Return of the Kings [Kastiel, Open]

[Toiro]

Toiro trudged warily across the former lands of Salen. Surely they must be nearly there; nearly at the end of their long journey. He lifted his nose and sniffed at the air, yearning for the cool forest scents of his home.

The alpha and the beta had been away for far too long. A strong sense of foreboding lurked deep inside Toiro’s heart. He was beginning to think that their journey hadn’t been worth it. After all, what had they really done? Sure, they’d formed an alliance with Haishin, but with the way things were going there would be no need for one pack to help the other anytime soon.
And Zahir... Upon reaching the territory of Zahir, they had howled but no answer had been given. They had been wary about going too far into the desert to see whether the territory was even occupied because they didn’t want to get caught out by the heat of midday, so the only thing they could do was to turn around and head home. But... maybe that one alliance was worth it. Maybe it would make the difference if Airila experienced any difficulties further down the track.

Toiro’s ears perked forwards as he emerged from the forest and stepped out onto the long stretch of grass between the territories of Acerbus and Shyia.
It was an amazing sight. The tips of the Tia’deli Mountains rose up out of the cool green forest. At this time of year there was little snow on the peaks, so the earthy browns and greens dominated the territory.

“We’re home!” Toiro whispered excitedly, his gaze fixed on the majestic landscape. As if his own words had broken a trance, he leapt to his paws and raced towards Shyia. He covered the distance between the territories quickly and was soon amongst the comforting moss-laden branches of the Xayar forest.
He tipped his head back and let loose a mighty howl that echoed faintly off the mountain peaks.

“To the pack of Airila! Kastiel and I have returned! We are sorry that we left you for so long, but we are glad for your persistence in sticking around. Thank you, members of Airila, for being so loyal to this pack! We really appreciate it!”

Toiro sat back on his haunches, a smile on his mouth as he revelled in the feeling of finally being home. He waited patiently for the answering howls. He waited… and waited. They never came. Not a single howl. Not. A. Single. One.

As he drew in a deep breath, preparing to sigh, he noticed that the border marks were stale. His spirits, high in the sky only minutes before, plummeted until they felt as if they were miles beneath the earth. The sigh came out in a big whoosh.

Well, at least no other packs or loners stole the territory while we were away… Toiro thought miserably. He screwed up his muzzle in disgust. What a hopeless optimist. He should really just stop trying.
“My pack…” he whispered “Gone” He stared in anguish at the silent territory. It suddenly seemed like a very lonely place.
“I am never leaving Shyia again” Toiro’s voice quavered with grief. How could they have left? How could they? He sank to the ground and buried his head under his paws. Maybe he was just doomed to fail.


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[seadragoness]

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[bg=000000][atrb=background,http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff153/Lumarinam/kastiel-background.png] Kastiel found his naturally steady legs shaking beneath him as they swallowed the ground at a steady pace. He longed to stretch out his forepaws in a mass, never ending pass that would carry him through these lands and back to the place he had begun to call home. Longing, and needing to be where the wolves he had begun to know as his family would be. He did not allow his mind to wonder on the journey so close to being past them. He was unsure if the criteria of his alpha had been met – if he achieved all that he had hoped to. Surely the one alliance would do for now. The strongest pack surviving so far by the sounds of it was the ones they were friends with. The second pack out there that they had caught wind of did not appear to be too great. Considering that on there arrival, even after there howls had taken the air none had come to greet them. This told him that if there was a pack that at all they where not great enough in numbers to risk meeting a stranger, or simply did not prefer to mingle, either way they where clearly not alliance material. His only real concern now, was Torio’s pack, it had been too long since he had seen the friendly wolves of home and he longed to know that they where okay. When the mountains of home broke into view, when the pack lands expanded before them and the familiar scents rolled about him he could not hold back his excitement. Seeing it in Toiro’s eyes he anticipated what happened next. As his Alpha broke into a run towards there home land the beta followed suit. Faster and faster, until the wind whipping about his face held nothing but the scent of everything that was before them. When Toiro’s howl touched this wind, Kastiel raised his head and joined his voice to his leaders until there howls carried into Shyia. Before they reached the territory his stride faulted. All this talk of scents that he longed to breath in once more where not the same. The border line was murky and stale, like it had not been refreshed in far too long. The wind that carried there howl was lonely and quite in an air that was quickly becoming still. He turned to warn his leader, but he knew in an instance that the other had already realised. There home... was empty. As his alpha fell to sorrow, Kastiel stood storng beside him. He turned to nuzzle the other’s shoulder, a gesture of comfort. “I will not leave you, dear leader. Not so long ago we started this pack just the two of us. It did not take long them for numbers to join us, and it will not take long now. Maybe even those we know will return to us, Torio – do not give up hope now, for as long as there is life there is hope” He tried to comfort the other

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[duchess]

Duchess had been keeping to the western territories for more than a year. Her thin, lithe frame was someone bony, lacking proper nutrition. Living on her own had been difficult, to say the least. Used to a pampered life under the protection of humans, she had not been ready to face the nightmare that was the real world. She was like a child that had been coddled, watched one too many Disney movies, and then was tossed out on the street to fend for herself. She went from having her family to having no one. She went from having everything to having nothing.

Last winter she had gotten herself stuck in the mountains of the Oriens. It hadn't been pleasant but somehow she'd managed to survive. Even with scarce prey and a body type not suited for harsh winters, she had somehow managed to hold on. In fact, she kind of liked the cold. It was numb. Numb was how she'd felt ever since she'd been set free in these lands. So, to make a home in conditions that reflected her heart, it didn't seem like such a bad idea.

She couldn't stay in the Oriens though. There was nothing there. No one. She had called out sometimes, in a desperate hope of meeting someone else. A part of her was always secretly glad when no one answered though. As much as she wanted to meet someone, to find a home, she didn't have the faintest idea of how to go about it. She didn't know what she would do once she met someone else. A shy creature, getting to know others was not the easiest thing in the world.

But Duchess had descended the mounts with a new resolve. It was autumn now, and winter would be hot on its heels. If she wanted to make it through another winter she would need to have a home. She would have to swallow her fears, step into her courage, and charge head first into the unknown. So she made her way westward, in the direction that packs were rumored to be.

Tiayr had yielded no promise. The lands were deserted, barren. Any scents that lingered there were stale, dead, extinct. It was a good stopping point though. The hilly terrain was not easy to navigate and the trip down the mountains had exhausted her. Prey was more plentiful here too and she'd managed to gorge herself on a few plump rabbits preparing for winter hibernation. She put on some weight in the time she spent there, and chilly loneliness was an ever present reminder not to dawdle too long.

Shyia was next, and she had not set two paws into the territory when it offered her more promise than the previous land. She froze on the border as a strong howl carried on the wind, echoed by his second in command. There was a pack here!

More nervous than she had been in ages, the little Red female stayed put and listened. Her large ears were alert, straining to catch the sounds of more happy cries. How large was this pack? What kind of wolves lived here? Could this be her new home? But no more songs ever came. Alpha and beta had cried out to receive no answer. It was a worrying thought, but one that touched her heart. Lifting her head, Duchess let out a shy, melodic howl, answering the alpha's call.

She then pressed further into the territory, following the only strong scents she could pick up. Her steps were cautious, head, ears, and tail kept low, but she was compelled to walk forward. The silence after such a happy cry had been almost painful. A sweet girl by nature, she wanted to help, to offer comfort. She wanted to be a sign of hope.

Shy yellow eyes peered at two males as she entered their clearing, posture submissive but kind. The younger male looked distressed; her heart ached for him. And slowly she stepped forward, eyes focused on the ground, until she was close enough that the could see her clearly but far enough that she would be able to run if need be. She spoke no words, waiting instead for them to draw the connection that it had been she who had answered the cal, waiting for them to judge.

[Deleted]

As she laid silently within her den, huddled in a corner, unwilling to move, she believed she was dreaming at the sound that pierced her ears. Her golden eyes gazed around tiredly. She was scared and so alone, unknowing of what to do now that everyone had vanished. She had been praying for so long that her leaders would come home soon, and that the others were all right. Haze had gone and Valmai as well, leaving her to watch over one massive area that she knew she would not be able to defend herself. The Warrior felt more alone than ever, just wishing for someone to return, to approach her and be her friend, perhaps even take her away to a place where she could live happily and without worrying that they would leave her again. She fought back the tears, scrunching up her muzzle and flattening her ears to ignore the sound.

However, Spirit was intent to listen when she heard the sentence, faintly at first. It grew stronger when she lifted her head to focus upon it. She was stunned, not wanting to believe that what was being said on the wind was true. She was finally aware that she was not dreaming, despite the exhaustion she had felt from wearing herself thin. Between watching the borders and patrolling constantly, she was a mess, and had not found the time to eat. She felt weak, but the call had instilled a hope within her and she leaped to her feet, quavering as she stumbled out from the den. She was weak, from lack of food and water, which she had brought upon herself, and she looked utterly disgusting. To her, it felt as though she had only patrolled last night, when in reality it had more than likely been days. She was aware of this, though unwilling to believe it.

Spirit then propelled herself forward, not able to bring herself to call back to her Alpha. Her voice was strained and her throat was dry. Her black, silver, and red fur was in clumps in certain places, disheveled and not well kept. Her joints ached slightly as she hurled herself through the forest, tracing the call with her still keen senses. As she ran, she began to wonder what she had done. She had allowed herself to be consumed by the loneliness that surrounded her, when she should have stayed positive and strong just so that her leaders would have something to return to. She suddenly felt horrid, but that did not stop her from running. Her heart pounded in her chest, excitement and adrenaline pulsing through her veins. Her legs pumped harder with each step, all too eager to reach them, just to see them here once more.

The Tundra wolf burst through the trees and into the small clearing, bringing herself to a halt just feet from the ones she had been missing all this time. Panting heavily, her coat was drenched in sweat and her chest hurt from the pounding within. Her eyes gazed softly upon the two standing there, noticing how let down they seemed. Was it because they believed no one was here? Well, she was, and she would have never given up on them. She had been ready to at one point, but she was not anymore. There was a drive behind her heart now, pushing her to become what she had been at one point, before they had left. Her loneliness was leaving her slowly and all she could do for a moment was grin stupidly at them. Then she realized that they might not recognize her, as horrid as her appearance was, but she just stepped forwards.

"Torio... Kastiel..." Spirit breathed, voice hoarse and weak, yet her eyes glittering strongly. "You're home... You're finally home!" She could not help but yip and wiggle excitedly for a moment, then brought herself to settle down some, wanting to face the shame she felt. She suddenly felt old, slumping her behind to the ground and lowering her head, afraid to meet their gazes. "F-forgive me...Haze and Valmai disappeared. Once that happened, I found it hard to keep up with the daily duties. I'm afraid I didn't do so well in keeping the territory marked... Someone could have taken it..." The female felt horrid, which caused a slight tremble to rock through her body. Her golden eyes caught sight of the stranger nearby, but for the moment she didn't feel the need to confront her, for she did not seem to be a threat. Instead, she offered her a calm smile.

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[Toiro]

Toiro lay limply on the ground, utterly defeated. He closed his eyes, trying to remember those few happy months before he and Kastiel had left. The pack had numbered six then: Toiro, Kastiel, Spirit, Valmai, Haze, and the newest member, Dusk. Where had they all gone? Haze and Dusk he could understand, for they had never really fit into the pack. Those two were better suited to loner life. Valmai had probably just forgotten that she’d joined in the first place, although he had expected her to stick around. But he hadn’t really expected Spirit to leave. She was so strong, both mentally and physically, and she’d seemed so determined to help them. Well, he couldn’t blame her really. When everyone had suddenly disappeared she would have felt so abandoned.

Toiro was broken out of his gloomy thoughts by an affectionate nuzzle. From his Beta, of course. Toiro lifted his head and smiled weakly up at the older wolf, glad of the support that his friend gave him but still terribly depressed by his pack’s disbandment. He nodded numbly at Kastiel’s words. It was true, what he said, and they both knew that the young alpha would keep trying until Airila was successful, but Toiro still couldn’t help but feel that all his efforts in building the pack had been in vain.
A great big sigh expressed what he could not say aloud. It was his fault that the others had left. If he’d stayed in the territory, maybe the pack would still be living happily together.

Suddenly a soft beautiful howl broke through the silence of the evening. Toiro’s ears perked up straight, and he scrambled to his paws, completely focused on the somewhat eerie sound. His heart pounded in his chest, awakened by the fresh hope he always felt at the possibility of a new member. He waited eagerly, certain that the stranger would make her way over to where they stood.
Toiro’s tail wagged lightly. Maybe it wouldn’t be so hard to rebuild Airila; and this time he would be certain to make no mistakes.

Soon enough, a gentle looking she-wolf appeared at the edge of the clearing, shyly making her way closer to the two Airilians. There was no doubt in Toiro’s mind that it was she who had made the call. Her quiet beauty and almost hesitant posture matched her song perfectly. He was entranced by her soft movements and her kind golden eyes. If both of his former lovers hadn't died, maybe, just maybe, he would have been interested in this female.

Toiro shook his head, clearing the thoughts from his head. He tried to make himself smile gently at the femme, but his joy and excitement made it end up as a silly grin. “Welcome to Shyia. I am Toiro, alpha of the pack called Airila, and this is my beta, Kastiel” He shot a sly glance at Kastiel, remembering the reprimands he’d once been given for acting too warmly towards loners.

Suddenly, the introductions were interrupted. A female Tundra wolf barreled into the middle of the clearing, skidding to a stop just before she crashed into Toiro. The alpha blinked in surprise. It took him a couple of seconds to recognise who it was underneath the messy mass of dirt that covered her once pretty coat.

“Spirit!” he blurted out ecstatically, rushing forwards to nuzzle her despite the filthy condition she was in. He winced when he heard her cracked hoarse voice. No wonder she hadn’t called out to them.
Toiro shook his head emphatically as he listened to her story. “No Spirit, forgive me. I shouldn’t have ever left you. It’s not your fault that one wolf can’t mark the entire border and do the duties of an entire pack. You’ve coped wonderfully under the circumstances… although... you do need to be cleaned up a bit.” He wrinkled up his nose in exaggerated disgust, a friendly twinkle in his eye.


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[seadragoness]

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[bg=000000][atrb=background,http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff153/Lumarinam/kastiel-background.png] Kastiel lifted is head as the soft, melodic howl whispered through the air. It spoke of a gentle, shy wolf, just out view. His eyes scanned the pack lands, looking for the one behind the beutiful call. He was rewarded by a sight of her, as the tentive wolf stood just shy of being invisible altogehter, hidding in the distance as through afraid of what may become of her if she was to appear before the males. His eyes trained upon the sight of this stranger, he nearly missed the other wolf - would have if it wasn't for her entrance. Bursting into view as through she was afraid she might blink first, and miss the sight that greeted her. Her she was - just when all hope had been lost for the two brutes, here she was. Spirit, a loyal, faithful member of there pack was just before them now. he was nearly afraid he was imagining things himself, that his eyes decieved him purely for want of it to be true. But no, the nearly frightened look of suspension was not one he would have imagined to cross her fine features, the hesitant, nervous words that left her mouth would never have been his first impression of a renioun between himself, the Alpha, and this loyal warrior. "There is nothing to forgive, Spirit - you did well, in simply staying and for that I thank you" He tried to reasure her, realising that there would be plenty of changes in consiquence of there leaving. The life had returned to his Alpha now, the young wolf had returned to his senses - joy even had taken his expressions as he looked towards the stunning newcommer. Warm introductions left his maw as he was quick to assure the other on who they where. Kastiel lowered, and raised his head in a polite but silent greeting. The smile on his face warm enough to assure the other that his silence was simply his way. His attention was consumed by Spirit now, however. The wolf he had known to be so strong - admired her for it even! She had fallen to dispair, consumed by it even. He could not stand to see this gentle, compassionate wolf in the state that she was in. "Dear Spirit, you'll be back to the crazy wolf we know time - i'll make sure of it!" he promised her, his voice light, teasing, unwilling to fall to he heavier atmosphere that hung over his dear friend.

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Manip {c} Haptic to Sea <3

[Deleted]

It didn't take long to reach the place were the howl was released. And it didn't take him long to spot the small group of wolves. One, a male, dark only to grow darker. His grey eyes were bright as he spoke to the larger of the two females. Whose name, he picked up, was Spirit. She was dark, like the first male, but with a silver streak down the length of her back. The other female, shy and quiet, obviously not a concrete member of the pack by her behavior around seemingly unfamiliar wolves. Finally, the second male.He was the largest of the wolves, but the first female, Spirit, was about the same size. Strange for a female. But, Cas was bigger than all of them. He had a good two inches on the largest male and a good thirty pounds as well. Not that he would have been intimidated, after all he had met that huge brute, and he couldn't help but think that he would not have been impressed with this pack. He was much bigger than Castien, and Castien was bigger than him. He would have given these wolves the same treatment he received.

Now that he had a grip on what to expect. Sort of. He never knew what to expect anymore. He only hoped that these wolves would not turn on him, they seemed pretty accepting of the new female, but look at the size of her. Cas had to be more than twice her weight.. Soaking wet. But, he was here for a reason and he was not going to turn back now.

He gave a low bark, announcing his presence as to not startle anyone before stepping out of the shadows and into view of the pack wolves. Again, he stayed silent out of respect for the alpha, allowing him to speak first, so Cas would show him that he was in charge, in command. Cas would submit to him, like a good follower, he wasn't the ambitious and intimidating wolf he first appeared to be. And he would show them that.

[duchess]

She received a warm greeting from the one who identified himself as the alpha, Toiro, and a polite nod from Kastiel, the beta. This in turn brought a tentative smile to her face. She kept her eyes down though, actually letting them drift closed. This would be easier if she wasn't looking at them. It would be easier if she couldn't see them looking at her. It would be easier if the only remaining pack mate hadn't picked that moment to barrel through the trees like a steam roller and cause what she considered to be a great deal of commotion.

As wonderful as it was to know Airila still had some semblance of a functioning pack, Spirit's entrance had done the opposite to the Red wolf's mood. Duchess was timid, skittish in situations she was uncomfortable with. She had not been expecting the spirited Spirit and this whole mess had been much easier when she thought she was joining in the midst of despair. If the pack was in mourning, chances are it wouldn't have had much lower to sink and she would have been able to start fresh with them, from the ground up. This new, joyous energy, however, equated this small band of wolves to the larger packs now. It had history and a rather impressive standard set by the single female who had been able to make it through the absence of leadership.

Would she be expected to persevere like Spirit? Were such trials of loneliness and hard, individual work common here? Would she... Duchess gulped. Would she be compared to this remarkable specimen of female strength whom, even filthy and malnourished, was a greater beacon of light than she could ever hope to be?

Duchess tucked her tail behind her legs, ears flattening even more against her skull. She was nervous and scared and couldn't seem to stop questioning why she was there and what she was doing. She wasn't ready for this yet! She should... she should just go! Yes, that was the answer! It wouldn't be all that hard to turn around and march right out of there, returning when her courage had returned and she could have a private audience with the leaders instead of facing judgement in front of the entire pack.

Except for that minor detail that she had howled, had answered their call. A soft, confused whimper left her muzzle, her face scrunching slightly as if she was trying to hold back tears. What was she doing, considering running away? That wasn't the answer; running away was never the answer. She was here now and she had to follow through with her actions. She intended to join so she would. There was no turning back. She could do this!

Duchess whimpered again, unable to move from where she stood. A bark had caught her off guard and further diminished what little resolve she was still clinging to. Why did so many wolves suddenly have to come out of the woodwork and complicate everything? She was nervous and uncomfortable to begin with. The larger the group got, the worse off she was. She could feel mind retreating, closing off, being suffocated by the sort of painful shyness that left one socially awkward. Maybe if she kept her eyes closed they would all vanish and she would be okay again? Except that once she had them firmly shut she wasn't sure she wanted to open them again...

A third whimper left her maw, this one sounding a little helpless. She felt lost and confused and nothing was going how she had planned it out in her mind. She felt trapped like a deer in headlights, unable to flee because it would be impolite but wanting nothing more than to get out of there and let her head cool down. All she could do was hope that someone would provide a bit of direction, guild her out of this bundle of nervous energy she was slowly turning into. Because she was like a shrinking violet, one whom would only bloom with the proper sort of coaxing. Hopefully these Airila wolves would be gentle towards her.

[Deleted]

Her tail curled with joy, wagging back and forth as she stood up carefully to greet her Alpha. As he nuzzled her, she returned the notion and nudged him lightly, a low whine leaving her throat. She was so happy that they were back, for now she did not feel as lonely, especially since Haze and Valmai had vanished some time ago. She hated the loneliness and it was something no wolf should ever have to go through, something that should be prevented and avoided at all costs. It was one of the few things that could shred a person apart from the inside out with time, destroying them completely beyond recognition. It was a terrifying thing, and it was the one thing that she did not want to go through. Originally, she had been content with Kastiel and Torio leaving her there with the other two, but she'd had the other two, then they disappeared.

Her ears flattened slightly. ”You need not apologize for anything, my Alpha, and thank you for the praise, though I feel I don't deserve it. I am just so glad you are both home!” She nuzzled his shoulder gently with her cold nose and smiled gently at him, chuckling at the twinkle in his eye. She glanced over her tattered self. ”Yes, I suppose that could use some work... I’ll get that done.” All the while, she couldn't help but smile at the two of them, for she loved her packmates so much, and she was all too ecstatic that they had finally returned to her and the lands. However, she was saddened when the other two had disappeared, for she had loved them just as much, and she hated losing things, especially those very close to her. An image of the male that had at one point was meant to be her mate flashed through her head, and she cringed slightly, though pushed it away quickly. There were more important things at hand right now.

Her golden eyes turned on Kastiel now, and she smirked at his words. ”You're very welcome, Beta Boy.” She teased, a playful expression on her face. Already, she was beginning to feel her old self crack out of the shell she had been hiding it within for quite awhile. She just couldn't help herself and she had a very good feeling that she would be back to normal in no time, as she had wanted to be before hand. However, when there was no one else around to express this craziness upon, then it became rather lonely and difficult to keep it up. That old self of hers had retreated into an armored shell, just waiting and willing for someone to come and crack it open. With these two returning, it would be happening soon, and Kastiel said he would make sure of it. ”I'm sure you will, Kastiel. If I don't beat you to it first!” She yipped happily, still teasing him. She loved to tease both of them, as within her nature.

Spirit turned her head with interest, ears pricked to pick up the sounds of the whimpering female in front of them. She frowned, wondering if she had scared the female badly, and felt as though she should do something about it. Steadily, the Tundra wolf walked over to the female, halting a few feet away as not to appear confrontational. Her voice was gentle and welcoming, ”Forgive me if I startled you, my friend. There is no need to be afraid, we won't hurt you. Are you in search of a home here?” Her gaze was soft, loving. There was nothing more that she wanted than to make sure the female was not scared away, especially if it would have been her fault. She accepted most, though was wary of them all at first, but this one seemed rather harmless. She was very small, too, and the Tundra wolf didn't mind one bit. She had to really wonder if she searched for a home here. ”I know I look a little rabid now and that's my own fault, but I don't harm anyone except those who hold intent of harming my packmates.”

As she said this, her eyes turned and landed upon a male who had given a low bark and just entered the clearing. She was taken aback a moment by his size, he was bigger than all of them, but only by what seemed to be two inches. She felt a growl rise in the back of her throat, already not liking the situation, but held it back. ”And who are you?”

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[Toiro]

Toiro smiled warmly at Spirit. It was so good to be back! Even though most of the pack had left, he was glad that he still had two loyal friends.

But there was so much to do! He was beginning to get a little flustered. He needed to get the borders properly marked again, check how the prey was in each area of the territory, drive any other predators out. Right now he had to make sure Spirit was okay and feeling appreciated, and hopefully persuade the strange female to join the pack, while making sure that none of the wolves present felt ignored.

And then another wolf entered the clearing. Toiro flicked his ears as the wolf announced his presence with a low bark. He stared at the larger wolf, slightly intimidated by the brute’s size. He didn't think he'd ever met a wolf so big in his entire life!
The stranger didn’t seem to be hostile though. In fact, he seemed quite… peaceful, if that was the right word for it. He didn’t look as though he was out to cause trouble, at least.
Toiro appreciated his respectful silence – this wolf knew how to act when approaching an alpha. An awful lot of loners strolled across claimed territory as if they owned the place, and although the big grey wolf didn’t usually have the heart to chase them away, he did find them very annoying.

But this time he would start afresh. He would not let his pack deteriorate again. He would keep a constant vigilance over the lands of Shyia and protect all of his members from harm. He wouldn’t let any more loners into the territory unless, of course, they expressed an interest in joining. Airila would be a better pack – the best pack on the continent!
But first he needed to deal with their current problems.

“Welcome, stranger, to the pack lands of Airila” he smiled calmly at the other wolf. “My name is Toiro, and this is my Beta, Kastiel, my Warrior, Spirit, and…” he trailed off, realising that he hadn’t yet asked the female’s name.

He looked towards her, dismayed when he saw her frightened posture. He hadn’t really noticed before, as distracted as he’d been with his own thoughts and with the new wolf who had appeared in the clearing.
Toiro looked closely at the quivering femme. Her eyes were squeezed shut and she was whimpering quietly. A pang of guilt shot through his heart. It must be the group setting that was scaring her.

“Are you okay?” he whispered gently, careful not to startle her. “If you’d like, you could head to the dens, and one of us could come and talk to you later?”

He could understand how she felt. He was sometimes shy too, but at least he knew most of the wolves here. It must be very intimidating, being with three other wolves who all knew each other (and a wolf who was so big that he was nearly twice the size of her in her cowering form). If Toiro and his friends attacked her, she would stand no chance.
Of course, they would never do that, but how would she know for certain? He didn’t know how to comfort her without frightening her even more. The only real way that she’d be able to relax completely in their presence was if she got to know them, and that would take time. His eyes begged her to give it a try.


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[seadragoness]

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[bg=000000][atrb=background,http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff153/Lumarinam/kastiel-background.png] Kastiel watched as yet another wolf appeared upon the horizon, curious by the commotion perhaps, as he barked once to announce his presence. For a moment Kastiel wondered if there terratory had become overrun with loners - he certinly hoped not! But after all, the borders hadn't exactly been very dominant lately. If there where any strangers wondering around he would have to politly instruct them to leave - this was claimed terratory. His attention returned the the skittish fae who had first answered their call. She seemed overwelemed by all this going on around her, she seemed very unacustomed gto being around other wolves, and to be suddenly overwelmed by them was too much for her. A look of concern crossed his expression, worried for this gentle fae. Spirit got to the other first however, letting her know that it was okay and explaining at least a little about what was going on. Having one around her already Kastiel had a feeling that even one more would be a crowd, not wanting to make matters worse for her he kept his distance and hoped the others had the sense and respect to do the same. he did not want to frighten this fae away. When the Alpha spoke to the other, his voice soft and gently offering for her to go to the dens and rest for a while, calm down, he was greatful - it was a good suggestion and one he himself had not thought of. "If you would like, I can show you the way. If you agree to that, I can stay near, or leave you be what ever you wish? He offered her kindly, after all he was the onle one obsalete enough here. He was sure that Torio would like to debreif Spirit, and that Spirit would like to hear the news of there journey. Also, Toiro would have to speak to the stranger that had politly demanded his attention. The big brute seemed respectful enough, and he trusted that if he proved decietful Spirit would be as capable as Kastiel himself in protecting there Alpha. That left only Kastiel to show this gentle wolf the dens and ensure she was okay. He looked to the other to see her answer.

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[Deleted]

It took a mere moment for the air to change around the wolves. Excitement replaced by intimidation, acceptance replaced by reluctance, light-heartedness by tension. Spirit had happily spoken to the smaller femme, open arms and open heart, eagerly offering her reassurance to her protection. But when she saw Castien, her mood changed an awful lot. He couldn't miss the sting in her words when she said, 'but I don't harm anyone except those who hold intent of harming my packmates.' Her eyes were set on him, there was no doubt where her words were directed and Cas read her loud and clear. Was he afraid of her? No, not in the least. But, did he respect her? Yes, in every way. Cas always gave respect to females, but that was not the only reason why Spirit had earned his respect. She was part of the pack he was trying to join, therefore she was his superior. But again, not the reason he respected her. The true reason for his respect for the fae was her undeniable courage and loyalty to her pack. Her words proved true, though Castien was clearly larger and stronger than Spirit, she would put herself on the line to protect them. And that was more than enough to earn Cas's respect. She would see his intentions were nothing but pure soon enough. He was not worried about her.

Then, the alpha spoke.

'Welcome, stranger, to the pack lands of Airila. My name is Toiro, and this is my Beta, Kastiel, my Warrior, Spirit, and…'

Airila was the pack's name, then. It was a very, light, a smooth name and though he had yet to speak it, Castien knew it would feel good to speak. Toiro was the alpha's name, the larger of the two males of the pack, Castien could have guessed. Though, the second male was named Kastiel, so close to Castien that her thought of changing his name, but decided against it. He could not lie to his --possibly-- new pack members. He was the beta, fitting, he could see the bond between the two males, the trust that must linger there. Castien gave a deep respectful nod in greeting to the males. He introduced Spirit to him as a warrior, also a very fitting position. And as far as he could tell, a very fitting name. And the second female.... Toiro seemed to be at a loss for a name. It seemed Castien's theory about her new membership proved correct. Though, he did not guess it was that new.

After the two males offered to show her to the dens, for she was obviously uncomfortable, then Castien spoke. "I am Castien," he shot a look at the beta, "But you may call me Cas if you wish. First, it is a pleasure to meet you all. I do not believe I have encountered a group of wolves like yourselves for a long while.I must say it is very... refreshing." He directed he attention to Toiro, then. "I wish to request admittance into your pack, Alpha Toiro. I think I can prove to be of good service to you and to Airila Pack." He did not raise his head, he did not plead desperately with is eyes, he would not appear weak, but at the same time he would not appear aggressive or disrespectful.

He couldn't stop the questions racing in his mind, what Toiro's verdict would be? How would Spirit react? She did not seem too fond of him. He couldn't stop himself from making plans on how to fight his way out, if necessary. He felt his heart beat fast with his anxiousness, his muscles ready to move, if they had to. He tried to focus entirely on the alpha, intent on his response.

[duchess]

If the one called Spirit had wanted to provide comfort then she should have decided to back off. Duchess instinctively took a step back at the other female's approach. Automatically her mind started to dissect everything the stranger said as well. "Friend" was not a term she would have picked to describe someone she'd just met and she did not like the "rabid" joke. The humans had given her a rabies shot when she was still within their care. From what she understood, the disease was unpleasant and she hoped to never encounter it.

What's worse is how quickly the black female's mood shifted to being on the offensive. Both the alpha and beta were present and yet the warrior felt compelled to pounce on the situation. Duchess could not see this scenario ending well. The stranger seemed to mean no harm and the alpha was acting diplomatically. So why had Spirit turned so aggressive? The mood swing left Duchess uncomfortable.

The offer to take her to the dens did nothing to ease her discomfort. She negatively shook her head first at Toiro and then at Kastiel, turning down their kind offers. A private conversation was not what she had been expecting and one she would not take. She had known upon answering the call that there was a likely possibility of others showing up. Now that they were all gathered, she wasn't going to let herself be restrained by her own insecurities.

She could do this! She kept repeating the mantra over and over in her head. She was fidgety though and her paws were beginning to trample down the ground beneath her. She was trying to find her courage, to pull it out from that place in her soul that it liked to stay buried in hidden. For a long time she simply stared at the ground, trembling slightly as she tried to will herself to go through with this.

And then the lone male and requested to join and she took his words as a sign of hope. If he could do it (and so easily, no less) then there was no reason she too could not state her intentions aloud. Lifting her head she forced the words out of her mouth with bravery she did not feel. Her voice was soft and losing strength with every word she spoke. "I-i-i wish... tojointoo." Final words rushed, she dropped her again and let her eyes drift closed; her cheeks felt hot and she was flustered. Why did this have to be so difficult? Her name was barely a whisper as she forced it from her mouth as well. "I'm Duchess."

[Deleted]

Her sudden change in mood had been rather uncalled for, considering that she had no reason to to be so offensive towards such a massive male. However, she had not been around others for so long and she was still uneasy around the wolves that she did not know. Kastiel and Torio were one thing. She knew them and she trusted them, as she always had, but these two new wolves were different for her. Strangers in general were not something she came to trust so easily. It was difficult enough to not want to chase the female away, but she saw the pure terror on her face and couldn't help but be nice. The male, though, was huge. Though he didn't come at them with an intimidating stance, with malice towards them, she felt extremely uneasy with him. She backed off from the female, feeling her fur rise slightly. Why did she feel scared? She didn't know, but she had to guess it was from the isolation she had suffered and how weak she felt.

Her reddish brown paws shuffled anxiously beneath her, and she'd suddenly gotten the urge to do something. Her heart thudded in her chest, at an unwelcome pace, and she moved to stand closer to her leaders. However, her position was not defensive or angry. It was more along the lines of cautious. She could tell that he meant no harm in that moment, but he was so big. What if he had an ego he couldn't control? What if he turned on them when they least expected it? She shook her head lightly. "I'm sure people were having those thoughts about me when I first came..." She muttered to herself, trying to find a way into getting around her discomfort with all of these wolves around her. She only felt safe beside her leaders and she did not take well to strangers in her current state. She had been isolated for so long...that seeing even her leaders had become a weird thing. She knew she wasn't one to act like this, but she couldn't help it.

She listened to the male speak, to him ask for admittance into the pack in order to serve it. She smiled and slowly, she laughed. She realized that she had been wrong in her own actions, but seeing him this way only made her own thoughts worth a laugh. "Forgive me for being so hostile, Castien... I've been rather isolated for quite some time. I'm not going to do well with strangers for a few weeks. You, in particular, worried me with your size. However, you'd make a fine addition into the pack...and a fine Warrior, perhaps?" She could only guess through his size that he would make a very formidable opponent and that even she could have trouble against him. However, she was smart enough to beat anything, but it didn't always work. In a militia speculation, he would make a very good addition to the fighting side of things. Everyone could always hunt, but it took specific wolves to fight and specific wolves to heal.

Her ears twitched and she looked back to the female as she said she wished to join too. A smile lit up her face and she couldn't help but be happy with the new members that were coming their way. "It's lovely to meet you, Duchess. I'm sure you'll find good friends and a good home here." That was all she could say to the female, for she did not want to startle her again. Duchess was small for a wolf, so she could understand somewhat of what it was to be afraid of those bigger than you. Bears were one thing she never wanted to get involved with, they could kill a wolf easily unless more than one fought against it. The small wolf must have been terrified of all of them, especially considering her size, but she did not wish for her to feel that way. Perhaps, later she could offer to show her around the territory or something along those lines. If they were to be her new packmates, then the least she could do was show hospitality until she trusted them as she did her leaders.

"It seems to be, Torio, that rebirth can come from devastation, as we see now."

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[Toiro]

Toiro nodded his head as the shy female declined his offer. He respected the strength it must have taken for her to make the decision to keep going. He knew that if he had been in her position a year ago, he would probably have leapt at the chance to get away.

When the large wolf spoke, Toiro turned his attention back towards him.
Castien, was it? He almost groaned, but didn’t want the other to take offense. It wasn’t his fault, after all. Kastiel and Castien were just very similar names – it was probably going to get a bit confusing at times!
Toiro wouldn’t really mind that though, and was sure that he’d get used to it.

He admired the way that the new brute was respectful and submissive without losing his strength or pride. That was a good quality to have in a pack member – nobody wanted to run a pack of hostile and rebellious wolves, but Toiro thought that running a pack of wolves who were all scared of him would be just as bad. Packs were supposed to be families, not dictatorships.

Toiro glanced at the small female in surprise as she tagged on her wish to join too. He was glad that she had managed to find the courage to speak; maybe she was in fact stronger than he’d originally thought. Although she appeared shy and weak-looking on the outside, her determination was what was important. His ears flicked forwards, and he had to concentrate to hear her whispered voice. Duchess… Duchess was a nice name. It suited her very well, in fact. It sounded very gentle, and regal.

A smile grew on the alpha’s face and he swished his tail from side to side a few times to express his happiness. “I am very pleased to welcome you two into the pack of Airila” He beamed at every wolf present in the little clearing, no longer thinking the depressing-nearing-suicidal thoughts he’d had upon returning to the land to find it virtually empty. “Your official ranks in the pack will be determined later, after I have had the chance to see your abilities”

Oh, how he loved new members. They always made him feel so… happy. They made him feel as though the future was going to be great. Yes, he thought to himself, the future of Airila was indeed going to be a good one. Toiro felt so honoured to be the leader of this pack. He loved every wolf who was a part of it, even Castien and Duchess, who had only just joined. He would make sure that no wolf under his care would ever come to harm.

His head turned at the lead warrior’s last remark, and another smile crept onto his face.
“Yes, Spirit. It seems it can”


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