Beneath Our Paws; The Densite <Main IC Thread~>

[SweetPotatoPie]

Bhaltair
Rank: Sitter
Location: Healer's Den - Mute's Den
Bhaltair was a little unsure of the situation but it soon resolved without too much trouble. He was sent here on a mission for Vitani, but things weren’t going well as it was. He considered bringing up the subject again, but he was a bit hesitant when Tsuki joined them. She’d been with their alpha, for quite sometime. He’d noticed them together but hadn’t much thought about it at first. Now, though, thinking about the conversation with Vitani and the subject, perhaps he should hold up bringing up the ceremony for now, just to see where this was going. He watched the healer carefully as she came to stand beside them, wondering if he should be keeping a better eye out for her. It wasn’t in his nature to naturally be suspicious, but things were changing quickly in the pack and he wasn’t sure it was for the better. “As long as everything is fine.” He shrugged off the subject, not really wanting to pry into her business with the alpha.

He looked towards where the other wolves had been before turning to Tsuki “It’s alight now. Some bullies came through to try and pick a fight, I think.” He grumbled, an irritable emotion sounding from his voice that seemed out of place coming from him. He wasn’t the type to be too upset over things, but even he had his limits on what he was okay with in the pack.

He glanced to Mute and thought he saw something like disappointment on his features, but at what he wasn’t so sure. The moment was fleeting, as if it hadn’t been there at all and easily missed. Bhaltair liked to pride himself in being able to understand his pack mates, even the unpredictable ones that were more aggressive than peaceful. He was a wolf watcher; he was used to keeping a keen eye out for everything. Especially when it came to the pups. “I doubt they’ll leave him alone. They seemed determined. I don’t think Mute should be left alone with them lurking about in such a mood.” His voice was calm, but stern as he glared at the space the wolves once were. He had no doubt Mute could hold his own, but that didn’t mean he should by himself.

[Delrowe]

JUNO
Rank: Hunter
Location: Main Densites
There she stood, waiting on her small group. The sun was high and as Juno tilted her gaze to the sky, the light blinded her pale amber eyes. Ducking her head back down, she glanced about for her party members. They were to go on a hunt. It was common practice for the female as she was one of the few wolves who provided nourishment to her pack-mates. She particularly enjoyed the trips outside the mundane area where they resided. It was refreshing and got her heart pumping a little more than lounging around. She also enjoyed the smells of the forest, her more wild instincts coming to life as she hunted. Exhilaration and vigor to finish the task at hand was something she relished. Her muscles twitched at the thought of giving chase, having been side-lined for a bit from a slightly twisted paw, she was itching to jump back into her role as a Hunter. Juno believed she could have just ignored the injury, but the others insisted.

Her face remained expressionless as two other wolves approached but she was a bit annoyed at the time they took to get ready. Finally, they could set out soon. Juno nodded a simple greeting to them both but quickly perked her ears in confusion as a large male headed toward the group now. She was under the impression there were only two others were joining her today. Whatever, as long as he knew what he was doing and didn't get in the way. She wasn't an unpleasant wolf, or at least she didn't mean to be, Juno just struggled to make small talk. She can't be bothered to waste her breath on trivial matters that don't get anything accomplished. She pulled her attention from the latest arrival and addressed the group as a whole.

"Everyone ready?" Juno spoke, her voice low and even. It was more rhetorical than a question warranting a reply from everyone.

[Loremaster Kenchi]

>*< Machamoti-Chi >*<
The Sunhome Sentinel
Location: The Main Densite, Kiowa Pack Territory.
Company: Juno.
Perimeter Sense: N/A
Rank: Warrior

"No matter how the wind howls, the mountain cannot bow to it...

Gentle gales kissed the early morning sun. What greater comfort they must've brought to the gentle giant that finished that called the lively forest home. You could've fooled him in trying to express how chipper the temperature was this morning, and his heart would've heard none of it. The sun was out, therefore, so was he. He had long since grown to appreciate the gentle glow upon his face. It was the warmth he longed to spread. And his smile could not have been more genuine or appreciative as his masculine paws carried him gracefully to the clearing. Rock and stone; gingerly making their way through the light snowy blanket that tucked in the earth: in an inadvertent sense of lumbering grace.

Theme: Juno meets The Sunhome Sentinel.

Machamoti-Chi was undoubtedly one of the largest wolves in the pack, easily among the late-Memnoch's weight class, a mountain among canines. The sheer volume of his snow and mercury-silver fur coat only added to the image of his girth. Additionally, he carried the scents of vanilla and coriander within his pelt. His chest and shoulders rippled with the intensity of a bulwark. Hence, the generous stockiness of his haunches and legs could have easily been compared to the icy stalagmites that decorated blizzard caverns. His fluffy ears flirted with the voices of the earth that danced through the grass and trees and his dark puppy browns greeted his charges with the candor of an affectionate friend.
Like so many days before, he greeted the hunting party with said signature smile and amicability. To greet his neighbors were considered one of life's simple pleasures...one of his favorites, actually. Juno was no exception. Despite her default expression usually pertaining to some level of inquisitive sass, her adorable soft ambers usually betrayed otherwise from his perspective. From her fuzzy crown to her curvaceous haunches, he truly did consider her a beautiful wolf. And, admittedly, at first sight her athletic build had him enamored. In all honesty, it was thanks to watching her passion during the hunt that inspired him to take on escort missions. The huntress reminded him how important it was to strive. To hone an honest dedication in regards to the desired perfection in one's career.

With morning greetings completed and all required in assembly, Machamoti-Chi took his station at the rear of the hunting party to ensure the trackers had full purview of the front to guide the hunters in the center. Naturally, he saved his dialogue towards Juno for last. "Wh'y beauty-full mornin' Miss Juno. Isle be 'companying y'all as yer escort detail , so pleas pardin m'lateness." his thick Chi-clan-signature accent would flow like raw maple syrup as he gave her a charming wink.

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...so too must my heroism prevail, that I can disprove the evil in others.

[Delrowe]

JUNO
Rank: Hunter
Location: Main Densites
Company: Machamoti-Chi

A female of rather small stature, the contrast between her and the big white wolf was startling. Not to mention their differing pelt colors. The two couldn't be more opposite. Though she is dainty, she has commendable strength and can put up a fight with whoever may be foolish enough to challenge her. She's scrappy, resourceful, and is most often surprising to her adversaries. She looked to the wolves who would be joining her hunt, and thought to herself how their hunt would go. They seemed like a good, solid group of wolves who could take down anything they set their minds to. Then her gaze once more landed on the large male that had been late to join them. If nothing else, his size impressed her. If anyone were to bother them for their kill, Machamoti would have no issue at all shaking them off. Juno wasn't one of those females who doted over the masculine males but she could recognize a handsome and well-built wolf. Machamoti-Chi hit all the marks.

Juno turned towards the edge of the clearing and began following the trackers to start the hunt. She immediately assumed her natural stance, one that was second nature to her. Her head dropped low, even with her shoulders. Her amber eyes were wide and carefully scanning. Her ears were angled forward, trained to every little noise that may funnel through them. Her nose was attuned to all the smells that would aid her. Her attention was fully focused on the path ahead of her...until she heard his voice. If Juno wasn't assigned to a task, she was usually sitting at the edge of the clearing, away from everyone else, and most often kept to herself. So, when his rich vocals made their way to her ears, she almost stumbled over a large tree root that buckled up out of the ground. Machamoti's voice was a very distinct sound so she must have never paid attention when he was around. Her thoughts were usually elsewhere anyhow. Come to think of it, she couldn't recall a single time they had a meaningful conversation with each other. What a shame, because his voice was so intriguing that it almost made Juno want to speak more to him, to draw more words from his mouth. Almost. She swung her head around to face him, a small hint of an awkward nod making itself known before facing the forest.

"You're pardoned, I didn't realize you'd be joining us today, Machamoti-Chi," Juno stated simply, her own voice a monotonous tone that almost seemed forced. A small part of her was glad it was him. She didn't quite get along with one of the other escorts that sometimes accompanied her. He was an obnoxious, pompous type that didn't sit well with her.

[Loremaster Kenchi]

>*< Machamoti-Chi >*<
The Sunhome Sentinel
Location: The Main Densite, Kiowa Pack Territory.
Company: Juno.
Perimeter Sense: Relic
Rank: Warrior
Theme: Juno meets The Sunhome Sentinel.

"No matter how the wind howls, the mountain cannot bow to it...

Machamoti-Chi kept a large gate as his paws swept over the snow below him; his graceful lumber carrying him forward in the same smooth manner a large white puffy cumulous cloud would drift through the sky. In all honesty, he was usually far too large to be stealthy or dexterous, hence his propensity to remain at the very back of a hunting party...or downwind for the matter. More-so, his silver dustings made him stick a bit too much out there for blending in with large drifts of snow.
He was...just sh*t out of luck for hunting or tracking.

To be fair, even after Juno took her working pose, he hadn't expected her to speak to him so soon. They hadn't even left the densite yet after all. This gave him a hearty chuckle. He was glad to see her fired up for work this early in the morning. Even if she didn't have a habit for small talk or making conversation; he'd like to think she was becoming more comfortable around him.
Hm? Relly-now? Jus coincidence, is all. I happin t'be on call t'day. Till midnight, actually. Biggun' t'day. Much like the catch yer sher to haulin' t'day." He'd compliment her with a carefree nature; his deep brown wells taking a moment to shimmer her way. Taking a moment to crack his neck and pause his steps to give his spine a gooooooOOOOooodd sttttRRRRRrrrrEEEEeeeeeeccchh, he'd release a cozy-mornin' yawn before inquiring: So, whatcha' got on the men-ew t'day?"

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...so too must my heroism prevail, that I can disprove the evil in others.

[Delrowe]

JUNO
Rank: Hunter
Location: Main Densites, heading out into Kiowa Pack territory
Company: Machamoti-Chi, Relic, other unnamed NPCs

The large wolf lumbered behind her, and you would assume him to be clumsy and a bit of an oaf due to his size, yet he moved with purpose and grace. Her own paws landed lightly upon the ground, her movements quick and deliberate. A fallen tree blocked her immediate path, the large trunk resting against another. She ducked under and into the little cubby-hole created by the cascading limbs and leaves, the leaves tickling her back as she slinked underneath it. Her skin prickled at the feeling and she gave her pelt a light shake before falling back into step.

His words once again caused her ears to swivel back in his direction as he spoke. His accent was so different, so light-hearted and full of happiness. Was that a compliment she heard? No, just general conversation. She decided to leave it at that. Juno was quiet, for sure, but she also felt like she had something to prove. She thrives on praise and will naturally gravitate towards those who give her any. At his question, she pondered for a moment before deciding on boar. It was something the three of them could easily take down and it was her favorite, after all. She couldn't remember the last time she had boar, come to think of it.

"Boar. Sound good?" She responded dryly, keeping her eyes ahead of her as she continued on into the forest.

[SweetPotatoPie]

Relic
Rank: Tracker
With:Ku'Jin, Sasha | Machamoti-Chi, Juno, Npc Tracker
Location: Following Juno's Lead
OOC: I hope it was okay that I brought them back!

Relic was concerned for her fellow Tracker, the way he seemed so distraught. It seemed more than just not remembering the ceremony. She wanted to help him feel better, but she knew there was nothing she could do at the moment. Her ears twitched; she heard a voice. Her mother was meandering over to her, the cold clearly getting to her limbs. The old wolf would never admit to it, but in the cold, she appeared extra stiff. She chuckled softly, “It would seem I’m needed. Sasha, please look out for him okay?” She urged. She looked at the seemingly defeated male before her and pressed forward to nuzzle him affectionately. Relic was never one to hide affection for anyone be them friend or her mother, she was passionate in every action she had. So impulse decisions like this was part of the norm for her. “I volunteered for a hunt, but I’ll be back soon.” She spoke as she backed up and turned to her mother who immediately began to berate her about tardiness and keeping other wolves waiting. The old wolf reached out to nip at her flank, causing Relic to whip back around with her own snap. “I know, I know!” She barked irritably as she took off at a trot towards the hunting party that already had begun to gather.

She took a moment more to glance at Ku’Jin and Sasha with concern before looking to the huntress for orders. She barely had to look down at Juno, they were practically the same height except for an inch or two that Relic had. She had hunted with Juno before and had no problems, she preferred her. The quieter wolf helped her focus more on the task instead of having idle chatter as the young wolf was so prone to do if not kept in check. Relic glanced over and noticed one of the larger warriors lumbering over to join them, making her faulter just a bit. Most of the other wolves she thought were so cool at what they did, but she hadn’t worked with him much and hoped she wouldn’t screw up not just in front of him but Juno as well.

The tracker watched their exchange with a small smile, the way she seemed to just shrug off his smooth-talking charm. Yes, this will be an interesting hunt, she thought to herself, letting herself indulge in a quick stretch to prepare herself for work. She shook to shake the lazy out of her limbs and looked to Juno to lead. They started to head out, her smile never leaving as she observed the two. When encountering the fallen tree, she debated on going over or under. While she’d love to jump, it was
probably better to stay quieter and go under. She didn’t have any problems herself, but she was curious if the warrior could make it. “Don’t get yourself stuck.” She chuckled, though she expected him to go over no under. Relic was quick to fall back into step with Juno. She glanced at the other tracker, wondering if they were just as entertained as Machamoti-Chi asked what they were hunting. Honestly, that was a good question.

It was decided on Boar, which made her excited. They were more fun to hunt than deer, mostly because they were more of a challenge. Taking it down would be more on Juno. She and the other tracker’s job were to track it and assist if necessary. “Oh, this is going to be so much fun!” Relic beamed. “Should we head to the forest or to the river, maybe see if we can find some tracks in the mud?” She questioned, though looking down at her paws, it was pretty snowy still so there was a good chance they might find them hiding in the thick foliage instead of by the water. With it being so cold, she doubted they would even be thirsty. “Actually, forest would probably be the better idea, wouldn’t it?” She turned to the others, they were more experienced than herself and would know better.

[Loremaster Kenchi]

>*< Machamoti-Chi >*<
The Sunhome Sentinel
Location: The Main Densite, Kiowa Pack Territory.
Company: Juno.
Perimeter Sense: Relic
Rank: Warrior
Theme:...

"No matter how the wind howls, the mountain cannot bow to it...

The snowy white titan kept his distance with a calm and steady look about him. He seemed to appreciate the mundane , little things. Much like this walk towards the hunting grounds in the forest. The sun on his face. The breeze teasing his nostrils. All good, little things. So it took little to snap him out of his temporary daydream when his hunting compatriot mentioned "bar."
"Mmmmm! Boar, y'say? That sounds m'ighty fine. M'ighty fine indeed, Miss Juno." He would give a hearty smile of approval as he watched her duck under the fallen, moss-cloaked sentinel ahead.
No sooner had the words left his mouth, had Relic joined them. Another beauty, by all brute accounts in the pack. Her tawny brown coat had become her trademark in the winter months. And her fellow trackers often teased how scrawny she had been in her youth. Nearly as much as Ku'Jin. And no one should be more scrawny than that black, fluffy ball of joy. Poor guy. And Macha had seen him eat! He could seriously put it away! So how did he and 'ol Reli here stay so skinny, yet still so fit? Sheesh...the troubles with being big. Not with mentioning; arguments persisted to this day if she or her mother held the title of fluffiest ears.
"Stuck? Gnome, rest assured, I ain't gettin' stuck. Dontchu' worry nun, Miss Reli." He confirmed good-naturedly, playfully swatting her direction with the enormous raccoon-duster of a tail he had.
Thus, being too big to fit under, or too heavy to bound over...Machamoti just simply walked around. No need to strain himself unnecessarily...and lift the poor thing completely off the ground. Casually strolling around, seeing Juno clear off her pelt and resume her serious pose, he couldn't help but chuckle. She missed a spot. Seeing the small straggler shift from her crown down her muzzle gave him the impression that nature confirmed her fur coat may be too soft to simply let go.
It settled politely on her nose, before Machamoti-Chi gave a powerful huff just strong enough to tilt the leaf off-kilter; causing it to slide off. "Missed won. No w'rries, I gotchyer back tho'." another charming wink before taking a moment to confirm the familiar surroundings. "Either iz fine wit me, ladies. Its yer show.

((Alrighty! I believe that is all for the hunting party! ;3 We can resume in the Forest thread next. Miss Del, it will be your turn to start us off. Post order will go: Del, Sweet, then some douche-canoe wiff the hick wolf. X3 ))

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...so too must my heroism prevail, that I can disprove the evil in others.

[finalwolf]

Tsuki the healer

With: Mute, Jadene, Bhaltair
Mood: Unsure
Location: Main densites

Tsuki smiled a bit seeing Mute, but even she had taken notice that he had flinched around her. Perhaps it was how she had spent so much time with Zuya. While she thought back on it, and knew she shouldn't mention anything about Ryka, she wanted to, but just him. The other thought was, while the Ryka part wanted her to be close to Zuya, Tsuki's heart actually wanted to go back to the old cabin where she was raised. Perhaps going there would clear her mind of any cloudiness.

It wont. Your job is to stay here, next to Zuya. Ryka spoke as she stood in front of Tsuki.

Tsuki's ears lowered just slightly at Ryka's words. Ryka was right, but she hated how much her head seemed to be in a fog. Tsuki shifted her gaze and looked over at Bhaltair when he spoke. "The bullies should just pick on themselves." Tsuki sighed. "I'm not doing anything right now. I can stay with Mute, if you have something to do." She meant that. She wanted to go for that walk and to talk with Mute. To tell him all, but with no other ears around.

You tell him and he wont be your friend any longer, you know. Zuya is the only one that needs to know.

Tsuki's ears lowered slightly once more. Instead, she looked back to Mute, and took a seat next to him. "Besides, Mute and I are going to go for a walk, stretch out a bit. How you feeling?" She looked at Mute, still worried about all of his injuries he had sustained the other day. She couldn't forget about the wolves back up on the mountain. Surely the wolves that where now bothering Mute, where friends of the wolf that had died from the fall.

[KillxLucky]

Name: Ku'Jin
Rank: Kiowa Tracker
Location: The River
Company: Relic, Sasha
Out.Of.Character~ Testing coding. Let me know if the 'speech' chat for Ku'Jin is hard to see for anyone. How does it look? Which looks better on your pc, the bold or the none bold?

The girls were trying their best to help Ku’Jin understand his uncanny predicament. Maybe Sasha was right. This emptiness he felt, deep in the pit of his stomach, that nagged at his heart, was a part of himself that he was missing. The black tracker squeezed his eyes open and shut a few times, trying to clear his head of so many racing thoughts. The hunt that got him hurt seemed to have really done damage to his way of thinking. It was .. frustrating, to say the least. It was scary. Relic was the next one who pulled him from his thoughts as she decided to go on ahead after they all returned to the densite. He nodded in her direction as he watched her depart their little tracker group. A soft whine escaped his maw once more as a part of him tugged after the young fae, not wanting her to leave so soon. However, Ku'Jin understood he couldn’t hold the ambitious tracker back. Relic was the type of wolf that needed to be out, lending a paw where she could, and helping to keep the pack safe. Still, he worried for his friend's safety. What if she disappeared and he had trouble remembering her too? Oh, the horror of it all! Ku’Jin’s ears flattened against his head, his multicolored hues watching the hunting party’s retreating frames. “Please let them be okay.” He whispered, though he was sure Sasha was close enough to hear his words which were soon lost on the wind. He turned his head toward Sasha, that same brazen, worried expression was plainly plastered on his face, clear for her to see. “W.. will they be okay, Sasha?” The words choked out, as if the brute might burst out in short sobs then and there. Ku'Jin swallowed hard, trying to force himself to calm down. The hunt and losing 'someone' was really taking a toll on him. The brute thought back to the possibility of trying to see who exactly he was missing? Who was it that was tugging at his heartstrings so? 'It's.. not as easy as simply searching for someone or counting heads.' He thought to himself. What else could he do? His bones were chilly from being out searching so long already. Still, he couldn't just sit around and do nothing. The hunting party had already left and he would probably be more of a hindrance than a help anyway. “Is there anything you need help with, Sasha?”  He blurted out suddenly, clearly trying to focus his mind on a different subject. “Should we run more rounds? M-maybe we could help dig a new den for new members?” The black brute started to throw out anything at this point, and the desperation for a distraction was heavily laced in his words.

[Loremaster Kenchi]

)+( Mute )+(
The Furtive Spook
Location: Main Densites, Kiowa Territory.
Company: Jadene, Bhaltair, and Tsuki.
Perimeter Sense: Vitani and Slash.
Rank: Kiowa Ingyanga
Theme:...

"I see them, the souls that struggle with the dark...

"Booring..."
"Then make yourself useful for a change and go hunting!"
"Pff, he's too lazy for that."
"Seriously, things at the densite are really boring! Why can't the festival be here already?"
"Bellyaching about the moon festival already?"
"Well, I like boring. That means nothing is wrong- Hey, has anyone seen Alpha Zuya?"

Mute did not feel like he had much room to talk at this point. His lips pursed in concern. As much as Tsuki was trying to come acrossed as casual; he had his doubts. Pecado's siblings were different animals than their brother. He was in rather rough shape, and would likely be so for an untold number of weeks. Cracked ribs were a real trial to heal. And Tsuki smelling like Zuya only added to the worry. As pleasing as a stroll sounded; Mute couldn't help but continue to worry about matters beyond his control. Bhaltair was also prone to minding such things, by his recollection. The ingyanga took a moment to ponder; risking the danger of being lost in thought on the spot. Taking into account, his recent dilemma, Mute couldn't remember when he had felt this indecisive. He had always made it a point to have a plan.
During this time in pause, Mute took a moment to look up at the sky as the other two exchanged a few sentences.

If only he could speak...maybe then he could add voice to his meandering thoughts.

Then again, there was no affirmation hearing himself think allowed would improve his situation. In all due reality, perhaps he was going to think himself to death. It was choking and frustrating not being able to voice his concerns to his friends. This...this really sucked. Mute furled his brow in consternation before finally settling on the obvious point: he really couldn't bring himself to make up his mind right now. Well, on much of anything. Part of him wanted to get away. And part of him wanted to go back to sleep...but when he did...all he could see was Pecado's distorted corpse. Mute winced before returning his gaze back to his two visitors. Perhaps there was really nothing he could do for now. It didn't occur to him his fellow ingyanga wanted to steal him away for a walk to confide in him. Yet, even small talk could be better than the mire seeping in his mind right now.
Mute managed to nod to her before giving a sympathetic look to the sitter in question. And, well, Bhaltair being here reminded him that perhaps visiting the pups some more may do him some good.
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...I see them, my silence beckons them, yet they do not come.

[finalwolf]

Sasha the Tracker


With: Ku'Jin
Feeling: Concern
Where: Den site

Sasha looked at Relic and nodded her head. "Don't worry, I'll keep an eye on him. You go help with the hunt, good luck." While she was good at tracking, and enjoyed it, she, herself, would rather not attend any hunts. They where risky, and she had seen many wolves get hurt during one, like Ku'Jin. Of course she always went when they needed help and did her part in it. Sasha nuzzled Ku'Jin just slightly when he whined seeing Relic leave. He was worried, he didn't even have to say anything, she could pick it up on his scent. She heard him whisper to let them be okay. "They'll be fine. That's a good hunting group there. Just watch, they'll be back before you know it with some tasty food." Sasha put on a smile and swished her tail a bit. She was growing more and more worried about Ku'Jin's mental health the longer she stayed by his side today.

Had that blow to his head done damage that couldn't be repaired? If so, it wasn't like the healers could do much for that. It'd hurt though to see Ku'Jin have to retire from being a tracker though. He was still young and he was skilled. Perhaps all he needed was time.

Ku'Jin caught Sasha off guard when he started asking if she needed help and then suggesting things they should do. Clearly he didn't want to rest, which he should. Digging a new den would be a bit much for him. "I think we could walk around the densite, on the outskirts, just making sure everything seems in tact. If you want to go out further we can." They had enough den space for now with the deaths that had happened lately. While she would suggest going by the river or even the waterfall, she didn't think that was a good idea, not with what happened earlier. She also had a feeling that Ku'Jin wanted to still stay close to the pack.

"On my last travel alone, I went to the borders again. Went a bit past them though. I found this small spring there, bit cold to go in and enjoy it, but I should take you there some time. I'm sure you'd like it." Sasha thought perhaps talking about something good might help. "I also noticed a deer herd near it too, along with rabbits. I think come Spring, we'll see a lot more animals there. Have you found anything of interest on your tracking searches?" Hopeful, this may change Ku'Jin's train of thought and he'd relax and just talk now as they would walk around.

[KillxLucky]

☪〈 Update 〉 ↘

☪ Weather: Cloudy. Cold. Light winds. The sun has gone down. The air is cold. Snow continues to blanket the ground, though much of it has melted from the sunny day. Some areas of the forest and densite may be most wet and muddy than usual.

☪ Time of Day: Nighttime, new moon (no moonlight), stars in the sky are easier to see.

☪ Last Hunt: Page 1. An Adult Male Elk. (An Auto'd hunt). The Elk carcass has already lost majority of it's nutritious content. Mostly bones and bits of frozen flesh remain.

☪ Last Timeskip. Page 4.

[SweetPotatoPie]

Kize
Rank: Elder
Location: Near Nuka and Jag
OOC:
Kize offered a pleasant smile, and a tail wag as Jag greeted her. She wasn’t nearly as boisterous as her daughter, at least not these days. She snorted at Nuka’s response, rolling her eyes at his wink, though she did enjoy the banter. Her ears pricked, listening as he explained what he had to offer and what stories he could share. When wolves got to as old as them, they often had many tales to share. Though she wouldn’t admit it, she too enjoyed hearing them. Kize watched as he looked into the sun and, for a moment, admired his seemingly wistful expression. A seasoned wolf who has experienced and seen too many things. Much like herself, if she were being honest. The world is not kind to many, and survival pushes even the kindest wolf to their limits.

His warning almost seemed ominous and resonated in her weary bones. It wasn’t the first time she’d made a trek to a new territory, though she wondered if it would be her last. The world was getting grimmer, harsher, and she was growing tired. She remembered the last time she’d made a journey when she was about Relic’s age with her own parents. She was much stronger back than. She was a fierce she-wolf that let nothing stand in her way. Now, some days she felt like a shadow of the young wolf she’d once been. She thought to the pack she’d joined back then, under a different leader. That thought made her wonder if this pack could make a journey to somewhere new…and who would survive to see it. How many would fall to their own member’s claws?

As it grew darker, Kize remembered Relic had volunteered for a hunt. She glanced around, noticing the shadows growing darker around them. There was a small group already by the edge of the densite, but Relic was nowhere to be seen. Her fur bristled as she tuned out the boys near her. Where was that pup? She got up, not bothering to excuse herself. Half of her had forgotten that was a thing, focused on finding her spawn. “Relic, where are you.” She grumbled under her breath as her eyes scanned the wolves around her. She spied her on the edges of the den site with two others and brought herself up to her full height to bark at her, “Relic! Have you forgotten your responsibilities?” She gruffed as she went to meet her daughter.

Her eyes narrowed as she watched her interact with a male, looking down her snout as the young wolf nuzzled him. She briefly wondered if her daughter had finally found a male worthy of her time, though Kize had hoped it would have been a wolf of hire ranking. When Relic was closer, she reached out to nip at her flanks. “Hurry up, I raised you better than to be tardy!”  She didn’t so much as flinch as Relic whipped around in retaliation, instead slowed as he pup quickened her pace. A rare soft, proud smile appeared on her snout as she watched her join them and head out. For a moment, she was sad as she remembered her own hunts and adventures. She could probably still hunt if she tried. Still, she always needed assistance, and she was so tired afterward, especially in the cold.

She meandered back to join Nuka and Jag. “Do you even think this lot of wolves can make the journey to a new play?” She grumbled half-heartedly. “Can’t even make it to a hunt on time.” While the example wasn’t great, she was concerned. It was more along the lines of her previous thoughts of wondering which wolves would actually make it to their destination.

[SweetPotatoPie]

Bhaltair
Rank: Sitter
Location: Healer's Den - Mute's Den
Bhaltair’s expression was tense as he nodded in agreement. He wasn’t a fighter, but he was a big wolf and knew how to throw his weight around. He wasn’t completely inept at fighting; in order to protect the other sitters and especially the pups, he learned a thing or two. But he wasn’t a seasoned warrior. Bullies though? He had no problem putting them in their place. Just the thought of them made his blood boil and fight back a snarl. He had no patience for it. Tsuki’s next comment made him school his expression to keep himself from anxiously glancing between them. Vitani wanted him to talk to Mute and everyone else about Elder’s Moon. Still, his gut instincts said to tread carefully right now. Vinati’s voice from the conversation before echoed in his thoughts, “I’m counting on you”. His mind made up, he calculated how to go about the conversation.

The big sitter turned his full attention back to the two and answered Tsuki before she swept Mute away, “Of course.” He ducked his head, a nod of acknowledgment that she wished to speak with Mute alone. “But first, I was curious what on your thoughts about Elder’s Moon?” He baited, hoping she would linger for a moment longer so he could not only see how deeply aligned she was with the wolf who’s scent was thick in her fur but to gauge Mute’s reaction too. The wolf wasn’t one for words, which meant his language was through body language. “A lot of rumors are spreading quickly of what might be involved, but what do you think?” He wouldn’t be able to talk anyone out of it right now, but he could certainly see their thoughts. Bhaltair had a suspicion that Tsuki would be all for this event, which cut a clear line between the two. He glanced up, noticing that it had grown dark while he was here. The shadows seemed to grow larger, reaching out to swallow those who lost their way. But he’d never been afraid of the dark; he was a beacon of light and stood tall in the face of darkness.

[KillxLucky]

Name: Ku'Jin
Rank: Kiowa Tracker
Location: The Densite
Company: Sasha
Out.Of.Character~ 

Ku'Jin was happy that Sasha seemed to understand that he was not at all interested in simply sitting still and resting. How could he do such a thing when he was missing someone? He was pleased that she would also spend some extra time with him. At least he did not have to say it out loud.. that he did not want to be left alone. “I think a walk around the den's perimeter would be.. helpful.” He said softly and started off on their patrol. His pace was slower than normal, his bones still felt frosty and difficult to move. Still, it was nice to get the blood pumping. It was dark out now, which made it harder to see. No moon helped to illuminate their way. Ku'Jin's gaze remained fixated on the path before them, concentrating extra hard on the ground and trying not to trip on covered rocks or shrubs. His ears twitched in Sasha's direction as she spoke-- the only indicator that he was actually paying attention to her findings and not just zoning out. After she finished speaking, Ku'Jin began to explain how he had spotted a few purple flowers attempting to peel through the snow. Spring was indeed approaching for the pack.

As Ku'Jin spoke of the flowers, his mood seemed to visibly lighten. “They were a deep purple.. like when the sun meets the horizon. That sort of purple.” He paused to look at Sasha, a bit sheepishly, though he smiled. “There was only a few of them, maybe two or three but they were there. Their petals smelled really sweet too. Actually...” He took a second, thinking over his words. “I had been thinking of them during my last hunt. Right before things kicked up and I had gotten hurt. I was thinking about the Spring and how nice it would be to see more green instead of cold, wet snow.” He shivered lightly at the thought. Then it occurred to him that perhaps Sasha was attempting to gain more useful information from him.  “But.. I guess you probably meant more of what sort of animals?” Ku'Jin shook his head softly. “I thought I might have caught the scent of a bear not too long ago but I wasn't entirely sure.” His nose began to twitch. “It could have been my imagination though, it's hard to tell the difference between my mind and reality lately.” He laughed softly, attempting to play off the mention of any bears in the area.

[KillxLucky]

Name: Nuka
Rank: Pack Member, Former Inyanga
Company: Jag, Kize
Location: Densite

Nuka watched Kize's retreating frame as she suddenly dismissed herself without much direction as to where she was going or if she would even be back. His pale yellow eyes blinked rapidly after her. Had he said something offensive? He mulled over the thoughts to himself. Soft, inaudible, grumbling escaped his muzzle as he replayed the conversation between Kize, Jag and himself. As he did so, he did remember that Jag had voiced his concern on what would happen once Zuya learned more of the truth and if he would actually believe any of it. “That..” he began, “.. is up to Alpha Zuya to decide.” Nuka gave Jag a stern look, as if perhaps leading him onto more than he was willing to voice out loud. “For right now, our alpha is the one who gets to decide these things. Others are free to challenge him and his ideology if they so choose.” Nuka looked as if he wanted to say more, but decided to dead that part of the conversation for the time being. Who knows what wandering ears might have been eavesdropping. “It's almost time.” Nuka looked up at the moonless sky and his eyebrows furrowed. No clouds covered the sky, which made the wintry night a little more chilly than usual. The stars were big and bright, a welcome and fitting invitation to the conversation they would all soon have. However, he had been sure that tonight would be a full moon. In fact, he had told the alpha earlier that there would be one. He shifted quietly, growing uneasy. From what he could remember, the tales of Elder's Moon were best told when there was actually a full moon. Oh, how on Earth could he have gotten the moon dates wrong?! And tonight of all nights!

(mini timeskip) Jag and Nuka continued chatting among themselves, mostly about Jag's concerns, even though Nuka tried heavily to steer away from certain topics and flat out refused to answer certain questions prematurely, no matter how much Jag asked or circled back to the initial conversation. Nuka was trying to avoid thinking about the lack of moon too. Deep down he hoped it would suddenly appear over the horizon sometime throughout the night. It wasn't too long before Kiza returned, picking up on a topic that they all spoke about previously. Nuka shared Kize's concern and it showed in his eyes as they twinkled under the starlight. It would be a difficult journey for many of their pack mates, physically but also mentally. There was no doubt in his mind about that. “I sure hope so,” He replied, solemnly. Nuka gave Kize a reassuring smile. “Don't worry, I will make sure we don't leave you or anyone else behind.” He told her. Hopefully she held enough confidence in him and the pack that his words would provide some sort of comfort. Even if they did not, he was still going to make sure he made good on his word. He would do whatever he could to help get everyone to their new home safely. It was the very least he could do. “Shall we?” He asked the pair, standing and starting toward the middle of the densite where other members would soon be gathering, if they haven't already, to hear the stories he planned to share about the pack's past and why Elder Moon came to be. As the time grew near, Nuka found himself growing nervous. What if other weren't receptive to what he had to say? What if he misspoke? Where was the full moon tonight? Should they continue or should he move it to another night? Perhaps it would be a bad omen to reinstate Elder's Moon on a moonless night. Oh dear, he hoped he would be helping the pack more than stirring up any sort of mischief..


“”

[KillxLucky]

Name: Zuya
Rank: Kiowa Alpha
Location: Densite
Out Of Character: Cont'd from the 'River' thread

The fae seemed to be in a rather pleasant mood in contrast to Zuya's broodish one. Her gesture to stifle a laugh hadn't gone unnoticed by brute. As she continued, stating her interest in meeting the rest of the fact. A twitch of his right ear was the only indication that he was paying her any mind. He was becoming irritated with her bubbly and lighthearted persona.

When the pair made it back to the densite, Zuya immediately took notice of the absence of the hunters and a few scouts. Good. It wouldn't be long before they returned with food. This brought a question to the brute's mind. Zuya's stride suddenly ceased as he spun to face the black fae beside him. “Just because you think you were an alpha in your old pack does not mean you don't need to pull your weight around here. For the time being, you'll still be an outsider. However, I expect you to settle on a rank three nights from tonight.” An eyebrow quirked upward. Even though it would take her a while to become a pack member, let alone gain a rank, atleast they both would have an idea of where she would end up. “Are you a scout or a hunter?” Zuya assumed she would obtain one of those ranks based off first impressions. Although, who knew, perhaps she would surprise him.

For a moment it seemed as though Zuya had completely ignored her question from before. However, he did take the time to answer. “You will find out when we get there,” He said suddenly, completely out of context, though he cared little. At least she had gotten an answer, even if it had been majorly delayed.

“”

[Loremaster Kenchi]

(-/-/-)Lavi (-/-/-)
The Twilight Messiah
Location: Kiowa Densite
Company: Zuya.
Perimeter Sense: Bhaltair, Mute, and Nuka
Rank: Outsider





"Cursing both Sun and Moon, Twilight sent her one and only daughter to carry the sins of the world...

Lavi had followed behind Zuya's footsteps with eager anticipation. Each new stride was lap towards a new adventure, after all. And Kiowa territory was brimming with new smells and sights. The woodlands here made a stark contrast against the marshlands back home. The air was far from musty and the water flowing along the creek beds were exceptionally clear. The trees towered high above her. The ground consisted of a greater firmness. It remained within these instances why Lavi hadn't thought to visit this land before. Her silver-serpent eyes trailed along the ridges of the rolling hills, mossy mounds, and the curves along Zuya's back. Not to her surprise, he fit right in with the scenery. She couldn't help but smirk at the notion; how evident one's homeland made one's form feel apart of it.

Theme: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=86eo7w1kz4s

And then, they arrived at their destination. The Kiowa Densight.
Lavi approached the rising trail towards the common area like no one short of royalty. Her head was held high and in kind regard for her surroundings. Her lush coat trailed around her crown, bussom, and hind quarters like a starlit gown of the starry sky. She was hellbent on making a memorable first impression. Her gaze danced along the cozy collection of caverns, burrows, and uprooted tree hedges where they met the ground. The air was welcoming here; warmer even. Despite the temperature outdoors, the countless tracks, curious onlookers, and den-spotted landscape gave her a nostalgic feeling. There was something...disgusting~ about it. An illness that couldn't be named, though Lavi knew it's particulars well. Her new alpha spoke...
"Three evenings shall be more than enough time." she reassured him with a thoughtful glance. "Your generosity is too kind." she added.

His question gave her a moment of pause as she brought up a paw to rest under her chin thoughtfully. "You said it yourself, I was once an alpha. I am traditionally trained in all standard rankings within a pack. After all, I was expected to know all of their functions with such well-spread experience. I am confident in my ability to meet all standards. However, if you were trying to probe what rank is preferred...a Sitter's delight is my pride and joy." upon the sentence's end, her face lit up with a generous-beaming smile. Her silver mirrors were sure to give off a dangerous sparkle. It did make sense, while he had a modicum of talent in all fields, Sitter was by far her preferred role. And the intent was obvious: raising/brainwashing(poisoning) the next generation. A good teacher knew that the structures of power lied within the next generation. Scouting had its thrills for tantalizing the senses. A hunter had the pleasure of testing the boundaries of predatory superiority. A warrior thrived in order and competition amongst one's peers. A Ingyanga's playground for nurturing intelligence through nature's balms, and more intricately: toxins, teased and challenged the mind. But, no, care-giver and overseer of the young was her favorite position to hold.
At least...it was the most likely to carry her on towards her goal of absolution whilst waiting to find out "when we get there" wherever "there" was.

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...and indeed a Messiah was sent, a great Leviathan, to cannibalize life into death. Amen.