kova, and his ears would twitch at the mention of a sparring tournament. Interesting… his pack held something similar, except they weren’t tournaments—they were part of an ancient tradition. He remembers detailing it in one of the first lore nights he had ever participated in… nonetheless, he’d keep his eyes on the alphess—would she explain more about it or would they move on?
* Saskia would watch Quince as he approached and took his seat near her again and she’d brush her snout along his pelt as he reclined back down. She heard his thumping tail against Kova’s words and she would snicker, moving her own tail to brush over his in acknowledgment to his excitement. Kova’s announcement of a sparring tournament would cause her tail to still, however, and she would curl it around her haunches curiously – hesitantly. She gave no outward appearance over her excitement or lack there of, but she did seem interested in what was in store!
* Rook continued to listen and heed the proceedings of the meeting as they unfolded. With no other to pledge, the meeting went swiftly to news. What better place to start than the sparring tournament? He would give Calder and perhaps Maeve a sly grin. All they needed was one more really, and they could run the table. What did he have planned? Rook would then turn his attention beyond those beside him to those around. Who might gravitate to one another? What teams might coalesce?
* Quince When the darker fae brushed her snout against his pelt, the brute flinched a bit as he looked to her. Saskia’s snickering made Quince a bit embarrassed as he turned away, repositioning himself to sit on his tail so it would hopefully stop wagging.
The mention of a ‘Sparring Tournament’ sparked the brute’s interests as he perked his head up. His ears were facing forward as his head tilted slightly. I wonder how that will work? Still sounds pretty fun, whatever a tournament is! He was eager to see how things would go down during the tournament, whether he was able to participate or not.
* Fianna Remaining as she was by the stone now Fianna would have opportunity to better gauge the responses and expressions of the pack around her and at Kova’s ect words she would feel her tail sway with excitement and anticipation. Oh yes, that played in nicely to her desire to see the pack work cohesively together, prepared to meet dangers of every sort. Glancing at her mate, she wondered excitedly about sparring him, too. She didn’t miss her brother’s sly grin to her daughter and she wondered what ideas he had up his sleeve. Knowing him, they’d be exciting. Her eyes slid to Saskia for a long moment then, thoughtful and weighing, before she would look back up to Kova, waiting and listening.
* Anfir Well, at this point, it was fairly obvious that no other greek letter was to be introduced into the conversation. He was just about to depart for the evening when mention of a sparring tournament caught him squarely. Yes, yes…maybe he should enter? He didn’t really see any that might be fun to spar against though. Where was that grumplestiltskins at? He would love to pester that one in a match!
* Cairdeas perked at the sound of a sparring tournament. The other pups had distracted him slightly however that one thing brought him back to the meeting. He was becoming tired but he was very interested in the sparring tournament, that was right up the pup’s alley.
* Klara Kapel ༻❁ A sparring tournament?… Well, that doesn’t sound fun! Not to participate, of course… but to watch? She was alllllllll for it… her eyes would loom to Ceol and the bigger wolves sitting among the crowd. He knew he’d be chompin’ at the bit to do something like this… but who else would be excited?… ❁༺
* Ceol When Maeve chose to use Cairdeas as a wolfy-shield, Ceol was quick to drop into a short playbow and circle around to follow after her, but it seemed his eager to move paws would stop in their tracks as soon as his ears caught word for some kind of tournament as well. Oooo! That sounded so fun! Could he spar his little sister? That just had to be an option!
With that thought, Ceol’s eyes went slowly back to Maeve, trying to subtly circle after her and go for her tail now without causing tooooo much commotion.
* Kova she would smile and swing her tail swiftly behind her. “The tournament will consist of a few teams. A time and day has not yet been set, but I hope this might give a few of you time to prepare.” she grinned and looked to her mate a moment, then Fianna and back to the rest.
“The tournament will be a sparring tournament. Select wolves will go against one another to bring fourth a champion! There’s a few tokens in store for those who participate, and of course, to the champion as well. More to come and I will share it when I have more.”
* Calder he’d pick up on the look from Rook and smile, giving a knowing nod. He would still think on this question and proposal on who he would pick. His eyes turned to Kova and when more details where given and shared, he would stomp his paw. He looked forward to it indeed.
Part 2
The pups antics, however weren’t lost to him and he turned to see Ceol, Maeve and Cairdeas (the poor shield in the middle) before giving a low gruuuuu sound as if to indicate them to pay attention. Ooo yes, a tournament! The pups included.
* Saskia Her gaze remained on Kova until she felt another set of eyes upon her, in which glowing amber hues would move to meet them. It was her spirit mother’s and it was long and weighing. Saskia wouldn’t break away from the burning gaze until her mother did, and then her own gaze would find the ground, squinting in what seemed like some sort of emotion. Still, part of her would be excited for a sparring match, even more excited to see what the pups would bring to the table and who would be the champion. What was most important was the idea of the event bringing together family and kin alike, something she could look forward to!
* Quince listened to Kova’s announcement carefully. This definitely sounds interesting! Although he never had ‘Tournaments’ in his birth pack, he certainly wouldn’t mind watching one. If I land a spot in this Sparring Tournament, I’ll make sure to train extra hard instead of lazing around all day! There was a small spark of determination inside of the brute. Perhaps this little event would help him get back into shape after spending lots of his time sleeping.
* Ophaelos His eyes would move to the pups as their feverish and somewhat rambunctious energies were noticed. They would certainly have a blast in such an environment—his pups always loved a good spar and romp. With it still in the future, he’d hum. Would he participate? Would he even have time? Luckily, Kova was giving everyone a handsome amount of time to prepare and decide, so perhaps.
* Rook His plotting aside, he had hoped to see a few others present. A few days before the next announcement would allow the field to thin so to speak, and the added pressure to find the perfect time might just be enough to test those in need of testing…namely one of his assessments. If anything, it would give the rambunctious pups something to sink their teeth into.
* Finna would eye the pups as they seemed to reach their admirable limit of sitting still and she was grateful for Calder giving them the eye and the reminder that a while longer was asked for. She would look around at the other faces, those who were present were noted, and those that weren’t.. well.. her hopes had perhaps been higher for them but she would continue to hope they would perhaps be seen and if so.. more often. She would remain settled and listening, both IC and OOC
* Maeve The fae would listen in to the words offered about tournaments and teams! How many to a team, she’d wonder? But her goal was simple, if high: no less than Champion would be accepted!
Would she perhaps remain distracted enough that Ceol’s antics catch her off guard, or had their Father’s warning tones been enough to settle excitable paws?
* Kova she would look to the others gathered before she would dip her head. “If no others desire to speak or add to the meetings agenda, then I will call this meeting to a close. Thank you to each and all who attended and congratulations to all.” she would smile and stomp her paw to the stones surface! Moments where given before she would drop herself off the stone slowly and there approach the base with a wave of her tail.
* Saskia would rise and chuff lightly at Kova’s words. “If I may, Kova?” She inquired.
* Kova she turned to Saskia and whne she inquired to speak, she gave a swing of her tail and nod. “Aye Saskia. Come forward” her tone light
* Ophaelos would turn to meet Saskia’s figure when she would ask to have a word with Kova. Seems she’d beat him in the game of getting the last word in for the meeting! Nonetheless, he’d listen closely and wait once more for his turn.
* Saskia swayed her tail once, to and fro, before approaching the base of the stone and turning to face the group.“Nothing too important, but while most of the pups are in sight, Calder and I fell a turkey in the night. I have brought back what remains of the carcass and you will have to share.. Get your strengths up for the sparring tournament, I’m excited to see each of your strengths.” She smiled warmly and nosed in the directions of the carcass, which was only a little ways off the Alpha’s stone. Turning towards Kova and her mother, who now stood near the base, she’d smile and dip her head in an appreciative manner before taking her seat again near Quince.
RANKS
In an effort to ensure ranks have a good solid meaning and purpose, we’ve been thinking about doing a little re-work of it. As it is right now, there’s an absence with most due to inactivity. No fault of the wolf, for real life comes first, but we’ve continually run into this so I wanted to bring this up to everyone and get some opinions/thoughts/feedback. We want to ensure ranks have meaning and investment is there, but also exciting and motivating for folks to participate with 
We where thinking of Integration of roles to give others more opportunity to weave into other aspects of ones duty in the pack. So for example a scout can wander the trails and find prey just as a hunter would scout for prey, to. We where also thinking that ranks could become a educator role. A wolf who will facilitate activity throughout the pack and wolves?
Ophaelos — Today at 7:37 PM
that sounds like a great idea!
Maeve — Today at 7:37 PM
That sounds fun! :wolfpog:
Ophaelos — Today at 7:38 PM
i was doing some of that already earlier this year when panther and shakira were missing. it’s fun, and it gives everyone a chance to expand 😀 sort of similar how real packs in the wild would! everyone pitches in and goes off to find prey and the like. it would be very useful especially for busy folks like me and a lot of the others 🙂
Ophaelos — Today at 7:38 PM
i was doing some of that already earlier this year when panther and shakira were missing. it’s fun, and it gives everyone a chance to expand 😀 sort of similar how real packs in the wild would! everyone pitches in and goes off to find prey and the like. it would be very useful especially for busy folks like me and a lot of the others 🙂
⚜Saskia⚜ — Today at 7:41 PM
Oooo! I dig the idea but just some genuine questions –
Would we be changing the names of the ranks? If not then would we send the Scouts on higher-risk scouting missions? Same for Hunters hunting or Guardians keeping dangers away? Where does the integration end and the rank specialization begin? 🤔💜
Shukie — Today at 7:43 PM
back in the day, Scouts were those seeking out new members, traveling, etc. Perhaps the scouts nowdays could be the ones to tour new wolves, give basic history and do’s/dont’s, etc. could be an added function? *whispers nonsense into the winds to blow where they may ..giggles
Rook — Today at 7:44 PM
At this current point, half the ranks aren’t really serving to instigate rp or to integrate at all with each other. The education part is great -when- folks are trained in the rank, understand how that rank helps instigate rp, and how it can and does integrate with other roles, not before.
Ophaelos — Today at 7:45 PM
i see!
Kova — Today at 7:46 PM
To that note to, I’ve been also thinking about adding in some goodies into the bot. I also plan to be more proactive with the site. Especially during events like the turkeys, holidays, and tournaments.
Ophaelos — Today at 7:47 PM
yay! i love going on the website and seeing what changes have taken place there so that’ll be fun 🙂
⚜Saskia⚜ — Today at 7:48 PM
Agreed. I definitely agree on the educating part of it all. I also believe too much integration could cause a lack of purpose? I think having a specific role in the pack gives us the initiative and want to be involved in the roleplay; we have a specific purpose. A title doesn’t make or break worth, but when a role is earned I think it should be prioritized in that specialization if that makes sense?
As for the events, I absolutely LOVE what you guys have done. I wasn’t involved in the bobble fishing but I saw it and it was super cool. And the turkey hunting too! chefs kiss
Shukie — Today at 7:50 PM
One thing I thought about doing back in my pack a few decades ago, doing regular rotation of ‘jobs/roles’
Rook — Today at 7:51 PM
Specialized roles work when folks are active and instigating rp with those roles. It’s great in an ideal situation, but unfortunately when folks in those roles are not active, we stagnate and nothing happens. We shouldn’t have strayed away from the point of having those roles be the drivers of rp, and broadening out to have some redundancy and overlap will help ensure the fun aspects of rp don’t hinge on inactive people showing up
Ophaelos — Today at 7:51 PM
i completely agree ^^
i think its a good idea honestly!
⚜Saskia⚜ — Today at 7:51 PM
Of course!
Fianna — Today at 7:51 PM
I think that no rank should be so specialized that it keeps them from interacting with others. The whole point, as Rook kind of said, is to make roleplay amongst each other more fun and cohesive and together none of us want to be just writing up monologues of our jobs all the time. Instead, we want to see where each rank needs to interact with others, and why, and put that to good use via education and communication between the ranks.
Shukie — Today at 7:52 PM
Overlap would be beneficial I think
Ophaelos — Today at 7:52 PM
after all, in a real pack system, everyone works together 🙂
Shukie — Today at 7:54 PM
People’s lives and priorities change constantly. Just as a pack would too
⚜Saskia⚜ — Today at 7:54 PM
I see. I think I probably read that wrong, then. Also when you put it like that it makes it more chewable, for sure. Using it to interact more with others is a good idea.
Kova — Today at 7:54 PM
The ranks and roles will be trained in our realm and of WolfSpirits. The overlap like Rook said would and can happen with some interesting role play and story to add to it. Even special events where it would require a scout and hunter, or guardian and scout, etc.
I want to provide some fun environments moving forward for folks to work together in those roles and ranks, but more importanely, ensure that it’s engaging so we can try and avoid the stagination. Maybe even opprtunity for roles to be passed should another need to step for a long LOA, that way wolves aren’t in limbo RP wise waiting for someone to come back.
Ophaelos — Today at 7:55 PM
yeah. i’m trying to get back to working fulltime as it is and doing some other stuff aside from RP now that my mental health is improving. lots of big life events happened lately, and it’ll take me away from RP. not completely but noticeable absence that this system would help with
Fianna — Today at 7:57 PM
If wolves are trained by hunters in how to Rp and use the bot for hunting, as their role, then a hunt needn’t be instigated by a hunter because they have trained others in the best practices. They have continued oversight and authority, as always, but Rp wouldnt stagnate.
Kova — Today at 7:58 PM
Understandable :wolfheartlight: Real life comes first, and I want to make sure there’s a good transition should someone need to LOA for a while (months). That way those who are in those roles/ranks are active.
I don’t know the exact details just yet, but I wanted to bring it to the table and see how everyone felt/thought about it. I’ll be moving some roles/ranks around after reaching out, but half a year of absence is difficult to continue the RP and make it make sense.
Fianna — Today at 7:58 PM
Same with Guardians in training and developing others, when and how to face dangers. Because obviously they won’t always be the ones there when danger happens.
Cairdeas, Ceol, Raine, Maeve, Leora
* Kova the fae would have made her way from the northern trees to the other edge of the pack’s hold. The clearing wasn’t far now and it wouldn’t take her long to reach the open expanse. A few more moments would pass and out into the open she’d come. Her stride was light but warry. Tired, perhaps? All the same an eagerness in her heart would flutter for she was hoping to call a meeting. Yes, a gathering always did the heart light. Upon her observation, she’d make note of any and all within until her strides took her to the Alpha’s stone. Upon it’s base she would rise and up to the end she’d go. A breath taken in, then a howl offered in song.
AWwwwwwwwoooooo! a pack meeting is called.*Ophaelos Quiet paws would carry him through the forest and to a particularly interesting little clearing within. Oddly and seemingly purposefully placed branches and stones were neatly jumbled across the clearing as Ophaelos meanders through it, silvern eyes shifting from each part of this… was this an obstacle course? How peculiar—Leora’s scent seemed to teem strongly in this area. Was this her favorite little hide-out to retreat to the same way the snow wolf retreats to his knoll in the Sweet Valley? He would soon bypass this area and continue to the clearing, picking his pace up from an amble and into a slow lope once Kova’s familiar howl rippled his way.
* Vesper would rise from her resting place next to the riverbank and take another look into its depths, pondering a catch for the cache before a song would greet her ears, and up she’d go, tawny paws carrying her back to the Alpha stone as she barked cheerfully. What news would the Alphess have to tell?
* Kova as she’d make note of each wolf’s presence, she’d dip her head and smile lightly. “Well met, wolves of WolfSpirits.” she smiled keenly and softly. “Thank you for heeding my call and a gathering for a meeting.” she shifted her paws lightly beneath her.
* Fianna Fianna would move across the river, her pelt getting soaked to the belly fur as she splashed across and shook on the far side, her gaze finding others as they moved in to heed the call. Pushing forward she’d chuff to Ophaelos as they headed to the alpha stone. Her brother might be spotted as well from the southern end and she’d feel her tail.sway brightly. Quietly she would move to settle within the shade of the alpha stone, perking and curious to what her spirit sister would offer in the meeting.
* Rook
* Fianna
* Kova
* Cairdeas listened intently. His cape was still secured to his nape for now. His tail swished gently.
* Raine She’d listen closely to hear what the alpha had to say. At the mention of change of season, she would swish her tail, she kinda liked the cold since she could roll around in the snow! But she also felt like winter had just been yesterday. She shook off her thoughts and pricked her ears to hear more closely at what she had to say.
* Rook
* Kova silvery light amber hues fell upon her court with endearment. She always held it for him, of course, but when he spoke of what was to come she couldn’t help but feel her chest rumble with pride. A fine idea, indeed. She gruuued and smiled. “Eager and ready I think we all are. I am sure the course will prove to be useful as well” she looked to where the pups might be before turning to her court and smiling. “I look forward to those who will participate!”
* Calder his eyes fell to Rook and when he announced the events soon to come with the transition in season, he grinned. His eyes scanned quietly to the others about. He wondered if perhaps he’d finally get to sparr with Grim? He grinned once more at the thought before turning now to the other wolves gathered then back to Kova. He was ready indeed.
* Kova as each wolf would express their excitement and eagerness for the events to come, she grinned and stomped her paw softly. “I look forward to it.” she said before turning now to the other wolves gathered. “Before I continue, I would open the floor to any who desire to come up and speak.” she noted Raine among the gathered, a fairly newer wolf whom she hadn’t had a chance to spend as much time with lately.
* Rook would move to sit back once more and watch as the rest of the pack meeting went on. He wondered if the new wolf would ask to pledge or, as with a few others, wait and watch a month or two more. His thoughts also dwelled on when to next have a Lore Night, and to that he’d speak on “Yes, one more thing. We should have a Lore Night. Perhaps in a couple week’s time and then another next month.”
* Vesper ears would prick at the mention of a Lore Night… she had a tale to offer, should she be allowed… she’d seek her stone, later—surely it was still at the den where Cairdeas had guarded it? She’d have to thank the pup later, for keeping her treasure safe.
* Kova well aware of Ophaelos’ presence she to was eager to hear what her scout in training might’ve found on his ventures. She turned an ear to the sound of her court’s lore night announcement and she smiled. “Aye, agreed.” she turned to address the others. “I invite all to share should you desire to. I am sure from now until then, we can find a story to share.” she grinned then looked back to the other gathered and it was here her hues fell to the new fae, Raine once more. She recalled her conversation of invitation to want to find a home, but, she’d leave the moment to her to request if she desired. For now, her hues fell to Ophaelos and perhaps as if reading his mind she’d chuff to him. “Scout in training… come forward and share your report.”
* Ophaelos “I concur,” Ophaelos would say quietly. A lore night was much needed, just as these autumn events lined up were. How long had it been since the last lore night? Several months, he would reckon. When that would be all that Rook would offer, and Raine would seemingly pass up the opportunity to pledge herself to the pack, Ophaelos would begin his own boon of news once Kova called him forth. Dipping his head at the alpha fae, he would pause a respectful distance away from the stone before turning to meet everyone’s gaze, his tone solemn once he began his oration. “Much has happened to the territory in such a short time, I am unsure where to begin,” he would say. “To the south of this clearing, beyond the forest, lies a ravine that has seemingly ruptured from the earth’s surface. A large river courses through this new canyon, and so far, all seems safe within. The currents are strong, but surely a great spot for fishing,” he’d muse. “Through this canyon will bring one the sights of new rivers and much for the gander. The beloved scouting trails in this area, namely the trails that winded closer to the lake, are no longer present. New trails must still be scouted and forged, so be mindful when traveling, for getting lost may happen. I have left scent markers along the canyon and the land as it widened for everyone to use to help orient themselves in spots that seemed best for the new trails,” he says. His eyes would turn to Fianna when he offered his next news. “I found the recent tracks left behind by a pair of foxes by the lake during my travels. I am unsure where they are off to now, but it may be worth investigating later. The lake itself is also wider and larger, perhaps to accommodate the plethora of new rivers feeding from its source.” Ophaelos would continue once his report to Fianna had concluded, but would give those in the meeting time to simmer on the news brought forth so far. He had more to share. (OOC: Will post a follow-up message to this to prevent eye strain from too much text!) *ೃ༄
* Kova as Ophaelos would approach she dipped her head to him before perking her ears with great intent on hearing what he had to say. She hadn’t had the chance to connect with him for the scouting report and upon the unveiling of it all she sighed with contentment. Her tail swished, swung and a glance looked in Fianna’s direction then to Rook’s. A moment more then she’d be looking back to Ophaelos. “A fine and detailed report, Ophaelos, thank you! Do take care each of you, for I myself am re-learning as well. Speaking of new areas, while you where in the south west, I found a new flowing river to the east. It’s much larger than before and now falls from a terrace as well into the hunting grounds.” She turned a moment to the others then to Ophaelos she looked. “As part of your continued task in observation, I give you the opportunity to carve out a new scouting trail, so do so as you wish..”
* Ophaelos would nod to Kova’s notion. He had the say, it would seem? Oh, the possibilities… he’d try and prevent his mind from wandering as to stay on topic, and so he would continue. “After visiting the lake, I made the journey into the north where the scout trail seemed to still adhere to. My next stop was at the Fountain of Passing, and there is much to share there as well,” he informs. “Three new rivers pour from the Fountain of Passing, feeding into the main river that runs from the Great Crossing. If one follows these three brooks, they will be brought to something quite beautiful. A new spring, full of warm water, has formed a secluded oasis in the north. Steam rises from these calderas, a perfectly warm temperature for a wolf to bask in without injury or discomfort. The water is salty, however, so I do not recommend drinking it, for I am unsure if ingesting it is safe… but the area itself is beautiful and serene, almost ethereal. For those capable of making the journey up there, I highly recommend paying a visit to see it for yourselves. If any of you have visited the Hidden Falls, it is much like that—except even more magnificent, if you could imagine such a thing,” he says, offering a smile as he reimagines the oasis in his mind.
* Kova when the fae would approach and offered her words of pledge she would dip her nose and stand once more. “I hear your request, Raine, and see you stand before the pack now with it.” she would momentarily gaze to the members then back to the fae. “I hear it, and, I would grant your request. Your journey in joining WolfSpirits begins now by my blessing of naming you a pledge to the pack. This is your time to know your heart and to feel your paws true, and ensure that this is your place and where you desire to be. Use this time to know the others, grow closer to the pack and to the home you wish to call home.” She dipped her nose and stomped her paw. “I welcome you, Raine, pledge of WolfSpirits.”
* Cairdeas was being lulled back to sleep by all the excitement and talking. It was much like a hypnotizing lullaby though some may have been important. He merely seemed to lay there next to Fianna, Calder and Rook if all were still there and welcomed his shadow worlds embrace.
* Ophaelos would have reclaimed his previous seat in the grass once his report was done, his eyes turning toward Raine when she approached the stone. Had she finally garnered enough confidence to pledge? The snow wolf would watch her carefully before offering a firm stomp on the ground in celebration of their newest pledge and, hopefully, a new member. The pack thins in ranks lately, and with that, thins in helping paws when it comes to food and scouting. Even Ophaelos had begun to be scarce lately, something he would be adamant about correcting soon. Perhaps the autumn tournaments would give him such an opportunity, but thou shall see once those events come to fruition.
* Rook The newcomer would approach and ask as many had before her. The answer would be the same, but a shared preface to another story did not mean the ensuing tale would be the same. On the contrary, this one’s tale might be quite different. When the question was asked and answered, he too would stamp his paw to the earth below in recognition of a newly named pledge.
* Fianna Lead guardian as she was Fianna would watch Rain closely as she made her request, weighing the fae’s demeanor and tones if not more so than the words spoken. She would seek to meet the fae herself in the coming days, to greet her and know her better. It was good to see the pack growing, but always a small part of Fianna would remain reserved with newcomers, the depths of her affections and trust held until full measure was earned. For now, she would feel her tail sway with eagerness for the fae’s new journey.
* Kova she moved her hues to the sky a moment if only to gauge the moon’s position or the stars before looking to the others. Aware of the time and the hours passing, she turned once more to the rest. She shifted her silvery hued gaze to her court a moment. A long, lingering gaze perhaps would befall his figure before she looked back to the others. “Thank you to each of you for attending and heeding this call and gathering. I will happily conclude tonights meeting.” she stomped her paw softly. “Rest well, for soon I shall call a hunt.”
Cairdeas, Ceol, Maeve, Ada, Leora
* Kova the distance to the stone was closed in short order, and once upon it’s base she would rise up and stand at it’s end. There, she would howl for a pack meeting and gathering. AWooooooo!
*Rowan The Scouting Trail, and into the woods. She would be unknowingly heading towards Rune’s cache. She was briskly trotting along, eager to speak with other wolves. She had been alone with her thoughts for too long, and she was heading specifically for the clearing due to it being a popular place amongst the pack.
*Saskia A dark head rises from the brush as the Guardian’s auds register a howl within the clearing. She’s hidden in foliage at the moment but the sound of Kova would draw her from her slumber, paws carrying her quickly South and towards the clearing.
*Vesper gaze would follow the Alphess and others as they passed, her ears and tail pricking as the howl was raised–a howl familiar, a howl of meeting! She’d rise, looking back to Cairdeas and Panther as she rounded the stone, seating herself not too close, not too far–she’d be able to see and hear all that went on, with hopefully no need to corral rowdy pups! Surely, the shorter ones would take the front-row seats–Vesper preferred not craning her neck up to see, anyways 😛
* Ophaelos had been resting in the southern tree line after greeting the newcomer, who had made herself scarce, and seemingly far too soon, for a distinct howl would rouse the wolf to lift his head from his paws. Having been here many new moons, the snow wolf had memorized the call for a meeting well enough to know that was it. The brute wouldn’t be too far away from alpha rock when he had begun to approach, likely taking a seat by himself at the southwest of the rock. If one wished to make themselves comfortable beside him, he wouldn’t complain, but would simply focus his eyes upon Kova until otherwise. *ೃ༄
* Saskia As the she moved along the trees, she’d perk her ears and pause as she caught the sound of another howl. However, this was one quite smaller and less urgent. It sounded like a pup. Saskia gently chuckled and continued until she finally broke into the clearing, her gait slowing significantly.
*Fianna
* Ophaelos
* Kova
*Calder the brute would make a hurried pace towards the direction of the clearing for the howl would be heard from far and wide, at least into the hunting grounds. He would break the eastern woods and there enter into the clearing as silently as he could, to ensure he not break protocol or the respect it deserved. If he saw Fianna near, he’d seat himself near.
*Redwing
* Ophaelos
*Grimolf
*Kova
don’t be suspicious, don’t be suspicious! ❁༺*Vesper
*Panther
*Kova
*Vesper
* Kova as the fae would come forward she seemed a little timid, or perhaps questioning the reason behind her call. There would be a lightness to her expression, conveying there was not a need to freight. “Vesper, you have been a pledge of our home and have learned and grown with us. You have done much for the pack, including helping to care for the pups.” she’d smile. “I would like to ask you now, do you still desire WolfSpirits to be your home?”
*Grimolf Vesper hadn’t even left for an minute and this new brute already was starting to annoy him . “ What ? “ Grimolf said quietly not an ounce of amusement in his tone . His voice was painfully dull and impatient wanting to get this answer from him quickly . ( “ Bloodless moon ? What on earth were they talking about ?! “ )
* Vesper tawny form would relax at Kova’s expression and words, but her question would stir the butterflies back into the fae’s stomach—these butterflies held the answer, as she still knew, perhaps after these last moons, now more than ever. “I still wish, Alphess,” Vesper replied surely, a soft, small smile taking its place on her own maw. “I do still hope to call this pack my home.”
*Saskia her mate’s tones were drowned in her own thoughts for a moment before coming back to reality. As Ophaelos joined their flanks, Saskia nosed his shoulder in her own way of showing her happiness for him! “Congrats, O..” She whispered with a warm gaze. Then, Vesper was called forward. Saskia shifted on her paws and listened intently to their conversation. Vesper had truly shown her intent on making this place her home and these wolves her family in many more ways than one. For a brief moment, she caught the scent of her earthen spirit mother, and turned her head to find the gaze of the bear. She waved her tail and perked her ears to show she was excited to see her, perhaps she was engulfed in an array of little ones. Her head turned to meet Grimolf’s and.. Redwing’s frames. Would she find the annoyance upon Grim’s features? If so, she’d leave it for now.
*Redwing Well, he could tell by the context of the proceedings that preceded part of Grimolf’s response that this was not to be a ritualistic sacrifice. Good, it wouldn’t do for the pups to see such a thing. Now, whether he heard the lack of amusement in this one’s voice or not didn’t matter. Grimolf didn’t look amusing in the same way unbuttered toast didn’t look appetizing, that was the point! Redwing was prescient enough to not respond to Grimolf while the others were talking, but he did look at him a few more times. If he didn’t know about the bloodless moon, which was just the regular moon by the way…that was the low-hanging fruit, then that must make for some dull cloudless nights!
*Kova she would look to Vesper and offer a swing of her tail to her response. “As an Assessment of Wolfspirits, you will learn and grow even beyond just what you’ve already gained in your heart, in knowing that WolfSpirits is the home you desire. You will be given a mentor.”
*Calder he would be seated beside Fianna and the others when he heard his name called. He rose a curious brow. Perhaps not thinking his name would be mentioned to mentor, but, he’d rise and bow his head. He looked to Vesper, giving to her a sturdy nod. “I would be honored to mentor Vesper.” he said in deep tones.
* Rook Another would approach the stone and another would accept advancement. Rook would stamp his paw to the earth below in congratulations to Vesper and to the choice of mentor. The Son of Ash would be a fine mentor to see Vesper through to membership. Could he see Calder’s reaction to this news? For that matter…could he see his own charges present among the group? In that passing scan of those gathered, he caught sight of Redwing beside Grimolf and sighed.
*Vesper heart leapt into her throat and back again at Kova’s words. Assessment! Mentor! Calder! Home… hopefully! Vesper’s tail would wave gently, and she’d bow her head to the Alphess once more. “Thank you, Alphess,” she said, entirely failing to conceal the hopefullness, joy, the surprise in her tones. “I will learn and do all I can to be worthy of this title.”
*Grimolf If wolves could grit their teeth Grimolf would be doing so ! It took every piece of him not to react to this brute despite his burning anger telling to do otherwise ! The scarred brute turned his head back towards the meeting blinking slowly hoping the other had their fill of amusement for one meeting . He wasn’t in the mood to be dealing with wolves that thought they could jest and play the fool especially during meetings . Grimolf started to notice those who were present starting to look in their direction . Just wonderful, he was getting attention without lifting a paw ! Another sly comment and that was it for them !
*Fianna would be there, listening quietly as Vesper moved toward advancement, being placed beneath her own mate to be mentored! She would give Calder a brief nuzzle and ear lick and her tail swayed for them both. He’d not mentored another before, other than their pups and she was happy to see him gain this opportunity. He was certainly equal to the task. Fianna would let her gaze travel over those around her, enjoying the pack scattered but close about, spotting Grimolf beside her youngest brother and his frame tense, his expression dark. Fianna would feel her fur prickle some, but she would relax it soon enough, her gaze lingering on Redwing and his own demeanor. A sigh would slip from.her, unbeknownst to her an echo of her brother’s. She would perk back to Vesper and her words!
*Redwing Mind you, quotations mark dialogue in the standard style of common writing, so when these little doodads were slung together to make words and syntax, they were done so using the inside voice. He’d be thoroughly impressed if that old grandpappy stogy, Oph could hear his thoughts from here, but those new belltones were technological wonders of modern time; maybe there was a mindreader setting? He’d have to get those sweet AARP discounts and soon. Redwing was not amused in the slightest either. Grim was not amusing, amused, or both? Maybe just buttered side down? Regardless, this one who looked like he had a name already wore scars like words, but he wasn’t one to say just what those meant, so why should he care? Well, he did, but Grim was far too selective in the strangers he opened up to. You know what we do with stubborn cans? We get the can opener! Mind you, he just infrequently continued to cast dark glances toward Grim as though he was investigating a crime scene.
* Cairdeas had listened, all he wanted was Kova’s name he already knew her as Alpha, but not Alphess… Interesting… As he made notes he was glad to learn it was still ok to call her such so he had not made a mistake per se, but yet he had, “Kova, I see.” He decided to just make Panther think he did not know any of it. He knew he would feel like an idiot giving someone information they already had. As Vesper was called an assessment Cairdeas stamped his paws and emitted a puppy howl, perhaps a bit late, because learning and stuff.
* Vesper
*Vesper would pad away from the Alpha stone on light-padding paws and with an even lighter heart, her eyes scanning for Calder in those gathered—he’d be by Fianna, yes, there he was, indeed—and she’d make her way to the two, hopefully seating herself close to them if there was room. She’d dip her head to both Fianna and Calder, but words could wait until after the meeting—for now, her joy would simply be apparent in her shining gaze.
* Rook The situation behind him seemed contained enough, so he returned his attention forward. The report of the north did leave out the east, but he was thankful for missing part. All that was needed to be known was that the pack had dispatched with Kaylus and the Olc at their doorstep. To that and to his court’s words, he would stamp his paws.
*Calder when Vesper would make her way over to himself and Fianna, seating nearby he would dip his head in a mutual greeting to her before his hues fell back to Kova and the words shared. A deep weight would fall to his stomach. The mention of his sisters demise and the packs vanquished from the north, he hoped now the Olc can be put behind them and something new could and will come of it.
*Ada was happy to hear about Vesper’s advancement. Vesper, by her measures, seemed like a friendly and kind she-wolf who deserved to be here. Then she listened as Kova made a long speech. What was going on now? She was as curious as ever, like she was a little pup begging her parents for a story all over again. That was a sad thought, in hindsight. What would happen now? She maintained her focus on the Alpha far ahead of her.
*Redwing didn’t know that questions were trouble. He also didn’t know that Vesper was a pup or that he, for that matter was a pup. He was as old as Leora, but contextural clues from inner monologue…ah, ah, ah I caught you takin’ a peek, were likely enough to give an unsuitable impression. No, Redwing chose to be a sweet and spicy dichotomy, or, at the very least, a blazingly clear mirror. Peek a boo! Redwing had likely would have had enough of Grimolf if Grimolf would’ve…oh, almost gave the secret away. Nope! Instead, Redwing just stamped his paws again to the news of whoever it was dying in the north. Good, they likely deserved it!
* Kova she would make note of each wolf’s notions and their responses in kind. A strong dip of her head was given again before she would turn once more to the gathered. Her eyes scanned the wolves and those present before offering. “Should any desire to come forward and speak, I open the earth for you to step forward and let your voice be heard.” Ada was a new wolf among the group, and she had only recently just met the fae.
*Kova she would continue to look over the wolves present and those who would remain seated, and those who might approach. Her tail ushered a gentle wave before stilling when Ada would come forward. Heer hues watched her and to her request she’d respond. “Ada, welcome.” her nose dipped. “As you have requested to join our fold, I would say to you that your first step to joining us is to become a Pledge. This is the time where you seek for your hearts purpose and ensure that you desire it to belong to WolfSpirits as your home. As this is your current desire, then, I would like to name you Pledge of WolfSpirits.”
* Calder he would look to Ada, a fae he only briefly met throughout his time here. Her scent lingered but he hadn’t formally talked to the fae. When she requested to join, he smiled. He stomped his paw lightly for the new pledge of their home.
* Redwing
* Ada couldn’t believe what she’d just heard. She’d done it, she’d really done it. She had taken the first step to joining this pack. She was a pledge now, this was the beginning of a wonderful journey she’d undertake. She wasn’t an outsider anymore. She was starting to belong here. Ada couldn’t wait to see what else would happen as she continued forward during her time here. One thing was for sure, she intended to stay. When she had said she wanted a real home, she meant it. This was going to be her home, so long as all went well. She realized that in all the excitement, she had forgotten to respond. “Thank you! Oh, thank you!” Then she stepped away and settled back down where she was seated before, in absolute awe and disbelief that she really was on a brighter path now, her life’s course on a better trajectory than it had ever known before. Her world was only just beginning to change, and she was already in love with that
* Kova she would grin and stomp her paw once more. Would she hear Cairdeas speaking throughout the meeting? Questions of course abound for a pup, but a chance to perhaps learn that one will also listen in quiet patience for those things to be shared later. When Ada would be announced a pledge, her hues fell to Grim. “Grim.. please come forward” she would call to the brute.
* Kova she would grin and stomp her paw once more. Would she hear Cairdeas speaking throughout the meeting? Questions of course abound for a pup, but a chance to perhaps learn that one will also listen in quiet patience for those things to be shared later. When Ada would be announced a pledge, her hues fell to Grim. “Grim.. please come forward” she would call to the brute.
* Grimolf
* Kova when the brute would come forward below the stone, she would look to him with serious hues. Her tones would match her expression which would be light, but toned. Her eyes perhaps searching Grim’s more closely than others. “Grim, you have been a pledge to our home for the duration in which it would take to seek a home. I would ask you now, Grim, as your time as a pledge, do you still desire to call WolfSpirits home?”
*Panther listened, nodding to Cairdeas. His gaze trained on Kova as she continued, she didn’t call anyone up this time. Instead, she spoke on the North. That topic had bugged him ever since the fire’s, but now having learned a few ‘Teller wolves had been in the territory, that bugged him too. He reminded himself to ask Fianna about it, if she wanted to share. The darkness in the North seemed snuffed out, and so he would allow a sway of his tail to show before it stilled. Then, Ada, a wolf unknown to him was named Pledge. He looked to Stick, smiling a bit, he nosed him. “A heart has its purpose, my hearts purpose was to pledge myself to WolfSpirits and become the rank of Hunter. Just like my heart had pledged itself to Saskia, to be her other half.” He paused, “One day, your hearts purpose will make itself known.” He added, and his green orbs settled on Kova as she called Grimolf forward. Then, he waited, is Grim going to be named an assessment?
*Redwing Didn’t yet have old stogy’s mind-reading belltones, so only had the physical cues to go off of, which indicated that Grim was about as serious as heart disease. Redwing likely lacked the patience to know why Grimolf was the way he was. Anyone who didn’t like questions or took themselves too seriously, kinda like his brother, were wolves that had far too easy weaknesses to exploit. Loss of control was a weakness his dark hues saw in Grimolf, but he’d not push him farther. When the brute went up to be named, he’d steal away to go and sit by Leora. She was better at living life!
* Saskia
*Grimolf
* Kova she would look to Grim and await his response with curious but close eyes. When he offered the tones of a heart wanting to continue on a path to home, she would nod. “As an Assessment of WolfSpirits, you will follow the path of not just your heart, but the ways of the pack. You will learn and grow alongside those you desire to call family.” She would wait a moment more before she’d continue. “You will learn the ways of the pack from a mentor.” she looked to the gathered wolves, in particular, the members of the pack. “Your mentor will be our Lore Master, Rook.” her hues fell to her court a moment before turning to Grim. Perhaps gauging his reaction to the mentor chosen. “Are you willing to uphold the rules, learn the rules and ways of our pack and accept your mentors guidance?”
* Fianna wwould be glad to hear Grimolf’s simple but effective answer. As she had told him earlier today, time and action would show and tell his heart far better than words or brooding looks. Fianna would look toward Rook as he was named mentor once more. Perhaps this assessment would be more eager to learn? Fianna would hope so.
*Grimolf Kova’s words rang in his ears not fully letting the brute comprehend his current situation . Formerly a pledge to the WS’s pack and now an official assessment to the pack ! Grimolf had been so worried about his current standing from his behaviour that he completely lost any hope of raising through the ranks during the following moons . The scarred brute stayed silent listening closely to Kova explain his new rank and title occasionally nodding to show that he was fact listening fully. The next sentence definitely caught his attention ! A mentor that was mentioned by one of the pack members moons ago and now it was actually happening ! Then came the name of his mentor : the lore master rook . A careful gaze followed Kova’s staring at the future teacher . “ I’m willing to uphold the rules and learn the ways of the pack , accepting my mentors guidance . “ He repeated , adding his own touch to the vow . So, mr story teller was going to be his mentor, huh ? This was going to be interesting .
* Ophaelos would stomp his paw on the ground when Kova would name him an assessment and a breath would release from his lungs soon after. Things were looking up for the broody wolf, and now that he was under Rook’s guidance, he felt sure enough that his behavior from here on out would be pleasant enough. Becoming an assessment is a testament to this already. Reflecting on previous feelings, the brute would not necessarily feel proud of him for achieving basic decency, but he would most certainly be relieved, and happy on his behalf. He remembered the day he was assigned to Saskia as an assessment and how happy he was, and the snow wolf would simply hope Grimolf felt the same about his new mentor. When things would wrap up with Grimolf and Rook, his eyes would sway across the gathered wolves and return to Kova. Would anyone else be fortunate enough to step up to the stone tonight, or would that be all? Quietly, he would await the alphess’s next words.*ೃ
* Rook
* Cairdeas had waited for the others to react and stomped both paws, almost jumping forward, but more in place. He may have looked up to Panther seeing if that was alright?
* Grimolf The broody brute for once couldn’t help, but let himself smile . Not just any smile, but a genuine smile in front of the entire pack . Showing them a more positive side that wasn’t common for the brute reveal . Grimolf had prepared himself to be exiled or torn apart for his recent behaviours, but this he couldn’t of predicted ! Grimolf bowed his head letting the moment / really / sink in for him . This was real and this was happening for him ! The brute had found his purpose — he had found a reason to live again . Although, he was overwhelmed by this joyous occasion ! Grimolf truthfully didn’t know how to properly react only offering that smile . Stepping away from the stone, he’d return to his original seat beside Redwing .
*Vesper So Grimolf would be named as well! Vesper had taken her first step as pledge, and now the two of them would step forwards, forward to a future, to hope. She’d stamp her paw, a forlorn, sorrowed look filling her eye as she remembered one who had pledged beside her as well, one named Elder, one named Amoux… the sorrow would leave her gaze as quickly as it had arrived, but an aching hope and remembrance would remain.
*Redwing
*Leora
* Rook turned his gaze to his court after the brief survey of those still here. Those present seemed keen on celebrating their advancements, and he was not one to dissuade that. He also had nothing to add, having given only the opening thoughts to a Lore Night. He’d find the time to schedule one soon, he thought. Much lore was to be shared.
*Grimolf a nod was returned to Leora on his way back over to the “ fun corner “ . Internally, Grimolf had been so insistent about this annoying brute leaving him alone or better yet moving away from him, but here we was sitting back down next to him . The dark brute was many things and stubborn was definitely one of them ; this was his spot and he wouldn’t leave it because of some brat .Grimolf would stay a little longer before calling it a night .
* Redwing
* Kova
Kova As she remained in the clearing her hues fell to the time of day. The sun would be pulling in and out between some clouds as the sun cast it’s light sparingly. She took in a few deep breaths before she swiftly shook her frame and coat. Now was the time. Now they would rid of their fire. A deep breath escaped her lungs in a long , drawn sigh before she would take another full gap of air into her lungs and let loose a deep, low howl.
awwwwwwwwooooOOoOOOOOOoooooo
A call to those who would be headed north was made as she now faced that direction and would hopefully see each she’s named.
* Rook While others were deep in conversation and conjecture, he would press deeper into the clearing via the river’s shallow crossing. Rook would be on the southern bank by the time the fated call came to gather, and gather he would. Farther south and closer to the Alpha’s stone, he might catch sight of Ophaelos and move to find his spot upon his path and side. What then of the others? Rook would cast his gaze about the clearing and note many who had been present at the naming of the north-bound few…
* Leora the howl would reach her well and clear as she was in the clearing by now, to. She would look out across the horizon and to each wolf who was present. At the howl more began to gather and among them she saw her brother. Her paws quickly ushered beneath her as she aimed to close the distance to him and rather quickly. A low chuff was offered, if only to announce herself.
*Ophaelos When Ophaelos would arrive at the stone, he’d turn his head to observe who was in attendance and who was not. It would seem Rowan and Rook had appeared in time, save for the Lead Huntress who was likely approaching not too far away now. To those who were part of the group, including Kova, he would dip his head toward. However, it would seem it wasn’t just the wolves called forward for the journey to be gathered around the stone, but rather, he would find the frame of Grimolf in the string of wolves. A suspicious brow was quirked his way, but his glance wouldn’t last longer than a few seconds before he would focus on the Alphess’ figure upon the stone. Upon the request of final words, Ophaelos would simply say, “To the North we shall go.” Simple words, short words, yet enough to communicate that the brute was ready for the journey. He would look toward the wolves gathered to see if they held the same sentiments, and would keep his ears pricked should they or should they not
* Rook Regardless of whether Ophaelos felt or noted his presence beside him, Rook would have taken the path to assemble nearest where those going north were. This would likely take him near enough to Leora, and even if not, she seemed keen to be near him at the last. When light met dark in the growing presence of the Alpha’s rock and what decisions were to be handed down from it, dark would take solace in the other’s presence; Rook would be made better for Leora at his side. A kindness was gifted him from her that he could not fully repay, but he hoped that he could in time. Now came the time to listen as the last of the details unfolded. The last of the preparations were to be made, and he would keenly listen to mention of the mask tied to Shakira. It was something he had not fully investigated and so was only slightly less ignorant than most. Others had gathered near the stone that had not been called to the north, which would cause Rook to grant the same suspicious gaze toward Grim in particular before looking to those that were not present. Just how many had made themselves ready should the pack lands come under threat? How could he know when they were not present?
* Shakira Drawing near the Alphas Rock, she would notice a fair amount of wolves near or at least recently near, their scents lingering as if to taunt those that were meant to leave them behind. As Kova approached, she would nose her scruff gently in greeting, giving a firm nod to her words. “I will carry it, the burden was my mothers, then brothers, and now mine.” She responded softly, still unsure of what purpose the mask held within her family, but she would carry the heirloom all the same. Looking to those gathered, she would wait for the next step and move as the Alpha bade.
* Leora She knew the time was now, and the time would tick regardless of how her heart had hurt for it to not feel so pained. She would pull her nose into her brothers chest before stepping back. “Brother… take this tale with you before you go…?” it would be a soft question, but with a following gaze that would hold an eagerness to share.
*Vesper could hardly hear a word or two from the Alphess’ lips, but she saw dark and creamy specks of wolves as they gathered to the Alpha Stone…perhaps any that glanced in the direction of the den-hill would see a faint blob of creamy fur watching from above as well. It pained her to not be down there with them, and she’d let a quiet, anxious whine leave her own maw. How many goodbyes would she miss for good in her whole life? She’d missed so many from her own pack, and now this…
*Grimwolf The scarred brute wouldn’t be surprised to find a few suspicious glances towards his direction, he did make somewhat of an scene back at the meeting, and really wasn’t called upon . Grimolf didn’t pay any mind to them only waiting for Kova’s reaction to the unexpected guest . When her head dipped towards the pair, it didn’t seem like the Alpha was implying that the pledge wasn’t welcome, so he’d stick around until one of them chased him off . “ May warriors fortune shine upon us . “ A traditional Far Northern saying that dated back thousands of moons, it was something that brought confidence to the brute . Grimolf would harbour no regrets or second thoughts . Whatever happened on this trip, he openly embraced it .
* Rook The task of the mask and its keeping were not his, but he would keep an ear trained to what conversation remained thereof while turning a pensive gaze toward his younger sister. With a dark understanding, he spoke quietly and as gently as he could through the resolve his tone likely carried. “I will hear it, dear light. Speak it and I will hear it.”
Leora
* Rook What did physicists know of the mass of light? What of its weight as felt on a warm summer’s eve or a cold winter’s morning? No, perhaps the bards and poets knew this one a little better…that light lightened hearts and made burdens to be endured. Still, the chasm that had opened between them had done so with merciless abandon. Absolution resided in that chasm, and he was bade to fall within its depths… Although her tones and words wrought the foundations of this conviction they had gifted him what may be a final mercy and opportunity. “Feicim thú, solas, agus tá aithne agam ort. No matter where I go, I will see you and I will know you. You, who have given and fated name, daughter of starfall and earth…I name you heir of your father and mother in my stead and against all other claim.” Rook would lower his head and press the crown of it to Leora’s, whispering, “Should it try, know that death will not divide us so long as a tale lives within your voice.”
* Rook when the first of a few junctions in the path swiftly arose at the Ancient Forest’s border, Rook, along with those other nearby would stop and listen to Kova’s command. He would not advocate for the others to move through the Ancient Forest, even if guided; so, Rook would begin along the second shortest path toward the Crossing outside of the western edge of the Ancient Forest and north until the sound of stream offered the clearest path northwest.The northwesterly stream would cut through and alongside poplar and other birch forests on its path toward the Great Crossing. The sound of such water might cull the edge from the task ahead or it may hone it to an atom’s thickness like flinted obsidian. Rook would look to those around him to see which of those two options was likely…best to have a lay of the land before climbing the mountain, so to speak.
Moving the northern group rp to #culling-the-olcBeyond the tree line and further up the path the wolves would go. As the party moved along the familiar path to the great crossing, they where afforded a swifter pace for most where indeed familiar with this trail in and out. Nothing of the landscape changed beyond the roaring of water.
A familiar rock outcrop, fresh with fallen rock fall would come into view. Those who where around to see the demise of the three black wolves who didn’t make it out of their home alive, would know what gravely lay beneath. Perhaps a skeleton or two could be seen amongst the rubble, laying just positioned to be in view on purpose. Scavengers having already done their work left nothing but the bone.
* Grimwolf During the long journey that seemed to stretch far and wide the brute was silent not speaking only scanning the horizon for any signs of other wolves . Grimolf’s attention would briefly be displaced by the sight of the large family of elk, he wouldn’t pay them much mind returning his iron focus back onto keeping alert. The scarred brute would be near the back of the group making sure to keep their rear flank guarded whilst the others at the front worried about making decisions on where to go and how best to approach .
* Kova as the group of wolves would continue along their trek towards the north, she would slow when a wayward wind would afford her all the smells of the party, but one that wasn’t called and one not named. The scent was tailing behind. She would begin to slow her pace from a lope to a trot, then she finally peered over her shoulder at Grim who was behind the rest. She narrowed her hues if only to shield against the wind already blowing in their path. She barked low so he could hear. “Grim, you where not called to the north. Are you here to see us to the end of the great crossing?” she only slowed a little, for she would not hinder their progress unless absolutely needed.
* Shakira She would follow after the group, grateful that there wasn’t need to go through the eerie forest she avoided thoroughly, following as the Lore Master curved their path just sidelong of the Ancient Forest and northward along the stream. As Kova rejoined them and took her rightfully assigned place at the lead, she would retrieve her mother’s mask from Kovas maw before again following in silence, her teeth holding the sturdy yet somehow delicate trinket with a gentleness that made her heart pang slightly. When Kova would turn to address the brooder male, she would pause as well and step slightly sideways to look to the male as well and to offer clear vantage for the pair to speak.
* Rook only picky scavengers let bones lie, but Rook might catch sight of the skeletal debris of a once living wolf. Whether it was an Olc or some ill-begotten soul sold on the narrative of fire’s promise was not his concern. Today, ignorance would not be the means of salvation; all under that banner would meet an equal fate if he had his way. Imagine, then, that mindset when someone came along the path they had traveled -hours- on. Rook would take cues from Kova and from Shakira, but his posture would speak less of a neutral pose. What had Grim come to do this far away from the clearing? For Grim’s sake, he hoped it was not to defy Kova’s word.
* Ophaelos the chilly breeze that swept from behind the group would be welcoming against his hot skin, cooling his nerves, yet wouldn’t last long when the undeniable scent of Grimolf accompanied it. Perhaps it was Kova, leading the charge, who noticed it first, but as his head swung behind his shoulder, his eyes would narrow just as sharply as the Alphess’ words. Aye—he was not called to the North, nor did he offer or ask to attend, and even if he did, Ophaelos would feel a certain way about it regardless. Grimolf had shown through many encounters, including this one, that he was insolent and reckless. Although the white wolf had seen some growth in him and had played nice, he was certainly not entirely trustworthy. In fact, his inability to control his temperament—a temper that was impertinent—was seen as a hindrance to Ophaelos, who couldn’t help but furrow his brows at the brute who had followed them so closely behind. Why invite him to such a serious task, when he was proven to be unreliable? When Shakira would step away for Kova to access him, he would too, his gaze shifting back toward the path ahead of them, yet his ear remained swiveled in their direction to listen to their exchange. He wouldn’t interject his feelings on the matter. After all, it was Kova’s call alone.
* Grimolf “ I understand that, Alphaess ! “ Grimolf barked back in equal volume getting closer towards Kova . “ I’m aware of my rank and status within the pack, but I ask you to consider allowing me to named to go North . “ Grimolf’s tone was filled with determination despite the wind muffing most of his sentence . “ Let me prove to you and the rest of the pack that my warrior ways can be of use here . . . if not I’ll accept whatever your decision, Alphess . “ The scarred brute knew following them this far to the great crossing could be seen as disobedience but his heart burned with resolve !
* Kova she would give Grim the benefit of the doubt and not assume the brute would have followed without asking first, for the howl was not an invitation for any to join along. She’d not fault him for that not being clear initially but would she invite another? Rowan having already requested to join had pulled the numbers a little more balanced. But would Grim? He had been present during the meeting when those named, where named, why not speak then of his desire to go?
( https://g.co/kgs/P2Lrse )
Wolven sentries upon the stone, same as last Rook saw and reported.* Kova A deep breath escaped half parted jowls as the confidence from her soul reached their ears once they where all re-grouped.
“The stone-kin will prove worthy, but we should be ready for what devilry is in place. If stone alone does not kill them, then let us force them to use their tricks from a distance and close the gap swiftly afterwards. Guile, cunning, and steadfast will, will, see us through…” He could only agree that death be the only option.
* Kova there would be a heavy feeling of many things in her stomach, but she couldn’t help but know and feel the warmth of pride for those of her pack and those of her family out weigh most. How strong and true they were. She trusted Shakira’s prowess and her skill and she placed equal to those now present. To Shakira’s words, she’d feel it’s strength. To her courts suggestion, she would give a firm and agreeable nod. “Agreed.” she would look to each wolf in turn. “We see the end of them either by stone, or by jaws.”
July 2nd, 2023
* Kova as the wolves sought refugee within the smaller cavern, it was enough for all of them to fit rather comfortably. By mid-afternoon the air was growing warmer but still not as warm as the valley below in the clearing itself.
As the day was growing older, the sun was setting just enough to still provide enough light for the wolves and the path made very clear. The fae hadn’t slept much either and she would turn an ear to those who awaited and now their day had come. “Is everyone ready?” she would turn to each wolf now approaching the mouth of the cavern to call those either near or around it. Her limbs would be caked in a small layer of mud. “Shakira, there’s a small mud puddle just nearby I dug through enough to be moist and allow a good coating.”
* Shakira Her ears would perk to the Alphas words and her paws would instinctively lift her to heed the words spoken, a sure nod given as she turned to scoop the mask gently into her jaws before venturing out to where the puddle could be seen dug out. “Ready at your word, my Alpha.” She responded as she set the mask to the side before plunging shoulder first into the mud, not one to shy away from a mess she would quickly roll to her back to cover as much as she could without assistance. Rising to her paws once more, she would resist the urge to shake the thicker clumps from her, relying on those clumps to be her cover.
* Rook
* Ophaelos
* Kova
* Rook After the deed was finished and Ophaelos drew to his flank, Rook would regard the assurances given. “Cunning, and if that is not enough then a ferocity that rips them limb from limb. I will not hope now this close to death, but I will look for the necessary path to see you safely home.” It was all he could say before he turned his entire focus to Kova and the prelude to a dirge.
* Shakira She would release the mask to Kova as she smothered it in the sticky mud as well before pressing it to her face, the mold of another wolf’s face seeming to fit almost flawlessly to her own, as if it was meant to fit her. Dark grey eyes would peer out from the mask as she took in the wolves around her for what felt like the last time, her heart swelling with pride. “I will not fail you, we will see this done, together.” She spoke firmly before pressing her mask clad forehead briefly back against Kovas in as much of a nuzzle as she could offer without disturbing the mud. “I will see you all on the other side.” She said with a last gaze cast to the rest before she would slink off towards the enemies lair, determination in her stride as she kept her eyes trained on the flicker in the distance and the shadows that might conceal enemy wolves.
* Kova she would give a strong nod to Shakira, and her gaze held the fae’s for a moment more. She would find strength in Shakira’s eyes and the determination she had would fuel her own spirit. A heartfelt emotion rampaged through her. A fire and a kinship she’d feel strengthen her own resolve.
@Shakira would notice the same three sentry wolves remained a top the cavern. The familiar lapping of amber light would still caress the dark cavern walls, suggesting that whatever they where protecting, remained so. No sign of Kaylus or sound of her either, but the wolves a top seemed to be relaxed enough. So far… unaware of what was about to happen. She would be greeted with the same howling wind as before and the earth dappled with a late snow.
* Ophaelos .ೃ࿐ “Aye, we will see it done,” Ophaelos says to Rook. His silver, smokey eyes would capture the vastness of the landscape before them with a certain determination sheening against their color. May Fenrir be on their side tonight, and may all of their ancestors grant them their strength.
* Shakira She would move swiftly and silently through the landscape of rocks, carefully weaving through until she drew near the opening, keeping to the shadows as best she could as she noticed the sentries still in their place. They knew the WolfSpirits were coming, surely, though surprise was still on their side with Kovas plan in motion. Pausing as she was within a few hundred strides of the opening to the flickering cavern, she would take a few moments to steady herself, looking to the rocks above as if she could see her packmates, but the distance would be too grate and the lack of light unforgiving. Taking a deep breath, she would wait only a moment longer before stepping from the shadows, the dark mud covering would likely only offer her a few strides before the enemy would notice her.
As Shakira approached the cavern, perhaps she’d feel the very ground becoming harder and strong with each approaching pace. As if warmth of summer didn’t even unfreeze this landscape. Suddenly a low bellowing chuff was given to break the silence. A clear and resounding call of “WARNING” the moment they would notice the dark wolf stepping out from the shadows. Tension would be felt like a fresh storm of electricity in the air ready to strike. The Lead huntress would no doubt cast her eyes to the wolves, she would find that upon observation of the wolves in their sentry positions, there would be a particular wolf that would reach out in remembrance to Shakira’s long lost memories. Shakira would recall this being the very same male her former Alpha female ran off with. What was he doing here? Could it really be him? Just then the mask against her jaws would almost humm? Was that the wind again? A cold chill would reverberate along Shakira’s spine but then grow warm with familiarity.
Was a piece of her past now shared in this mask with her? She’d suddenly see a play on light within the masks reflection. A familiar tawny hued wolf, more straw in color, would come into view running with the mask in maw. Safety is what she felt, then followed shortly in vision would be her brother Syfka with the mask, carefully placing it in a secure place in the territory of WolfSpirits.
Shakira knew this to be a sign of warning and connection.
“State your name and business quick then be on your way!” the brutes tones would be harsh and lapped with a deepness to it. To the fae’s defiant tones the black wolf would grow strangely rigid and shocked in expression. “Kastria… ” the male wolf would utter in an almost disgustful tone. There would be an evil expression that washed over his face. “Fate is funny, then, for I’m afraid that your foolish endevour will see you stain this earth well before our own. ” his tongue lashed across his teeth. “… and how kind of you to bring me another trinket for my Alpha. Most pleased indeed.” The brutes head snapped and he barked. “AFTER HER!” suddenly all three wolves, each black and darker then the last would hesitate not even a second and off they tore, including the big dark brute from Shakira’s past.
* Kova
* Shakira A Huntress by nature and call, she would feel the rush of the hunt urge her paws to dig in and wait for just the right moment before she would turn and race away from her pursuers. She would have only a moments glance to see the gleam of fangs flashing before she would be off, the male who stole her former Alpha away would see his demise this day, her heart boiling at the thought.
* Shakira
Shakira would see the gorge’s entrance and make for it swiftly and with speed. The water would still be turbulant as it would continue it’s meandering course with fresh snow melt. The fae’s skillful paws would see her safely through the narrow passage, and the wolves above in their positions would see her enter first, with 4 black wolves at her heels. There was just enough space between, however, that would afford Shakira a small break before the stones could fall. The time was now.
* Kova she would feel the racing of her heart as her hues fell to the gorge and then back to where Shakira was leading their prey. Swiftly, now, swiftly and carefully she would whisper in her mind as if it could some how touch Shakira.
* Rook
* Rowan
* Rook
* Kova
* Rowan As stones fell, her heart would hammer in her chest. The cloud of dust rose, and the yelps met her ears. It all seemed so.. satisfying. Until, she noticed her mentor was no where to be found. Had the stones caught Shakira too? No. That wasn’t true, she was safe. They just couldn’t see her, right? She was safe. Yellow orbs never wavered as she searched beneath the cloud of doom for movement, she held her breath. Her heart hammering in her ears, almost deafening.
* Shakira She would see the tint of red as it flowed through the water, the stream undeterred by the rocks in its path. With a a soft snort through her nose, she would narrow her eyes to the pile of rock. “May you never know the grace of a gentle spirit, and forever find pain and darkness in your next path.” She uttered under her breath, sealing a closure she never knew she needed. As she heard the cries of her packmates, she would make to move towards the cliffside and offer a loud bark that ended in a strangled cry of her own. As her body stretched to move, she would feel white hot pain along her left ribs and center of her back, her legs crumpling as the adrenaline wore off. Unable to see the gash along her ribs, she would be left immobile for now, though she would find breath enough to emit a low howl so the wolves would know her location.
* Rook Several small fragments of time like shattered glass lay strewn about the fray represented in the hues of stone and blood-washed water. Rook, like his other compatriots, would be caught trying to scramble toward the semblance of hope not dared…scrambling toward the killing field in hopes they had not done the unthinkable. Rook would be halfway down the ledge when he heard or thought he heard Shakira’s howl. It needn’t be questioned, for soon after his court called out. Could Rook hear the desparation in his court’s voice? Had she seen Shakira or the extent of the wounds, or would they each come to her position to see for themselves the cost of their forray into the north?
As the wolves would scramble down the side of the slopes, they would see equal dust and equal clarity from behind them. However, the fae wolf who had attended the three wolves who encroached on the pack’s territory, who saw their end, was attempting to escape the cavern. Unfortunately for her, the wolves at the top of the rubble had a perfect vantage and could see the female wolf dragging something out of the cavern? She was attempting to escape with a token, it seemed. Just before Ophaelos, Rowan, or Rook had made a decision to press on the females movements would catch both their attention and give them enough time to break the distance before the wolf noticed any of them. Would they go?* Ophaelos
* Rowan Her yellow gaze observed the very detail that supplied them evidence, the red stream. She was glad the northern wolves had fallen victim, but the worry was had her mentor fallen victim too? She would let the wolves ahead of her guide her, flanking Ophaelos as her thoughts flew through her mind. She held her breath, her paw pads hitting the ground beneath her. Her ears perked, a howl, familiar to her, rang out. “Shakira!?” She whispered subconsciously, head raising as she also noticed Kova’s vocals.
* Rook Movement beyond the fray would be caught before recognition swiftly came after. Would the others know this fae as he had; an unknown but lowly piece of Olc design, or would any know her more than he? Regardless, the Lore Master had settled into the mindset that he had when leading Ayaka toward the Morrigan’s gambit: Fate had taken its turn with the choices they provided.
* Kova as she was already down the slope and approaching Shakira, she would quickly lick the fae’s ears and crown before looking her over quickly. She would be able to make out a gash of some sort along the fae’s back and down the rib, but it didn’t look to troublesome for the moment, for she couldn’t see with the mud in place. She nosed Shakira again.. “and the rock said unto thee, I cannot crush a WolfSpirit.” she ushered to the fae before sighing quickly. “Let me help you with the mask.”
The wolves would have the advantage on their quarry for the wolf continued to drag something from out of the cavern. The light of amber flickering across the cavern wall was now, no more. The she wolf who would go by no name now, would continue to attend to whatever finally saw her out of the cavern after the call of warning was made. The wolves would get fairly close before she even had a proper chance to react or run.
Pup Naming Ceremony!
The pack welcomes Ceol, Maeve, and Keegan! Fianna and Calders pups!
* Kova as she stood at the edge of the stone, she would make note of each wolf heeding the call. One by one the wolves would gather and there she would slowly seat herself and dip her nose to each who had appeared. “Salutations each and all.” she said in low, but key tones. “Thank you for heeding my call. I know this is of shorter notice than usual, but there’s a lot to discuss and with time being as it is, it will not wait.”
* Panther He had noticed the tense frame Vesper reacted with, but he wouldn’t connect it with Maikoh, instead he’d assume she wasn’t used to eating around a bunch of wolves. Either way, he didn’t comment on it, and instead made his way towards the clearing, and quickly too.
* Amoux~ — looked at SIR and nodded, starting to blink somewhat at the big difficult words. He watched as the brute moved towards the Alpha’s stone and just stood there deciding if he wanted to continue to sleep or not, or maybe to go eat. His stomach grumbled a bit and he shrugged as he was fatty anyway and started to move those limbs towards the gathering group of wolves. Going straight to the back as usual, where no one could watch him….Just incase of falling asleep!
* Vesper – ”Thank you,” Vesper replied quietly, moving to sit beside Saskia, tail waving slightly.
* Maikoh: As the obsidian brute sat in the clearing with the others, he watched as the alphess ascended the stone. He’d listen attentively as the alphess spoke, always eager to hear what the alphess had to say and to hear about what was going on at the moment!
* Sanek The trail he was taking to the Clearing was one he had taken a few times before so he was quite familiar with it, allowing him to travel it faster. Even so, the Lake of Solace and Clearing were pretty far apart from each other, so when the meeting began there was no sign of him. He could already see the hills in which the second Alphas Den was in, though, so it wouldn’t be much longer.
* MysticRain hearing the call she takes a couple of quick laps of the water then quickly trots towards the Rock where the rest of the pack is already waiting and she sits down some place in the rear.
*Kova As the wolves would reach the stone in the time given, she would proceed. “First, I would like to start this meeting by inviting those wolves new and old, to the front and beneath the stone should you have request to join the pack.”
* Rook Well, look at that! Amoux would have sidled up next to him and when Kova asked about joining, Rook would look squarely at Amoux. It was the same look he gave Grim all those weeks ago…the great gray raven would sit upon his perch above the threads of fate and look to see which way the old wolf went…
* Saskia Her gaze found Vesper encouragingly, and it quite so reminded her of Fern. She smiled and looked around for others as well. If Maikoh was about, she’d pause for a glance his way. Did her gaze narrow just a hair in his direction? None would know why except her, and it would likely go unnoticed.
* Vesper stood, trembling a bit as she walked to the foot of the stone, head bowed, tail and ears laid back in submission as she moved to sit before the Alpha’s stone, steadying herself as her hopeful gaze found Kova once more.
* Maikoh: He’d listen to the alpha, and when she said her next message, his heart pounded. He would walk up and sit beneath the alpha’s stone, fixing his posture and giving a polite nod to the alpha above.
*Rowan Her ears perked, her yellow gaze swept over his wounds. He didn’t seem to be paying too much mind to them, they were only a couple days old by the looks of it. “Well, I am glad you both are still of this earth at least. I’m sure it sent you off with quite the bruised ego.” She grinned, teasing the brute. Her tones barely above a whisper. “I’ve seen Shakira a couple days ago, but we’re both quite the elusive wolves. I’m sure she’ll teach me quite a bit when we actually settle down and allow ourselves the time.” She smiled, if anything it was mostly her fault, she kept wandering off. With that, her attention was placed on Kova. An ear swiveled as she listened for others to approach, dipping her head to them if they settled near her and Ophaelos.
* Amoux~ was about to slide his paws away from underneath his chest in order to flop onto his belly and lay down but perked his auds somewhat at the sentences of the fae. He canceled the sliding and slowly moved his butt off the terra instead, starting to move towards the front. That.whole.way.to.the.stone. It was a long walk but could happily flop down his butt against the terra once again reaching the front, looking at all the new woofs and at dem brute who was looking at him just before once again.
* Sanek — sure enough, he was now entering the Clearing from the west. He was about to chuff out of habit but stopped himself since he didn’t want to interrupt the meeting. Instead, he quietly made his way to those who were gathered and once there he sat in an open spot.
* Panther – No doubt, he would settle beside his mate, giving a glance towards Rowan and Ophaelos. He ‘hmmed’ softly at their close proximity to one another, he hadn’t realized the two had met before. Or maybe he had, and it slipped his mind. He smiled lightly as Vesper padded towards the front, along with Maikoh, and who was this? An older wolf for sure, but one he hadn’t seen before. He glanced towards Saskia, had she met him? He glanced back towards Kova, listening and putting all of his attention towards the meeting.
* Saskia Her gaze loosened once the brute made the effort to approach the stone. Nothing more to say there. In her peripherals, she’d likely see the entrance of another chocolate wolf, one of Panther’s Spirit brother. He was back! Saskia waved her tail behind her and nuzzled her mate in a quiet attempt to get him to notice – if he hadn’t already? She politely dipped her head in the Scout’s direction.
* Kova — She would cast her gaze across all the wolves whom where in attendance so far. Vesper, the newest fae to their homeland would slowly begin to make her way forward. There was a knowing, but soft dip of her head given to her before her silvery like hues would fall forward to any others who where to join, and so it would seem Maikoh had also approached and then shortly followed by Amoux. Her tail would wave to the elder wolf with respect and admiration.
She would wait a few more moments and when no others joined, she’d begin.
“Wolves of WolfSpirits, presented are Amoux, Vesper, and Maikoh, those who desire to join our home and pack.” she would turn then to the trio.
“As a Pledge of WolfSpirits, you will continue on your journey to joining us. As a pledge, this is the time for you to explore your heart and ensure that this path is your true path. You will take this time to become more familiar with the territory and the wolves who call it home. I would ask you three now, do you agree to the time of pledge?”
* Fern found a cozy spot beside the group of friends she had arrived to the meeting with, still keeping her frame alert and attentive to not show any disrespect to Kova while she spoke. It had been a minute since the last meeting as well, not to mention she hadn’t exactly been the most social throughout these past weeks, so the amount of wolves that surround her kept her senses heightened.
* Rook Perhaps that gray raven would offer a few wooden sounds to the sight of which thread Amoux picked, but Rook the wolf remained quiet if not internally pleased to see the artifact one step closer to being in the museum, so to speak. At this, he would move from the back and see Sanek make his way into the clearing. So the Olc hadn’t taken him after all? One, especially he, wondered just what took the scout this long to return and what report he’d give that could make or break the last-minute prospects of the venture ahead.
* Vesper’s voice did not waver or shake as she spoke, though she did not shout, for fear of seeming disrespectful of the Alpha. Raising her head, Vesper replied. “Yes, I agree to such a time, and to such a pledge as this.”
* Ophaelos a quiet chuckle would follow her tease, a soft simper offered in her direction as she continued. He’d only hum quietly in response before adding, “Aye—I hope all goes well with your apprenticeship—perhaps something a little less daunting than fighting cougars. I am sure she has plenty of things to teach… here is hoping more time will be shared between you.” With that, he’d quietly reside beside her, looking up at Kova and then at those approaching the stone to pledge. Perhaps a slightly narrowed gaze was upon both Maikoh and the new fae—if only out of caution and scrutiny as his eyes swept their figures, ears perked to listen to their words offered to Kova, and more so sharpened toward the fae, who he now knew as Vesper. Even old Amoux had pledged—an interesting sight to the brute, considering his age. Would he find a rank among the pack, or would he settle into subordinate-ship? Ophaelos was eager to see how the old wolf manages in the upcoming year, if that.
* Maikoh: His heart would stop for a second, he was very excited if he was to pledge! “I will!” He’d speak out, a tone showing that he was excited to pledge. “I am honored to pledge along this pack.”
*Saskia The wolves present would find a smile resting upon her maw though none of them would draw a stamp of her paw, even as happy as she was for the start of their journey. She hummed contently as they pledged, but would remain silent otherwise.
* Amoux~ — listened to the words of the fae as she began, shifting his hues towards her. Yea here we go again. Familiar? He knew every piece of grass and sand already! If his memory didn’t forget that is… His grey colored muzzle in the air somewhat as he looked up at the two while listening, giving a nod at those final words, not speaking much more than a “Yes”, out of the brutes muzzle and a swish of his banner behind him. He wanted to go back already, getting nervous being infront of a bunch of wolves like he always did!
* Sanek It would seem that a few wolves were being Pledged right when he seated himself, all of which he had yet to meet, one which looked like they’d been around since the beginning of time. He could feel all of their excitement, some of which he shared for them. A small smile could be seen on his maw.
* Kova when each wolf would offer their agreeing pledge, she would rise her paw slowly and stomp it to the smooth surface of the stone beneath her paw. “As all hear witness to Amoux, Vesper, and Maikoh’s pledge, then I to will heed and hear it and would have the honor to naming you three Pledges of WolfSpirits. May your journey home be swift and true.” She would dip her head to the three softly, a gentle but knowing expression offered. Perhaps even more so to Amoux. She’s heard many ‘ a story of him and wished to know each of theirs in turn.
* Panther was too focused on spying on Rowan and Ophaelos, and then focused on the meeting. Panther glanced towards his mate, then looked towards Sanek.. wait, Sanek!? His brother! Panther’s tail swayed behind him as he barely contained his joy, it had been a while since the two had seen each other and so he was eager to greet him after the meeting. Panther focused back on the meeting, it appeared both Vesper and Maikoh were ready to pledge. And Kova said the third one was Amoux? He’d commit the name to memory, stomping a paw for the three new pledges.
* KovaHer head would dip, inviting the new pledges to take their place back where they desired to sit, before her hues fell to the rest gathered. As she searched for a particular fae, and found her, she usherd a low chuff in the direction of Rain Catcher. “Rain Catcher, please come forward.”
* Saskia As the newly appointed pledges found their way back to their seats, Saskia would gently nose Vesper on her shoulder. “Congratulations, Vesper.” She whispered, quietly. Her gaze and ears would find the likes of someone crossing the stream to the … West? She narrowed her gaze if only to get better visage and sure enough there was her Spirit mother bringing across what looks to be a rabbit – no.. a pup! She could hardly contain her excitement, but it wasn’t only excitement… she scanned the new and old wolves present, a bit worried for the pups. Was there a reason to be? Not really. She refrained from interrupting anything and turned back towards the meeting just as Rain was called forth.
* Amoux heard the stomping and words as he once again was pledged. A second time. He smiled somewhat remembering the first time slightly and vaguely. He dipped his cranium in respect and smiled towards the two. He then looked at the new woofs he didn’t met yet before raising his butt again, turning around. “Congratulations, younglings.”, he would offer to the two before starting to move towards the back again. Nervous as he was, that was going faster than going up to the front. He would fastly reach the back, dumping his butt down again and hear what more was to offer in the meeting by the fae, or perhaps two. Wait, did he see blurry little woofs in the distance? Oh dear…
* MysticRain head comes up in surprise. huh what? she wonders but she doesn’t dally and quickly rises onto all fours and keeping her head appropriatly lowered with ears angled back she pads up to the Rock and sits down in front of it before raising her head just enough to look up at her alphess.
* Fern would give a congratulating stomp to all the new pledges, happy to see some new faces and learn from them all in time! But sadly, she would likely be too distracted with all the wolves here to spot the pups making their way across the River north.
* Sanek For each new Pledge he would stamp his paw, wondering if any of those here present would later decide to stay here for good. His attention then turned to Rain, one of the only newer wolves he actually had met. If her gaze happened to meet his he would offer a wag of his tail in encouragement.
* Kova When the fae approached, she would dip her nose lightly before ushering a greeting to her, but as well a welcome to the stone. “Rain Catcher, you have been a pledge to the pack for a full moon’s cycle. Your next path is Assessmentshp. As an Assessment you will grow with the pack, learn the pack ways and rules. You will take more dedicated time in understanding our way and history. I would like you to please indicate to the pack that you have found your path true, and your heart truer in that you still wish to join WolfSpirits.”
* Rook
OOC Meeting Announcement I will ensure the website reflects this, but I wanted to post here as well (this isn’t really IC news).The duration is as follows:
Remember, if you need an LOA that’s absolutely fine, but please make sure to post it in loa-notices <3 I do worry when I don’t hear from folks for a long while, and I want to make sure you all are ok.
* Rook
* Saskia Mmm, Good point, Rook. She ponders in thought but her mind can’t help but drift to the laboratory atop the saddled mountain. She wondered if it could have something to aide them into battle? She thought about masks – if the pouch could keep it in, it could keep it out! But then again, the wolves needed their powerful jaws in the long run. Kova was right; they would simply have to trust their luck.
* Rook Time, fleeting as it was, would be offered to them to prepare. “Lugh of the long paw, felled Balor of the Baleful eye with cunning. We, who are kin of the long paw and other such skilled wolves, will fell lesser wolves with equal guile. If you wish to bury them beneath the snows and quench the embers, then we will find a way.” Wishes and butts were akin to “only ifs.” Only if they could have Rune’s skill…but the Yule of this metaphor had come and wishes and butts were never candies and nuts, so they’d just have to make their own merry little christmas…complete with buried snow wolves.He could see his sister and family waiting on the wings, so he allowed this heavy and needed topic to rest.
* Kova There was much to discuss, much to deliberate on, but she would share a meeting with the members in time to go over more intricate the details of her plan and execute it with haste – as well as hear their thoughts. For now, she offered to all gathered the thoughts of where she desired to go and what plan was to unfold in time. To her courts words, she gave a sure and confident nod in agreement. “In a day or so time, I will meet with the members of the pack, and we will discuss who will go and who will stay. There is much to protect here as there is out there. For now, that is what I have to share as I learn more from those who have to share more news. Listen for my call.” her hues fell to her sister with endearment. She wondered on her other sister, Rune, but duty would pull her to the now. It was there she turned to each wolf in kind, when her hues fell to Saskia and then to Ophaelos. Her paws settled beneath her as she remained risen to all fours before she gave a change in pace and tone. “Speaking of call…. Saskia, I would call you and your mentee up to the stone.”
* Saskia A hum of agreement was to be had on the burden of the North, one she intended to be involved with whether it be here or there – wherever she was needed. When her name was called, the Guardian stood and moved to the base of said stone. Her eyes cast along the crowd, searching for the white wolf before they returned to Kova with eager eyes.
* Ophaelos Caution would no doubt be conducted throughout the journey to the North and what lies ahead of the pack when they reach it. Now, Ophaelos was no ranked wolf, so he didn’t expect to join the others up the mountain, but he was content holding down the fort in the meantime, should the pack depart from the land of WolfSpirits to finish what the Northerners started—long before Ophaelos even set paw in this place. A focused ear and trained eyes would pick up both his name and his mentors. Quiet, he’d glance over at his mentor. The tension in his chest was palpable, to say the least, but despite the tension between his ribs, his outward disposition was calm as he met at his mentor’s side before settling in front of the stone with her.
* Kova Her gaze fell to the brute, Ophaelos. “Ophaelos, the journey to join our pack is as long as the heart, paws, and knowledge shared is given and received. I would ask you now, is it still your desire to be part of our pack and our fold?” curiously did her gaze wait and eagerly watch for his response.
* Rook
* Saskia Excitement was to be had, aye. Saskia met his gaze equally so and would return to Kova when she asked her to vouche for the white wolf. She stood to her paws and spoke loud enough for all to hear;
* Ophaelos
* Rook This was not what he had in mind, but he would not question his court’s judgement nor his own in retrospect. Would he fault Ophaelos for others’ absences including his own? No, but he would see just how much the older wolf had learned or could learn given the space to do so. This was like a mirror of sorts…had not Rook learned much outside the pack? Had he not endured to connect his tale to those here?
* Rook When the naming ceremony came to a close, he would offer his sister and Calder a firm round of paw stamps, reserving his voice to the quiet turn of closing conversation with Ophaelos.
* Kova She would smile to her sister and when the pups where being wrangled to head to a place of rest, she would give a warm swing of her tail and a dip of her head as the family moved off to settle. There, she would turn her hues then to Rook and Ophaelos. When he gave a nod of his head, she would give one in kind and turn; understanding. To that note she would look to Ophaelos and usher him forward. “Ophaelos, please come forward.”
* Ophaelos
* Vesper watches as the pups leave, bowing her head respectfully before returning her attention to Kova and Ophaelos’ verdict.
* Fern
* Kova Those who joined in would feel the chours of each tone, each howl, and each song. A song for their newest member. When the howls died, she would lower her muzzle and stomp her paw. “The hour is late, and I thank each and everyone of you for celebrating tonight’s events. Rest well, for tomorrow is a new day, and we are stronger than before.” she would dip her head and conclude the meeting.
* Leora
* Vesper perked up–Saskia’s family? Regardless, the meeting was going on, so she gave the other fae that came to sit by Saskia a polite nod and wag of her tail before returning her attention to the approaching pups and their parents.
* Ophaelos As Fianna took over the meeting, Ophaelos would slip away from the alpha stone. His previous spot beside Rowan would no longer be occupied, and instead, the alabaster male would find a spot near Rook—he was the first wolf he’d need to speak to, after all. All would work out well, considering he was also part of the list Ophaelos was tasked with by his mentor, Saskia. Whether he ranked up tonight or not wouldn’t cause such a task to magically snap out of existence—he was far too responsible to simply dismiss his assignment. For now, his eyes would settle on Fianna and her pups, a softness in his expression as he watches them from his spot near the storyteller.
* Sanek He had zoned out for a moment and had to take a moment to understand the words spoken during his inattention. He didn’t really know much about Ophaelos so the wolves vouching for him helped grow his understanding about who the brute was. Rook did not seem quite ready to vouch for him, though. Although it was odd to him, Sanek had come to know the Lore Master’s judgment as wise, so he trusted that it was made with a good amount of thought. He now turned his attention to the pups. Such small and rambunctious bundles of joy they were!
. The name of the first pup, a male, would be given and shared by her sister and now, named to the world. Her tail would not seize it’s swaying, Oh my oh moyyyyyyyy. “Welcome, Ceol!” she gruuuued to her nephew. Oh, she was gunna be the best aunt.* Fianna would chuckle and nuzzle Ceol one more time, looking to her mate to see the same emotion in his own eyes. Her eyes would drift over her other family one by one, grateful for each of their presence and their soon to be influence in the lives of her pups.
* Rook and the second named was Maeve. Oh, how that name was given power and determination…though he would feign to say it lest one be intoxicated. Several connotations were wrapped within such a name, but a queen was not named such easily. He’d see how this little fae grew into such a name should he be graced with years of life ahead. Rook would visibly frown as much as one wolf could to the next of the answers. It was a tale told within the confines of a Lore Night. The story itself was of little consequence to those outside, but to those who wanted knowledge of corvus, of the observatory, of song-born sickness, of the seeds, and of the song would find a little solace herein. Rook would skip the second half of the set and move to the next after stamping his paw for Maeve.
* Calder he would gently nose Maeve across her crown, his little star added to the fold. When Keegan was the next to be named, he would feel his heart swell and there, a howl escaped once more through parted jowls.
* Rook
* Keegan Just as bath time came around in sets of three, so did he when he was gently nudged forward. Now standing in front of everyone else, his tail whipped back and forth and he took in another deeper breath this time and let out a few yips that turned into a howl as his own voice join in celebration of his name being given, the equivalent of one’s first birthday candle. If Leora got too close, he held back a moment before letting his muzzle extend out towards hers with a but wasn’t further than his wagging tail could hit his mother’s legs to know that he was safe.
Kova When Fianna would announce the final pup, Keegan, she would stomp the earth and offer her own low gruuuuing woooof sounds. The pups now introduced and seemingly eager to see their paws aloft to all the new and amazing smells. She swung her tail and ushered to her sister. “A beautiful family. Congratulations again, Fianna and Calder.” she dipped her nose. “I look forward to seeing them learn, grow, and become one with the pack and in their own time, their own paths.”
* Kova another swift but fond brush of her frame to Rook’s was given before she would press forward and to the Alpha’s stone. She’d observe as well all the wolves now present. A quiet, humble dip of her head was given as she would reach the base, and there rise up to it’s surface and stand at the edge.
Once she was there, she’d lift her muzzle and howl for a gathering. The meeting to be harold and those present, to come forward.
* Salem followed his usual route on his way back to the Clearing picking up that he wasn’t the only one to approach it from this direction. He was nearly there by the time he could pick up on the scents of other wolves that were still lingering. Present even. He would quicken his pace until he could make out the break in the trees where he slowed only to scan who all was there though his nose already gave it away and the job of his eyes were only to confirm it. His tail wagged to see them all though mixed in with the ones he knew, there were also a few he didn’t but the mix of them all wouldn’t be alarming. There were just some wolves he hadn’t met yet but that meant that he had those to meet, and out of one or two of them, he could recall seeing the wolves themselves at a closer distance, the distance he now sought to close with a chuff once he was close enough. It was just after the howl resounded and he noticed Kova on top of the Alpha Rock and diverted his path in that direction but wouldn’t be the first to arrive.
* Sanek was at the Lake of Solace, drinking from a hole he had punctured through the ice. The cold water helped him feel more awake, as he had woken up not too long ago. Having quenched his thirst, he offered a gaze skyward, then turned and started making his way back to the Clearing. Kova’s howl echoed through the forest just as he did so. A meeting? Maybe this time he wouldn’t be late! He started sprinting through the woods, narrowly avoiding trees as he ran.
* Ophaelos .ೃ࿐ “No worries, I am just glad to see you both in good health,” Ophaelos simpers. At Fern’s response, he’d hum, his smile loosening perhaps with sympathy. “You will find comfort in the fact that Shakira said that a hunt will be soon, however, that was days ago, so I am unsure just how close the hunt may be,” he tells her. “If I knew you were going to be nosing around yesterday, I would have saved my energy and taken you on my hunt with me yesterday. I managed to hunt a pheasant, and before that, I was able to secure an otter too. The latter, however, was a lot more challenging,” he admits, a rare image of sheepishness present in his eyes if only for a split second. As Grimolf approaches, he would glance toward Fern momentarily to gauge her reaction, but would otherwise sit firmly beside her. Luckily, for her sake, it would seem that Ophaelos’ body was between her and the brute, so he’d hoped that would bring her some sort of comfort. Regardless, a welcoming simper would come across Ophaelos’ face, though his tone was solemn as usual. “Good evening, Grimolf. How have you been? Have you been eating well?” Ophaelos questions, his eyes briefly swaying across the brute’s chest to see if he had filled it out. Considering his lack of rank, he hadn’t been invited on any hunts with the pack but hoped he had been finding some sustenance in the meantime. As Kova calls for a meeting, his gaze would sway among the three wolves. As he gets to his paws, his eyes would land on Grimolf once more. “A meeting is afoot. You are welcomed to sit with us to attend, Grimolf,” he says, his tail swaying momentarily as he looks across the land to the stone. “Are you considering pledging tonight?” *ೃ༄
* Leora her tail swung happily behind her as she would pace herself quickly to greet Lou with a fond nuzzle. “Hi, Lou!” she said before she made note of the others who started to appear, but then a howl drew her attention entirely. Kova was at the stone, and called a gathering. “Oh!” she’d scamper to nose Lou again before seating herself.
*CwnAnnwn Silver male noted the small groups of wolves that gathered together near the alpha rock. As he neared the small groups, he noted the arrival of Kova and Rook and watched as the alpha fae climbed the alpha rock and issued her call for a gathering. With the call made, he would find a spot to settle upon his haunches close to the others, leaving space for his mate should she make a late appearance. He watched how the others reacted with on another as he awaited the meeting to begin.
Maikoh — He opened his eyes slowly, feeling the softness of the patch of grass beneath his shaggy body. He inhaled deeply and smelt the rich aroma of meat from the hare he killed the other day. He licked his chops and grinned, remembering how he chased and caught the prey with his sharp claws and teeth. He heard a loud howl from the direction of the clearing. He recognized it as Kova, calling for something. He wondered what was going on. Was there a new threat? A big hunt? A special celebration? He got up and shook off the snow and leaves from his pelt, then trotted towards the clearing with excitement. It would not be long before he entered the clearing and sat his haunches down just close enough to the stone to hear what the alphess was saying.
* Rook 📖 would accompany Kova as far as the stone before he nosed at her and moved to take his place alongside CwnAnnwn. If one such side was obviously favored for the Lorekeeper of herbs, then he’d be keen to chose that which wasn’t. He’d note the others within the clearing and near the stone, Grim especially. A quiet and respectful dip of his nose would be given to Cwn before he too put his attention to the meeting.
* Fern would look the pitch black brute up and down for a moment while Ophaelos spoke to him, but she did notice he seemed to be trying his hardest to seem friendly, so she would over a quick sway of her tail to that. Though, there was not too much time to chit-chat it seemed as the strong call of a meeting rang in her ears. Quickly picking herself up from her sat position, she would rub her golden frame against Ophaelos’s once more for comfort as she began making her way closer to the Alpha Stone’s foot which they were not quite at as of yet.
* Saskia nodded in regards to Fern’s statement about Rook’s father. Her gaze turned towards the others entering the clearing and she would offer each one a smile. A deeper smile would be given to Loumacy, however. She turned back towards Ophaelos as he greeted Grimolf, and she was quite proud to watch him invite the scarred brute to their side’s during the gathering, which had just been called by Kova. Saskia would waste no time, and would stand to approach the stone in the center of the clearing. She’d seat herself slowly near it’s flare and glance to her left and right, her gaze settled on Cwn. She didn’t see Rune attached to his side, and would frown. Where was the caretaker? With that thought in mind, she looked around for the black brute she knew as her heart. He was also missing in attendance. She hadn’t seen him in some time and was beginning to worry about his well-being. Not being able to jump from one appearance of wolf to another, Saskia would hold a disciplined gaze upon Kova as she ascended the stone. She would be seated near Ophaelos and Fern, but also keep her ear swiveled for Lou should she decide to join them. The clearing was teeming with life and activity!
*Kova As the other wolves began to gather after the call for the meeting to take place, she would have shifted her paws beneath her and seated upon the Alpha’s stone. Luckily the day was a little warmer, so was the stone beneath her pads – a quiet relief to her wandering paws as of late. She would offer a bow of her head and a swing of her tail as she began. “Thank you to all who have heeded the call for tonight’s meeting.” she took in the scents therein, and made note of who was present before she’d continue. “I would like to begin with a few points in which to discuss as a whole.” she turned to those present. “Each wolf’s journey to our land is as unique in their own path, as it is to the one joining our fold.” she’d cast her eyes upon each wolf present, but mostly the members. “Ensure that you connect with your mentoree’s, and to share in that journey as well wisdom. Should you need guidance know I am here as well to help offer a page or two.” she gave a smile. “Questions can be asked, always.” she’d add now gazing to any of the Assessments present before looking back to the gathered. Waiting should there be any questions or tones to be offered.
<Sanek> sped into the Clearing and slowed only when he was halfway to the Alpha Rock so as to not distract those gathered in case the meeting had already started. He wagged his tail and sat a bit closer to the Rock than usual so that he could see what was happening better. He was panting hard from the quick run.
*Leora she would go big eyed to at all the wolves coming in! So many, she thought just as Saskia had. She saw Sanek emerge into the clearing from the woods and her eyes would light a little brighter. Her tail waved swiftly behind her as she dared to leap in his direction but decorum. She would hear Kova begin to speak and now, she’d listen.
* Loumacy settled near Saskia but not next to, rather her body gave space for Salem to join her if he so desired. Though she did dip her nose in greet at Ophaelos and Fern before turning her attention to Great Alpha Kova. Thunk thunk thunk went her tail against the earth. Not meaning to make noise, just happy go lucky as she listened to what had to be said. Granted she hadn’t seen her mentor in a while, not sense that incident with Calder, come to think of it where was the brute. Her amber hues began to scan the shadows, wearily. There was worry in her brow.
* Grimolf’s expression harden at the sight of Ophaelos shielding Fern away from him, it deeply upset him that she’d held such a distrust for the brute despite his best efforts at trying to redeem himself. Lucky for him, Ophaelos replied with his own greeting and some questions ? ‘ Evening . ‘ The brute’s attention shifted onto him . ‘ Just enough to get myself here and there. ‘ That last question regarding food ; Grimolf expected knowing that he had been living off the small game in the territory for some time now . Both of his ears perked up at Kova’s howl turning his head towards the Rock . ‘ Perhaps . . ‘ he muttered softly falling suit with the rest of the group, as they made their way over to the meeting, leaving the group to find his own spot at their arrival .
* Calder nestled just within the northern tree line , very close to the ancient forest, the shadowy figure of Calder would be just there. He had heard the call, risen himself and moved as close as his nerves would allow. Perhaps one ear constantly turned to the forest, while another forward to hear the words of what unfolded with the meeting.
*Cwn He perked as Rook moved to his right side and settled, he gave a respectful bow of his head to the Master of Lore before turning his attention the Kova as she spoke. He had noted that his mentoree was still missing and he found himself wondering if for the second time the wolf he was to mentor had a change of heart and found another path. He glanced to the others as Kova offered an opportunity for questions.
* Salem looked up as Kova spoke and to the mentorees he could make a note that among them he could pick out his and gave a short nod if only to himself but could also be taken as a nod of acknowledgement to who it was. Seeing an almost row of wolves in front of the rock, Salem found a spot on the other side of Loumacy and gave her a silent nudge in greeting and a short nod to Coneward as well. His attention then would turn to Kova as she directed the rest of the meeting.
* Loumacy’s gaze halted on the strange wolf that eyed Fern. Her ears perked forward back, laid down and stood up, and soon she followed suite decided to slip away from the stranger and seek comfort from others, but who and where? Just then Calder stepped out out of the forest and Loumacy gave forth a whine, but lucky Salem was there to nudge her in greet and soon she settled back down with her head between her paws looking up to the rock, trying to make herself small…or bush like. The later was more manageable.
* Kova as all had fallen silent for a moment more, she’d continue. “Our next item to discuss is the north.” her hues momentarily broke to cast her gaze behind her, to the Rogha’s, before looking back to the gathered. Her body language and vocalization would indicate well her intent and fire. “I’ve begun to conjure a plan. We wait no longer for the shadows to collect, gather, and plot. We wait no more for them to harled whatever ill will they wish to seek out to it’s fullest. We wait no more… but we must be careful. Thoughtful.” she’d exude confidence and strength in hopes to lend it to those who where unsure. “Winters grip will soon be released and the rivers and creeks swollen. Without the snows in the valley below, it’ll be easier for us to traverse, but the snow will no doubt still be clinging to the Rogha’s and beyond. I will send out a wolf to scout ahead, beyond our usual territory, to report back on what they find.” she’d cast her eyes once more to the gathered before shifting her weight. If she saw Sanek among the crowd, she’d give him a knowing nod. She’d much to discuss but would have to wait until afterward. “Once we know their position, if it’s given, then we will move to follow. However… ” her tones drifted carefully. “Timing will need to be carefully constructed. Our Lead Guardian will be tending to her new family soon, and she will not be alone.”
Ophaelos .ೃ࿠“I shall hope you do,” Ophaelos tells him, his voice quieting slightly as the meeting begins to commence. He’d give him a final lasting look, solemn and perceptive, before he says, “You have grown resilient skin. I am eager to watch it soften the more you grow here, as many of us have.” An earnest dip of his head would be given to the brute before Ophaelos takes a seat at the rock, comfortable among his friends, the pack, and the strange faces that may gather, too. As he listens to Kova speak and offer her tongue, Ophaelos would think for a moment, quiet for the time being. He had some questions, but a glance toward Saskia would be thrown gently, if not unnoticeably, her way. All seemed silent for now as Ophaelos listened closely to Kova’s wisdom, and the plans to come. At the mention of a single wolf sent to scout, a pricking sensation on the back of his nape would ensue, in hopes things go smoothly for whoever is picked for such a task. A part of him was envious, however, that they’d be able to travel so far… returning, of course, but to travel… it was one of few things Ophaelos was ever happy and content doing. *ೃ༄
* Maikoh: He felt a surge of adrenaline and curiosity as the alphess spoke, never hearing the word “Rogha’s”. He tilted his head slightly, but he kept quiet and remained as polite as he could. He would like to see the land and what would lie beyond it, as he loved adventures. But he wasnt sure, as he was just a Newcomer to the pack.
* Leora she’d dance her gaze from a few wolves back to Kova, listening. When the next item was discussed she’d feel a hard pit in her stomach. Her paws would pull further into the snows as she wrapped her tail around her slowly. A low breath escaped her, not a whine, but a concerned vocalization. A fear… ? Then her mind fell to her sister and what was to come. Soon, maybe? She did look rather round but she knew nothing of such things, or the time of it all.
* Sanek he offered a glance to Leora and dipped his head to her with a smile. His heart had stopped pounding as hard by now and he could fully focus on what Kova was saying. She gave him a nod and he ran back her last few sentences in his head, intrigued. He had thought much about the enemy yesterday and was glad that Kova was taking a more active approach in stopping them.
* Grimolf stood in front of the Alpha’s stone, he spoke firm pledging his true allegiance to the Wolf Spirit’s pack remaining bowed in front of the stone, it was a crude display from where she stood, but still warranted respect for the Alphaess . Grimolf felt his gaze soften hearing her words and the way of the creed . He dared not speak until she finished speaking . ‘ You honour me . ‘ For the first time in a long time, Grimolf’s voice sounded — sincere ? It had finally paid off even with the heart-ships. Although, he couldn’t hear Saskia form where he stood Grimolf noticed that same expression from the last meeting, she was definitely proud of him . The newly pledged Grimolf would step away from the stone returning into the crowd of wolves .
<Kova> Her path would take her in the direction of the Alpha’s stone with a swiftness that carried her for now was the time for their calling. Her paws lithe, ears forward and eyes observant to who was around and make a mental note of each.
As she reached the stone she’d gently leap to it’s surface and head to its end where her paws would reach the rocks edge. There, she would rise her head up and let loose a low howl. A calling for a gathering.
Awwwwwoooooooooo**ooooooooo!
<Rune>For a moment, Rune was surprised, not expecting to be called forward. However, it was just for a moment, as her memory wound its way backwards to a moment shared between herself and Kova some months ago. Her tail wags lightly as she rises to her paws, approaching the large stone at the center of the gathered wolves. The Caretaker pauses before the rock, remaining on her paws and looking up towards her Alpha with a soft expression.
<Kova> a lightness and knowing would befall her expression when she approached. She’d clear her throat enough to project it to the others now present.
“Fianna, you have been Guardian of WolfSpirits for many moons now. Your prowess, guard, and strength knows no bounds and the desire and will to see our home safe and secure is ever present within you. Burning and pure. You have mentored and continue to do so to each wolf you meet, and have mentored another in the way of guardianship.” she’d pause for only a moment before she’d continue.
“I would like to ask you now, if you would accept and honor me and WolfSpirits, as taking the role as Lead Guardian to WolfSpirits? To continue to foster, care, and protect our home but as well lead and guide those under you?”
<CwnAnnwn> He watched as Fianna approached the alpha rock before turning to his mate as she settled beside him. He tenderly ran his muzzle along hers and into her scruff and spoke just loud enough for her to hear. “Congrats my Heart, your advancement to Lead Caretaker was well deserved and I am happy to see you and Kova named spirit sisters.” He perked to the alpha fae and Fianna as Kova spoke of the role of Lead Guardian.
<Saskia> Saskia let in an inward gasp. Lead Guardian! Saskia’s tassel thumped gently behind her as Kova asked the betrothal of such rank. It was fitting for Fianna, whom had given so much to guard their home. She had the same mindset as Panther, the meeting of the newcomer would come after the meeting, but her guard would be up and her peripheral set on the male. In her mind, the newcomer would be seen as a distraction from all those who found the spotlight of the evening. She would try to look past it, but sent Ophaelos a questioning look. Who is this..? not waiting for an answer, she’d return her attention to the Guardian at hand.
<Fianna>
<Ophaelos>
<Kova> to her sisters heartfelt words, she would dip her head and bow it with an admiration for her. She would then address the rest of the pack and smile.
“As all have heard witness to Fianna’s pledge to the pack as Guardian, I am honored to name you Lead Guardian of WolfSpirits, Fianna.”
When she was named, she would lift her muzzle and allow her soft , sweet harmonic tone to reach the skies above in a howl for Fianna and her Lead role!
<Saskia> Saskia shrugged at Ophaelos’s look and would return to Fianna’s words. They were true if anything was. She’d stamp her paw and lift her muzzle into the sky for her mentor, dear friend, and much more, releasing a soft, low-toned song into the sky for her. awoooooo…
<Ragaire> ✩☾ She had stamped and howled for the tree-wolf, it was only polite to do so. When her momma got called up however, Ragaire’s attention would be piqued. Hmm, what was her momma doing up there? Lead Guardian? What was that? She didn’t know her momma had such a fancy title. Ragaire was picturing it now, ‘Ragaire, of Starfall and Earth, Lead Guardian to the WolfSpirits Pack.’ Mmmm, yes… the yearling quite liked the sound of that… She was now determined to get as many words after her name as possible. The ebony fae lifts her voice to howl with the pack, congratulating Fianna, even if Ragaire didn’t particularly like her right now. ☽✩
<Rune> Rune had become Spirit siblings with Kova? What did that mean? She wondered. A subtle smile appeared on her maw, she dipped her head to Sanek, to. Though, her gaze snapped back to Kova as she announced Fianna was to be Lead Guardian. Guardian.. that was a valuable rank within a pack. She would have to seek her mentor and gain more information about WolfSpirits, and their ranks – though, she guessed most were self explainitory. She’d offer her own howl, allowing her voice to be heard alongside the pack.
<Rikiwulf> Rikki would let out a small howl of her own in congratulations, tail swaying happily behind her. She was happy for Fianna, such a wonderful rank indeed. She had authoritar now. Yes, how great that was, she was hoping she would see Fianna fighting some coyotes at some point.
<Rook> Rook, harbinger of old, bringer of fate, and stealer of joy…the great gray raven pecking on carcasses long devoid of meat had perched himself near grumpy Grim like a horrid creature that stood watch above the threads Grim walked upon. Rook would not break that old façade of his, turning his gaze just enough to speak quietly (not softly) to Grim in tones of distilled truth like an omen come from the hells that spawned him. “A moment, fast approaching, will be given you to make a choice. You’ll either take the path granted you be speaking up and putting yourself forward, or you will not. I’m not here to encourage you; I’m here to see what I shall tell when I tell the tale of Grimolf.”
<Fianna> would not wish to derail the meeting, but perhaps it was in keeping with proceedings and she would turn to face the group, her chest swelling in tightness and joy at her news to share, and she would first find Calder with her eyes and rest them upon him as she spoke. “It is my great and humble pleasure to first share with you all, that Calder and I will be expecting pups soon.. when spring blooms, hopefully there will be the yip and call of pups to greet it.” Her heart swelled and she would look to Ragaire then, her eyes hoping the fae would greet the news as she intended, with anticipation and joy to new siblings, not to replace the old, but fill hearts ever more.
<Calder>he would offer a low but gentle murmur from his tones and a sway of his tail to Fianna’s advancement and to her announcement. He would continue to look to her with confidence and to share such. He bowed his head warmly and smiled. He would then turn to Saskia and Fianna. Curious and intent eyes following. Perhaps he could feel the prickly tension of even a look given to GrimWolf and Rook nearby, but he remained focused now on the pair.
<Rook>
<Saskia>if she could’ve blushed, she would have. Fianna had also found a special place in her heart and filled it with guidance, trust, and courage. “I have been traveled great lengths alongside you, Fianna. Each and every paw step forward, you have guided me and instilled a much needed strength within. You have reminded me of my own mother at times, and that has stuck with me for many moons. I will gladly take the honor of sealing our bond with my word, and with that I would be truly grateful to become your spirit daughter.”
<Fianna> First, she had spoken to Saskia as a mother, as a friend full of heart. Now, her demeanor would shift and grow more serious in nature, to Kova’s words she would draw herself up, now in the role of Lead Guardian to speak.
<Rook> The whole world was a field of small fiddles played by a thousand littler Nero’s while a million Rome’s burned. His own little fiddle was sitting there with worn strings and one too many nicks on the wood to be of any use now…What Rook had lived and would likely understand was a matter of knowledge gained by those who had lived alongside him; he didn’t need to wax on any further.
<Saskia> would forever be humble to such words, but in her heart she knew them to be true. The last year had challenged her, more specifically the last few moons. She’d given her heart, strength, and physical being to her family. She knew in her heart that she was ready to become a protector to their home.
<Fianna>Her heart would listen to Saskia’s words, as much as her ears had for they were steady and true. With a fervor in her voice, she would lift herself at Kova’s permission to proceed and she would let her voice take on a cadence of something almost akin to song, a rythm she felt in her own heart and would now put voice to for Saskia to hold to as well.
<Leora>
<Rook>
<Ophaelos>
<Rook>
Happy 22nd year Anniversary WolfSpirits!
<Kova> once she reached the clearing, she would look around for those she could see. She would make note of Saskia in the distance, and offer to her a warm chuff in greeting. A swift wave of her tail was given before she would stride up towards the direction of the Alpha’s stone. Reaching the base, she would ascend it before lifting her muzzle and letting loose a low, soft howl for a gathering.
Rook 📖 A few long days had seen him watch over an uneventful eastlands– he had not seen the “aurora” that Grim had seen a few nights prior. Today had found him making his way back from the western Hollow’s Wood, a likely spot to hear, in the silence of such a place, the howl given by Kova. He had hoped to accompany Grim back, but so be it…Rook would tarry no longer and make haste along a worn westward trail alongside the slowly swelling river.
CwnAnnwn Silver male was still near the Caretaker’s cache when the sound of the alpha fae’s howl reached him. Turning his frame to the northwest, he would begin to lope towards the clearing, weaving between the trees, tail held out behind him like a banner as he moved onwards.
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<Calder> He had been making his way into the clearing already and by the time a howl would reach his ears he would perk them and begin to stride forward with a swift wave of his tail. He would proceed along the trees and perhaps just missed Daithi’s scent? Or maybe he wasn’t on the right track just yet. All the same, he proceeded with eager paws until he broke into the clearing and listened to the wind welcome him with many scents and sounds.
Ophaelos .ೃ࿐ The scent of the clearing was within reach now. It was faint—few wolves seemed to linger. He was still within the thick of the forest, however, and would eventually veer off of the edge of the river and trot directly South. If he were to continue going down this path, he’d likely get put out at the most-Western corner of the clearing, but he was still a good distance away. At the sound of a howl he recognized only as Kova’s, his legs would shift him from a trot to a lope. Typically, a howl from her means a meeting, from the few times he’s heard her call. This time, however, he was the farthest he’s been from the clearing when a time like this arises. He didn’t expect another meeting to happen so close to the previous… what could this be about? *ೃ༄
Fern -ˋˏ ༻❁ Fern would be in and out of the Southern treeline of the clearing as of late, but not far enough to be unable to catch the whisper of a calling howl from the midst of the clearing. It seems a meeting was due? Of course she would first cautiously look out upon the lands, watching for anything she did not expect, like newcomers, before timidly padding her way up to the Alpha Stone with a soft chuff announcing her arrival. Who was there at the moment? ❁༺ˎˊ-
* Kova eventually the wind would be welcoming many more scents to the clearing. She swung her tail slowly and happily, as she would pick out each intricate scent. She would notice Calder, then Saskia again, Ophaelos then Fern who also appeared. She would sway her tail, chuffing to her in kind in a greeting. When the others settled into their spots, she would smile and dip her head. “Thank you to those who have heeded this afternoon’s call!” she’d begin first, allowing others to break the distance.
<Calder> When the others began to gather, he would give a polite and friendly nod to each and everyone he was able to see. He saw Fern among the gathered and gave a chuff back to her in response to her own before turning an ear and his expression to Kova. He looked around another moment, just to see if his mate was near or Ragaire but saw neither so he kept a closer distance to the others to listen.
<Shakira> still near the carcass that had been felled conveniently near the stream that bordered the wooded strip that divided the Hunting Grounds from the Clearing, would perk her ears to the echoing ringing of a howl, and a most important one indeed; that of the Alpha. Turning back to the carcass briefly to tear off a sizeable chunk to bring as an offering to any who may be hungry, she would set off at a brisk pace towards the Clearing.
Ophaelos — .ೃ࿐ It is times like this when long legs become the handiest. He’d be able to clear the final mile between him and the tree line of the clearing within several minutes. He’d pause as his eyes adjust to the clearing and sure enough, he’d see the gathering wolves near the Alpha stone. He trots forward, his maw open slightly as he pants. The water from the creek splashes his legs when he moves forward. Would he see Saskia? Surely so. Remembering their promise, he’d sidle up to her, leaving a comfortable distance given the season. Before sitting down beside the fae, he’d nose her shoulder silently, giving her a careful glance. Perhaps that one communicated… ‘See me afterward.’ Now was not the time nor the place to discuss their theories, so instead, he’d look up at Kova with a watchful and curious gaze, remaining quiet for now. *ೃ༄
* Leora the yearling would have taken her leave sometime in the evening from the clearing to go find her own lil cozy spot to rest. Rest she did! By the morning now, she would be making her way towards the direction of the clearing when a howl reached her! Ohhh! She could sense a great deal of wolves, and so she would swiftly move along the eastern edge, cutting into the ancient forest first to hopefully make the distance shorter. She was on her way!
<CwnAnnwn> It would not take long for the male to find himself slipping between the trees and into the clearing. He would not slow his pace once the rock came into view, his pace remained steady as he closed the distance to those whom had all ready gathered.
⚜Saskia⚜ — Saskia would dip her head to Kova as she ascended the rock, turning her head to see a couple who arrived in the clearing. She’d see Fern first, and would chuff softly, offering a spot beside her for the familiar fae. She then saw Calder, dipping her head to the darker male. She’d not offer him a spot beside her like she did for Fern, mostly because she knew he’d wish to seek a spot nearest his kin. At last, she’d find her gaze lingering upon the white brute. It was Ophaelos. A tension washed over her frame before she shook it off, chuffing in his direction and also offering him a spot.
Rook 📖 Both pace and proximity would likely see him observing Shakira’s path toward the clearing. He’d offer a chuff in hopes of closing the distance to the clearing together. A friendly dip of his nose would be all he gave to the Lead Huntress, however; lots on the mind of the Lore Master today as with any day. Grace given them both, either together or separately (dealer’s choice), they’d get to the clearing together or shortly after one another. He would first look for his sisters or kin before taking a place alongside them (if present), or claiming a spot near the eastern middle part of the gathered to save said goobers a spot.
Code — Code would have heard the howl and awoken sleepily shortly after Saskia had left. She stood up and shook off the gathered snow on her pelt with a yawn. She quickly headed to the clearing, not wanting to miss this meeting, and entered through the northern treeline . A prickle of anxiety sparked as she saw the sheer number of wolves gathered so she’d find Saskia in the crowd and stand close to the fae, her ears slightly pinned.
Fern — -ˋˏ ༻❁ Oh, there she was! Saskia perfect, at least Fern didn’t have to sit next to anyone unfamiliar, though to be quite honest it would do her some good to step out of her comfort zone a bit. “Saskia, hello!” Her golden snout would softly offer a nuzzle and a few licks before looking back up to Kova while waiting for everyone else to arrive. For sure she would notice Calder as well. Gosh, she really needed to get on top of her tasks, patrolling and talking with Rune wise, if she ever wanted a chance to become a fully fledged member. Her gaze would not yet find Code as she was too busy keeping an eye out on the group in front. ❁༺ˎˊ-
* Kova as each wolf would continue to gather closer she would swing her tail happily behind her. She saw Shakira among them and would be followed by Rook. She would linger upon him a little longer than others perhaps, before she would address all the others with a grin, now starting. “Today marks the 22nd year anniversary of WolfSpirits, and every year I always reflect on those who’ve made this place as wonderful as it has been over the many years we’ve been around. Truly we wouldn’t be here without the dedication, spirit, and amazing wolves who make this place us. I never imagined that I’d be sitting here today, 22 years in, and being surrounded by such amazing wolves (and people!). From the bottom of my heart, I’m so grateful for each of you, and for your talent, heart, and dedication to this pack to see it thrive for as long as it has, and will continue to do.”
Panther – Would he have heard the howl from the carcass? If so, he would be up on his paws in no time. Instead of trotting, the male would likely be sprinting, he ain’t missing everything this meeting has to offer! Though, it would take him a while to get there.
⚜Saskia⚜ – Saskia would smile to Ophaelos, and offer Code a nudge of encouragement before she stood to ascend.
Grimolf – Starting the day off with a reluctant grunt ; Grimolf dragged himself out of his temporary den looking outward towards the Eastern Border where the Storyteller pack lay. It was way too early ( for him ) to go out there. Perhaps, he would spent another hour or so with me, myself, and I. Luckily for the stubborn ol’ brute, he’d be blissfully unaware of the massive gathering of the 22nd anniversary. Crowds and Grimolf were still a / huge / work in progress especially when certain pups challenged him to an stare off.
<Kova> her eyes would be light upon the pair as she would dip her head to both of them. When they approached and stood beneath the stone she would offer in kind, light words. “Code and Ophaelos, your journey with us started sometime ago, and recently you’d pledged with us. Several moons have passed, and your journey has been swift but true. I would like to ask the both of you now, do you still desire to call WolfSpirits your home?”
Panther – Careful not to trip, he’d still be sprinting towards the clearing. Eventually, he’d enter into the treeline, he’d wind around this tree and that. Leap over this log, and run around that rock. Soon, he would enter into the clearing, halting at the treeline. A meeting was in tow, how much had he missed, he wondered. His gaze found Saskia and he would quickly slip in to sit beside her, dipping his head to everyone gathered.
Rook 📖 Rook would hmmm lightly to Ophaelos’ scent being present in the tale but left it at that for the moment. It seemed as though she was making good progress in growing further into her roles within the pack. Speaking of which, he turned attention toward Ophaelos and Code, and he would listen both to the question asked of them and to the answers they gave in turn.
Ophaelos — .ೃ࿐ At Kova’s words, he would bow his head deeply, presenting her with a watchful and genuine gaze once his cranium was raised. “WolfSpirits has been nothing but kind and welcoming to me. Everyone here has been endearing, and trustworthy… I honor your traditions and have begun to hope to learn more of your ways, and the lay of the land. I could think of no better place to call home, my Alphess.” There was, indeed, no truer way to put his words. This would be his second attempt at placing down his roots. Ophaelos was getting old—he is to turn six in the next few months; he isn’t an old man by any means and was instead, well seasoned. But time flies quickly—his call upon the stone would be proof of this. He is far too old to be a wanderer for much longer, at least to the extent his younger-self was. It was time for a home—a permanent home. The honor of WolfSpirits extending that gratitude toward him would cause a certain warmness to rise to his face. *ೃ༄
* Althea stretched, muscles aching as she poked her nose out of the small den that her and Elvira had been sleeping in. ”Whew, we really did sleep in..” Althea nudged Elvira with her muzzle. The two wolves had been minding their business since the pack meeting they attended. Everything was so much to take in, why did they feel so safe in this new found territory? They had been avoiding the other wolves, just sticking together which was making their bond grow stronger. The two wolves had heard whispers about a special meeting, yet were too shy to attend.
Code — offered a nod to Kova’s words and let Ophaleos speak first. When he finished, she would speak briefly. “My paws have taken me many places, but they always found their way back here. Wolf Spirits is where I feel I belong, and I wish to call it my home in time,” she said, keeping her voice steady and choosing her words carefully.
* Kova she would look between the pair and still offered a light, but thoughtful expression to them. To their words, she felt true and heard. She’d turn then towards the gathered wolves and those of the pack. She first looked to Saskia, chuffing for her to come forward, then to Rook, to whom she chuffed to come forward as well. “As an assessment of WolfSpirits, you will understand our ways more deeply. You will know the roots of the pack, and the roots of your own heart. You will become more intricately woven into our fold and you will spend the time getting to know the wolves you wish to call family. In your agreement to stepping forward, I would like to name you your mentors. Ophaelos, Saskia will be your mentor through your journey. Code, Rook will be your mentor through your journey. They will help guide you, and show you the ways of the pack as each have experienced and can share.” her tail would swing then fell to her haunches as she’d nod to both the pair once they reached the stone. She’d wait for them to approach before she’d continue.
Elvira — Elvira awoke to Althea nudging her awake. “Althea… leave me alone…” she said in a sleepful haze. “Let me go back to sleep…” She rolled over to avoid the light hitting her eyes. As much as she wanted to get up and do something productive, sleep was just as important. Knowing Althea would drag her out of her sleep anyway, she managed to stumble onto her feet and meet Althea at the entrance to the den. “Now what? Should we go adventure?”
Rook 📖 A moment or perhaps two would transpire before he realized he had been assigned Code as a pupil of sorts. He would look to the fae a moment, recalling their limited exchanges, and shift his gaze back to Kova. A gentle dip of his nose would offer his own acceptance to the task given him. He had just the curriculum to provide Code with a well-rounded assessment period.
⚜Saskia⚜ — would gently nose Panther’s chin as he took a seat beside her, almost startling her in the process. When Kova called her name forward, she would sway her tail and quietly approach the rock. She made her way to the top, and looked between Ophaelos and Kova with a light expression. Ophaelos had gotten his wish, unbeknownst of her. Code had gotten a special mentor.. and she would be proud of her dear friend. Saskia would touch her nose to the top of Ophaelos’s head. “I will give you my knowledge and guidance as best I can, Ophaelos, Assessment of WolfSpirits.” She’d move back and give Kova a smile and a dip of her head before moving back off the stone after Rook’s choice of actions.
Rowan – She would watch as Panther entered the clearing, settling beside Saskia after Ophaelos and Code were called forth. She’d watch with a curious gaze, was Ophaelos being promoted? Perhaps Code too. Then Saskia and Rook were called forth, she tilted her head. She smiled softly as she watched Saskia became Ophaelos’ mentor, and Rook Code’s mentor.
* Kova when Rook and Saskia offered their acceptance of their new mentee’s she would give a smile and a dip of her head to the four of them. Her paw would rise and stomp lightly upon the earth. “Then, I would like to have the honor of naming you Code and Ophaelos, Assessments to WolfSpirits. May your journey be true, your heart strong, and your spirit willing as you proceed on your journey to calling home.” she would stomp her paw on the stone swiftly to the pair. She was truly happy for the both of them for they’d grown stronger throughout their time here and looked forward to their progression.
<Althea> Nodding her head enthusiastically Althea bounded on top of Elvira. ”Yes! Yes! Yes!” The cold air nipped at her nose as she pounced off of Elvira, cleaning her fur from dust and dirt so she looked presentable to the other wolves in the territory. ”I wonder who we will run into today, there are so many faes left to meet ”
<Calder> At the naming of the pair to assesments, he would offer a stomp of his in turn. He was just getting to know each wolf and would be excited to know them more deeply as time would go on. He was excited to see their continued journey.
CwnAnnwn – He would listen first to Kiva as she called up the pair and posed the question of whether they wished ti continue their path to becoming members of the pack. He listened to their words and when Kova named them to assessment, he would stamp his paw for them.
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Code – stayed silent as Kova named her and Ophaleos assessments, a feeling of pride rushing through her. Finally, after… a year? She would be an assessment! As Rook was named her mentor, she gave a confused expression which was quickly schooled and replaced by a smile. Rook, the Wolf Who Thought Himself A River! She would have to learn to decipher his strange words if he was to teach her the pack’s ways, but she figured she would manage. She nodded to him and then to Kova. “Thank you,” she said. “I will do my best to learn all I can.” She would then return to her original spot near Saskia and their group of friends with a beaming smile, nosing her best friend and dipping her head to everyone else in thanks.
Panther – Both Ophaelos and Code were called forth, it would seem as though they were being promoted. He hummed softly, nosing Saskia’s cheek, a smile on his maw. Then, she and Rook were called forth. His ears perked and he looked forward as Saskia padded forth. His tail swayed behind him as Saskia and Rook were given apprentices. His paw stamped the ground, and once Saskia returned to his side, he’d nuzzle into her fur as congratulations.
Ophaelos – .ೃ࿐ At her nose touching his forehead, he would close his eyes, re-opening them with a smile after she speaks, dipping his head to her. “I have no doubt you will make a fine mentor for me, Saskia, future Guardian of WolfSpirits.” A large part of him was satisfied with Kova’s choice as his mentor. He would wonder if she knew of their friendlier bond, or if it was just a random chance that she was picked. Regardless, he was happy—it would have been difficult to be assigned to someone else he didn’t know well. Perhaps not difficult in action, but the road to forming a comfortable bond as the one he shares with Saskia would have been a sizeable obstacle indeed, had it been someone else. He’d be fond of Code’s choice of mentor—part of him was even a little jealous, given how knowledgeable Rook was. Nonetheless, today was a happy day, and the brute was more than satisfied.
Ophaelos would bow his head at Kova, giving a stamp of his paw alongside everyone. “Thank you, Alphess. I look forward to growing with the pack, especially those close to me,” the male says, glancing at Fern and Code especially—all three of them were assessments now! It was exciting to grow alongside them and forge new bonds going forward. He’d allow the other pair to wrap themselves up before taking a seat with Saskia. *ೃ༄
Fern — -ˋˏ ༻❁ Fern would give a happy woof to Code and Ophaelos. Look at that! Her friends were climbing the ranks alongside her! New assessments, Woo! They can all learn together now, how fun indeed. “Congratulations you two!” Her tail would start to wave faster, almost forgetting about her tension of before. ❁༺ˎˊ-
Elvira — Elvira followed suit, standing up and shaking off the dirt leftover from the den they slept in. “Hopefully not in the same way we met those one wolves…” She was thinking about their encounter in the woods a few weeks ago, which scared the two faes to the core. “Let’s go, I guess… We have to stay quiet, we’re not going to be interrupting them again and getting both of us in trouble” She walked out of the den, waiting for Althea to follow her.
<Kova> she would smile warmly to each wolf and watched them take their places back amongst their fold. She would swing her tail and gave a low chuff again, kind of apologetic the fae had to move twice, but she offered a tone to two wolves. “Saskia and Panther, please come forward.”
⚜Saskia⚜ — Saskia would be just about seated when her name had been called. She looked between her court and the rock and smiled, moving towards the rock once more. As she approached, she’d seat herself on her haunches and look to Kova with a horribly hid sense of excitement.
Panther – His ears perked, had Saskia spoken to Kova about their courtship? He was curious, though mostly excited nonetheless. His tail swayed as he rose to his paws, padding toward the Alpha Rock alongside Saskia. He dipped his head to the Alphess, and awaited her words.
<Kova> “Saskia and Panther..” she began with soft but knowing tones. “You both have been a courted pair for many moons now. I bring you before the stone to ask of you both to see if your hearts have found their soulmates. Saskia, do you still wish to be named mate to Panther, and Panther, do you wish to be named mate to Saskia?”
<Calder> He’d smile to the new assessments before turning his ears forward to now gaze upon Panther and Saskia. He would offer a smile and a sway of his tail as he would listen to either’s hearts.
* Althea was careful with her paws as she padded behind Elvira. She knew that she had to mind her noise pollution, they would have to sneak away quietly due to the fact that they were a little close to Alpha Rock, near the ancient fire. Althea snuck in front of Elvira, heading southwest to near the clearing. ”Ya snooze ya loose, bozo..” Thea smacked her tail playfully on Elviras head and she skimpered forward.
* Leora she would remain beside her brother until he would approach the rock when he was called forward. She wondered what it was like to mentor another wolf! She was happy for both Ophaelos and Code’s assessmentships and then she looked to Panther and Saskia. She’d tilt her head curiously to the pair and to the naming of what they wished. Mates? She’d have to inquire.
Rook 📖 He hadn’t approached the stone when bade to do so. It wasn’t out of any emotional response, he just thought he was close enough and that the moment was that of the assessments, not himself. He’d catch up with Code when the festivities were in their lull and offer her both his personal congratulations and her first assignment. For now, however, the proceedings proceeded with courts being asked the potentially difficult question of further, chosen devotion…a common path to share for the time allotted. He’d look to Kova a moment, not understanding the danger he was in from potential questions from his younger sister.
⚜Saskia⚜ — Saskia would wave her tail furiously behind her, unable to contain her excitement. “Yes, yes…! I have walked the same path as Panther for many moons. Our hearts were meant for one another, and I am certain his beats the tempo as my own..” She spoke with confident, happy tones. She knew her heart belonged to the black brute beside her. She had no doubt he would say the same, would he not? She turned to look him in his eyes, awaiting his answer.
Althea — “I think I remember the clearing being up ahead!” Althea’s tongue hung out of her mouth from the exertion of the run. Althea glanced back at her companion and thought how lucky she was that Vira found her in that river that day and made the decision to stick with her. Their small little society of two was beginning to feel like a real home. “I’m excited to finally get some exercise… We have been so… so… stagnant.”
Elvira — Elvira and Althea continued running forward until a strong gust of wind blew the scents of many, many wolves to her nose. “Hold on….” She stopped to sniff the crisp, cold air. “There are so many wolves nearby…” Knowing Althea would want to go see what was happening, she looked over to her friend. She was scared, she didn’t want to interrupt, but meeting other wolves may be good for them both.
Panther – green gaze settled on Kova as she spoke, a light smile lighting up his features. He nodded in regards to Saskia’s tones. “We have walked the same path for many moons now, I have watched her become the fae she is now, and I would like to continue our path. As one.” He offered in light, happy tones. His tail swaying behind him as he looked to Kova.
* Kova as the pair would share their heart for one another, there was a soft expression given across her features. From Saskia’s tones, to Panther’s, she knew the heavy weight of their affection for one another, and the promise they shared between only two could. She’d catch Rook’s gaze, offering a gentle one in kind before turning back to Panther and Saskia. “As all have heard the heart and devotion for one another, such is the path of courts to being named a mated pair. I would like to have the honor of being the first to introduce the newest mated pair, Saskia and Panther. May your devotion and hearts continue to beat as one in this journey, together.” for this she would offer a sweet, low melodic howl for the pair. A song worthy to sing.
* Leora how curious this thing was. Mateship, huh? She would feel her paws shift a little and when her brother didn’t migrate far from her, she would nudge him lightly until Kova’s howl drew her attention away from said question that no doubt would arise. She looked to see Panther, her dear friend, come together in this thing called mateship. How curious. Yes, curious. She was happy for him, though! Despite the feelings of this new season, she was happy. She would smile and howl for both Saskia and Panther.
<Calder> When Panther and Saskia where named a mated pair, he would smile and when Kova howled, he would add his song and voice to the mix for the celebration of two becoming one. He’d feel the hearts shared and given.
⚜Saskia⚜ — Saskia’s heart would beat against her chest, and she’d pull her ears back in contentment as Kova’s howls and naming lifted into the air. Her court -.. mate’s words would find her in soft tones, and she would be grateful for them. Panther was her heart, and no wolf could ever compare to him. Not knowing if she was suppose to offer her voice for their own celebration, but she couldn’t hold it back. She’d lift her head into the air and let loose low, soft tones of her inner feelings; Completion. When she was finished, she’d nuzzle Panther on his chin and descend the throne, but not before offering Kova a silent, “Thank you..”
Rook
📖 Yes, a song worthy to sing indeed. When the Song was beckoned, it was made more whole with more notes; so, he would offer up his low howl to the sky in a hearty beckoning for the newly named pair. —danger, danger Will Robinson…the sixth sense of the Lore Master were slowly going off but likely not fast enough to avoid a barrage of questions after this. His own mind was on other things, occupied by his own questions.
Code — Code grinned, happy for Saskia and Panther. She added her voice to the song that rang out in the clearing, her tail wagging and wagging with joy for her friends. Mates! Oh, how wonderful! When the howls would cease, she would nod to Saskia with a smile, whispering a “congratulations!”.
<Kova> she would pick up Saskia’s thank you and smile warmly to the fae and gave them a nod to return back to their place with the others. When all the howls and notes where sung, she would shift her paws just a little on the stone if only to address the wolves of the pack. “Before I continue, is there any who wish to request of me, anything, for this meeting?” she had glanced across the
<Kova> gathered, hoping to to perhaps see Rune among the gathered at some point, before turning then to the rest momentarily. She knew where her hues desired to fall, but she kept them to each now to ensure she’d not miss any requests.
Fern — -ˋˏ ༻❁ How lovely! All of her friends were just getting it good this meeting weren’t they. Panther and Saskia’s love reminded her of a story, but she’ll have to save it for lore night… For now she would give a double stamp of her paws and a gentle yip for the mated pair! This was no doubt a meeting to remember. ❁༺ˎˊ-
⚜Saskia⚜ — Saskia would stop before reaching her spot and then back to face the stone for the third time. Was this going to be a habit? She’d hum and lift her head to meet Kova’s gaze. “I have a request.” It was something her and Kova had spoken about in the past, and now that her romantic bond had formed, she wanted to complete another bonding.
Elvira — Elvira followed Althea, temporarily stopping every little while to hear the sounds and scents getting closer, closer, closer. Once they got closer to the others, Elvira stopped them both to avoid barging in unannounced. Maybe, just maybe, one of the wolves at the meeting would notice them. Whatever did happen, Elvira tried to keep the pair of faes as calm and respectful as possible. In a low whisper, Elvira nudged Althea. “Stay quiet, we aren’t getting yelled at again. We don’t even know if we can be here.”
Ophaelos — .ೃ࿐ With a stamp of his paw and offering his own song, he’d extend his own gratitude to the pair. Ophaelos wasn’t a huge romantic anymore due to his own trials and tribulations that he’s been experiencing. By no means was he a cynic on their behalf, though, and would be delighted for the mated pair—love was a beautiful thing with a painful bite, after all. Eagerly, he’d listened to Kova’s further words and would wonder if anyone had anything else to add to this meeting. When he heard Saskia begin to speak, he would listen intently to his mentors request. *ೃ༄
Althea — Althea nodded her head in understanding and she sniffed the air. “The alpha…. Kova? I smell her…” Althea grinned. She was excited, she loved a good party!
Code — Code’s stomach flipped with nerves as she knew what Saskia was going to request but the worry was mixed with excitement and anticipation. She stepped forward next to Saskia, her smile widening and tail softly wagging. She nosed the fae warmly and turned her gaze to Kova.
Panther – He would’ve offered his own voice, though once it died down, he found his place among the crowd again. He watched his mate as she made it known she had a request, his head tilted. What was this request? He wondered. He kept quiet, and watched.
* Kova her eyes would fall then towards Saskia who would have meandered from the stone, only to turn around and request another. She smiled softly to the fae and would welcome her back forward. “Please share your request.” she’d invite her forward once more with a lightness to her expression and curious, to.
Rowan – She stamped her paw into the ground, a smile on her maw. Saskia and Panther, they had been courted, and now they were mated. She hummed softly, she would have to congratulate them at the end of the meeting. Though, her attention directed upon the dark fae as she spoke up about a request.
⚜Saskia⚜ — Saskia would hum. She wouldn’t burden the stone with a third approach of her own paws, but instead she’d stand at the base for now until Kova either denied or accepted her request. “Panther is not the only one I have bonded with since I’ve made WolfSpirits my home. Code has been by my side since the day of my arrival, and has taken a part in who I have become these days. We’ve become very close, and I have spoken to you as well as her about my request to become what WolfSpirits knows as a Spirit sister…” She’d pause and await Code’s expression before continuing. “We have both agreed it is what we want, for our paws to walk side by side as sisters not of blood, but of bond.” She’d conclude and pause, awaiting Kova’s response.
* Kova as Saskia approached with her request, she’d give a knowing smile. She knew well the strength and bonds between another who might not be shared in blood, but spirit. It was a unique honor that the pack would provide to those of the pack. She turned then to Code and offered the fae to come forward as well. She would seek Code to come forward as well. “I hear your request, Saskia. As a bonded wolf to another not of blood, but of Spirit, the sibling bond is a strong and true one. We are lucky to find a wolf whom we share our heart with, but not just as a singular bond, for we can share it with others to. I know well this bond.” her hues fell to Code then to Saskia. “If Code agree’s and you both feel strong for this to be made true, then, I would have the honor to name you both Spirit Siblings before the pack. To be recognized, named, and to share that continued bond with one another, throughout your journey within our home.” she would smile and gently stomp her paw to the stone.
<Calder> When Saskia stepped forward with her request and it to be made with Code, he smiled. He would give a gentel stomp of his paw for the pair of fae’s. He was happy the two of them found a common ground and heart with one another during their time in the fold of WolfSpirits.
* Leora she would watch all the gathered wolves, so many! She would be happy to see the others advance in their place in the pack, and as well hearts it would seem. Now spirit siblings? Oh, another thing she’d have to ask about! She swished her tail and not knowing the bounds of them fully yet, it was still a time to rejoice and feel the celebration and heart fulfillment to the pair. When they where named, she’d mimic Kova and stomp her paw.
⚜Saskia⚜ — Code’s words would warm her heart and she would look to Kova with knowing hues and a firm nod of her head. Would she notice the two newer fae’s coming into the clearing, if so she would greet them after the meeting, but for now there was an important moment to attend to. “It is as said, and true to our hearts. A bond we wish to seal, as Spirit Sisters..” She would smile at Kova, knowing she knew well of what bonds formed between the two faes based off of her own bond with Fianna.
* Kova she would look between Saskia and Code, and smile softly as she had given a firm and knowing nod. “It is an honor to name you spirit sisters, Code and Saskia. May your bonds continue to grow stronger.’ she would dip her head to the pair and happily wave her tail for the two.
Fern — -ˋˏ ༻❁ Hm? Spirit sister? What was that? After Kova’s little explanation she’d now understand. Fully agreeing that they were fit to be sisters by the bond they held. Fern still remembers to this day that Saskia had first mistaken her for the lighter fae, not to mention she talked about her all the time when she was missing. The golden fae would first give a knowing nod before her tail betrayed her seriousness with more waves of joy and a congratulatory yip! Yet again her friends were getting it SO good this meeting! Maybe one day Fern herself will find an unbreakable bond with someone, be it a mate or a spirit sister… ❁༺ˎˊ-
⚜Saskia⚜ — Saskia would wave her tail and dip her head to Kova before stamping a paw under her own frame for their bond. She looked back and moved between Code and her mate, nuzzling them both before seating herself and finally keeping quiet for the continuation of the meeting.
Rook 📖 Rook would offer a firm stamp to the earth below for the bond Saskia and Code had formed. There weren’t many present that he had found to kindle such a bond with, maybe Phoenix, but that was a product of fate and his own choices. Perhaps, one day he’d find someone to warrant such a title be given to the bond made. For now, his eyes once more looked to Kova.
* Kova when Saskia and Code would return to their favored places among the gathered, she would smile and swing her tail. The feeling jovial and light and it would radiate with the others. She once more scanned the gathered and allowed the floor to remain open for a request that might be needed and she just hadn’t the moment to share it before the meeting. “Does any others wish to come forward with a request?” would she notice the two faes in the distance yet?
<Calder> He’d remain seated and when the request floor was open, he would glance again to all the gathered wolves. He himself hadn’t found such a bond yet with another, but was hoping , with time, he might. For now he’d remain silent and listening. Wondering curiously where Fianna might be.
Ophaelos — .ೃ࿐ The sound of having a spirit sibling would cut close to the brute, who smiled and offered his stomp of approval. Losing Eýr was one of the most difficult losses Ophaelos had experienced. It rivaled losing his mate—that alone should convey the seriousness of such a subject. Similar to the others who seated themselves near the brute, Ophaelos would wonder if he, too, would share a similar bond with another wolf. His mind was mainly on the subject of a spirit sibling, not so much a mate… he was far too cynical at the moment to even begin to wonder if there was another in this pack who would work his way into his heart in such a way. It was far too early for him to begin to wonder about such things—both a mate and a spirit sibling—and would quickly shut down such ideas. Instead, he’d offer his kindness to the named-sisters in the form of a simper. *ೃ༄
* Daithi had spent his early hours rummaging through some brush and munching on some local berries that he had remembered were edible. They tasted tart but quenched a thirst deep in his belly and helped to get rid of that growling sensation. Whilest on pause to lap at some icey water from a stream he was near, could be hear voices on the wind in the far distance? The howls of many… Curiosity could potentially get the best of him had it
* Daithi not been for his timid nature, instead… he carefully stepped his way towards the voices… He carefully stepped through the dense wooded vale, his paws light on the cold solid ground. Passed the ancient sentinels that protected these woods, they whispered to him as a pup. He would never forget their words… but for now, he continued forward. Until the sun stretched for undergrowth and barren roots that occasionally peeked out
* Daithi from the dense packed snow. He stayed in the tree line, a pale apparition against the trees, until he circled around to be able to see fur and tail of the wolves he heard earlier. Remaining there, he stayed put, quietly contemplating for awhile
Rook 📖 The sound of celebration would die down once more, and he would listen and watch in the brief silence that accompanied the lull between Kova’s question and the here and now…the heart racing, heart pounding now. He would nose at his sister, if nothing more than for courage and approach the base of the stone to look up to Kova.
“I only ask of you the world as I know and feel it. I ask to share a common tale with the time given us and to weave one for the telling when our time has passed. Forgive me my boldness, but I ask a life-long barter of a story for a story.”
They had shared moments of honest vulnerability in private; the moments that temper the heart but that do nothing to harden it. Such fire and coal analogies so often break here in the details, but that was because it wasn’t a steel to be forged in these moments…it was an alloy. Such metallurgy took time, knowledge, and great care to form a stronger material than what was present separately. This…this was the right analogy and whether he was the chromium to her cobalt+nickel or it was the other’way’round…the end to strive for was the strongest material known.
Panther – He had formed the mate bond with Saskia, and Saskia had formed a sisterly bond with Code. He smiled, nuzzling his mate as she settled beside him again. He glanced around, sighing. This reminded him he wanted to speak with Sanek, but it didn’t seem as though the brute was around. Perhaps they could catch up later, he hoped so.
<Kova> her hues would fall towards the stone hued frame of the Lore Master as he had approached in the boughts of silence from the others. There would be a softness to her expression, a knowing kindle that began to ignite within her own. She’d not appointed another higher ranked wolf yet to their fold, and so, such ceremonies would be given in what her words offered next. But first, she would slowly descend the rock so that she’d be even with Rook and stepped forward until she brushed her nose to his lightly. “Share with two souls, and we will share in freedoms tale.” she’d offer in light tones before her tail swung ever so. If a wolf could blush, surely her cheeks would be rosey like a fresh spring flower. She’d feel her own heart pulsate against her chest for the moments of shared heart in the ancient wood, would be revealed to the others in the open upon his request. She’d give another moment more before she would swing her tail and address the others. “Rook, I accept your heart and give mine in full and in kind. To explore the paths together and grow stronger in those intricate, but beautiful threads of bondship. I accept your heart as I hope you to mine, and I would be honored to be your court and to join on a journey that of moon and earth can share.” her tail would betray her inner thoughts for it’d be hard to stop it’s sway as she pressed her crown into his, so her chest may press against his own. If only to share their beating hearts, to slow and pace as one.
Rowan – She tilted her head, spirit sisters, huh? Her ears perked, she hummed softly. She glanced between Saskia and Code, would she find a Spirit Sibling while she roamed this pack’s lands? Would she bond with anyone as these wolves have? As she was deep in thought, watching the happenings of the meeting, she likely wouldn’t notice the two visitors watching them.
⚜Saskia⚜ — Now, saying Saskia was shook was an understatement. Kova… courting Rook? She should’ve seen it coming! Saskia would turn and perk her ears, tail still behind her as she listened to the love language the two rarely, practically never shared. Would Rook show emotion in this moment? She’d look to her mate with a subtle glint of suspense in her eyes, watching the Alpha and the Lore Master. When Code snuggled close, she’d wrap her tail around the fae’s hindquarters but couldn’t keep her gaze off the two at hand.
Rook
📖 Rook would watch Kova and read the words written gently, boldly, with elegant grace and that were hewn upon her frame. His heart continued to race, and he did what he could to steady it in the interceding moments before her voice offered her reprieve from the unbound seas he found himself awash in. A beacon…a lodestar to which to swim toward and swim he would…When she accepted his offer and offered her own heart in kind, he momentarily bowed his head. The weight was born aloft his neck, but it was no albatross; this weight was the torc within which a great deal of magic was kindled. This weight was the stone that completed the stone.
Rook would not contain the happiness and levity Kova’s words and acceptance offered, and he’d not let her wait a moment longer to accept her own “Your heart is safe with me, mo réalta thuaidh. Your tale is told with every swift beat of my heart.”
Fern — -ˋˏ ༻❁ Ha! Fern knew it! She knew those suspicious looks they were giving each other as they went alone into the Ancient Forest that one day weren’t for nothing. But if we’re honest here the idea of Kova courting Rook was quite the surprise to all. Her ears too would be perked with interest as she watched what went down. What a special day it was, a day of love as it seemed it would flow in and out of almost everyone who went up to the Alpha Stone. ❁༺ˎ
Panther – Panther tilted his head, curious. Another courted pair? Kova and Rook, he had missed their longing gazes that no doubt wandered to each other from time to time, so he was definitely surprised. His eyes were curious, would Rook become Alpha alongside Kova? Or remain Lore Master? He seemed to lean towards the stone, interested. He caught himself and instead leaned into his mate.
* Kova there would be no betraying how she felt, for she felt this way for sometime. The stone hued male of the Mean Oiche had stolen her heart perhaps sometime ago, but after a pause and breath of recent events, and time shared and spent closer together, she knew where her heart truly and wanted to belong. She would gruuu softly against his crown and nuzzled into his chest. His words binding to
<Kova> her heart like a special golden thread, now firmly tethered to her. To his promise, she’d offer her own. “And yours is safe with me. A tale tethered to one another for as long as the threads will last..” She would gently place her paw atop his own briefly, knowing he knew of it’s meaning before she would feel her heart race until she’d let loose a gentle, low song for their
<Kova> courtship!
* Leora she would give a swing of her tail to both Saskia and Code. How exciting, she thought! It was there she would be left to her own when her brother took a few paces forward. She blinked and tilted her head and when the pair seemed to share a lovers story, she blinked even more. Her eyes where like “@o@”. So many questions now fell into the forefront and now they where burning to be asked! But this was a special moment, so, she kept to herself. Did she notice Althea and Elvira yet? Her eyes where glued and when Kova howeled for the courtship to her brother, she felt her own howl added in kind! So.many.questions.
⚜Saskia⚜ — A song that was worth sharing, indeed! Saskia would look back to her mate with an awwe look in her hues. She stamped her right paw firmly, happy for the two as they began their long yearned-for journey of love. She too wondered if Rook would become Alpha alongside Kova, but deep down she felt he would not uphold such titles and none would live up to his own of Lore Master. She’d wait for Rook to sing his song before she offered her own into the sky. A night of love, kinship, and bonding as they lived yet another year in the intricate threads of time; 22 years to be exact!
Rook 📖 One more quiet moment out at sea and he was on the shore of a new and wonderous venture. The air within him swelled bringing the cold winter’s air within what felt like a smelter. He breathed a long and low breath before then lifting his own note skyward. Song and story were sang and written but not yet fully. This was a barter he would honor until the last of his breaths fell and until the silent name given him left this world for the memory of another’s story told.
Quietly now, he would press the crown of his head to Kova’s shoulder and move to sit beside his sister, Leora. He had much to answer, he knew.
Ophaelos — .ೃ࿐ A courtship was a lovely thing—he remembers the two separate times he was courted. Although, he’s never mentioned the first to anyone. Ahh… he could feel the puppy love from here. He’d stomp his paw, offering his song to the sky to celebrate their union. It seems the season brought on many feelings for everyone! He hadn’t been here long enough to notice Kova and Rook’s affection toward each other, but it was clear they felt heavily for one another. The air between them was palpable, even from where the brute sat. *ೃ༄
Panther – An ‘awwwe’ look was shared with his mate. Now that he thought about it, he and Saskia courted before the alpha, was that weird? He shook his head, glancing back to the courted pair. He stamped his paw and he would offer his own voice once the Alphess and Lore Master did.
<Kova> there would be another soft but hard felt nuzzle to his shoulder and frame swiftly before she would step from her court (insert hehe here), and up the slope of the rock she’d go. When she reached it’s edge, she would stand there again and offer a warm but soft expression to the wolves present. Her tail would sway behind her with a little more air before she’d offer. She’d let loose a gentle breath and seeing Rowan among the others, she would offer to the fae to come forward.
Rowan – She watched the happenings of the clearing, unaware of the two newcomers. Her tail swayed, she offered a stomped paw in regards to the new courted pair. She rose to her paws noticing Kova beckoned her forth, she offered a subtle smile and padded forwards.
<Kova> when the fae would come forward, she smiled. “Rowan, you have been a pledge for sometime now, and I wanted to ask you now, if you are ready to proceed to the next step of Assessmentship and your journey with WolfSpirits to become a member?” eyes would be light and curious to the fae’s response.
*Rowan She glanced first towards Ophaelos, they had pledged together, she hummed softly then looked towards the Alphess. “My paws have wandered, but I believe this is my second chance at a permanent home. If you will allow it of me, I would like to proceed and take the next step.” She offered in light tones, giving a firm nod to Kova’s words. If the alphess were to accept, who would her mentor be?
<Kova> “As an assessment of WolfSpirits, you will learn more intricately the ways of the pack and fold you are about to join. I will name your mentor now, as Shakira.” she would look across the gathered wolves to the Lead Huntress. She’d invite the fae to come forward if she wished. “Shakira will help lend and give her knowledge to you so that you may grow stronger in knowing the pack ways and rules, and as well, your own path to joining us. Do you accept your next step and journey?”
Ophaelos — .ೃ࿐ A smile would find him as Rowan was called to pledge. Indeed, he would catch her glance and would offer a respectful bow of his head. This was exciting—for both of them, he’d like to think. He was worried for a moment that, due to her lack of appearance lately, she wouldn’t have the privilege to ascend with him. Alas, by Kova’s gracious philosophy, she would be joining not only him and Code but Fern and Cajun as well! *ೃ༄
Rook
📖 When the rest of the proceedings were at a place for the teller of tale to tell tale of tinkering, he’d spin the yarn.
“Ar aird…Ar Aird! Winter’s worst has waned and the hunter’s time of ease has gone. Ahead lie the months of toil…toil for new mouths and new kin. Toil for prey who no longer slog through the snows we grace our wide paws upon. Today marks the end of Winter’s worst and the beginning of Spring of bounty and hardship. ”
He would stamp his paws heartily upon the earth beneath him and call out again
“AR AIRD! AR AIRD!!! The bonds of Fenrir are broken and the beast runs free at the behest of the Lord of the Wild, Cernunnos! The hunt, the wild, and the wild places of the lands grow ever so more wild under his direction, and we…we must grow all the wilder.”
OOC—- A new discord-side hunting bot is ready, and it entails a host of changes and simplifications. An easy word document will be posted summarizing the commands to use, and a quick/easy demonstration will be given shortly.
The quick and dirty changes: Your health does not reset after every hunt. You must rest and eat meals to steadily replenish your health, of you should seek out the Caretaker for harsher wounds, because she alone can deem you worthy of hunting again. Every meal provided by the prey is calculated by the average maximum meal a wolf can eat, so you are limited to 1 meal every other day. Fishing and predator tracking are not yet available, but are coming soon.
Questions?
