Darkness of ash (Joining)

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A young Maned wolf limped silently over the plains. Monca had never seen anything like this place, it had short grass and a bog which Monca's feet kept sinking in. She was desperately tired and hungry, she had met no other animal on her trip up from her homelands in the south except a forlorn looking pronghorn who had a sore foot. Monca hated being alone and with no company, with her weak legs it took forever to travel long distances. Muttering to herself she examined her matted fur on her long spindly legs.

She had been born with it, her legs as weak as sticks and could so easily be broken. That's why she needed a pack, a pack to protect her, to learn from. But Maned wolves dont live in packs, and it's been a harsh winter, what makes you think they want another mouth to feed Her mind laughted at her, pushing itself forward. Monca could almost see another vision of herself in her mind, a proud, tall wolf with her hackles raised and her lips pulled back into a snarl. The opposite of Monca. Nobody wants you! She bark with laughter and it echoed around her head. Nobody's going to want a coward with deformed legs? A coward who sat there and watched her brother die! She snapped inside her head. Monca had to deal with this a lot, when she let her mind wonder. Taking a petal of a white poppy would of quieted her head down, but there was no poppy around here. So instead she tried to concentrate on something, anything.

A scent was whirled into Monca face, it was a sweet and bitter at the same time. The smell of death. Monca could not believe it as she came trotting over to a small carcass of a old pronghorn, it was starting to rot, meaning it was quite old, but Monca didn't care, she was ravines. Everything that Monca had been thinking was washed away with the smell of death, she leaped up onto the dead beast and sank her teeth into its ruff skin. Monca's teeth were not made for large prey with tough skin, and as she tried in vain to open the carcass, she forgot about everything around her.

So when a small herd of pronghorn came across her ontop of the carcass, their noses flared and the females with no horns pawed the ground nervously. Of course the pronghorn didn't know that Monca was no threat to them, they just saw her as another wolf. They were anxious at first but when a large male with pointed horns stepped out infront, the whole herd was behind him. Monca had hardly heard them running towards her but she had felt the ground shudder beneath her, but it was too late. When she turned her head to the sound, the pronghorn were already on her. Monca tried to turn and run but her weak legs made it impossible and plus, how could she out run the fastest animal in the world distance wise. A howl of pain escaped her lips as she felt the first horn dig into her flank. The pain was incredible, it sent waves of pain down her legs and up to her spine, causing her legs to buckle beneath her and she soon had a mouth full of mud. When Monca opened her eyes, a nostril was flaring in her face and as she looked past the angry face she saw a row of antlers waiting to gorge out her side.

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After a spell in Caurus, Róvanfaer decided it was time to start heading southward, back to the land he called home. However, the young male wasn’t quite sure he was completely ready to turn himself over to the Descai Alpha just yet. So, instead, Rovan wandered south from Caurus hugging the Kamari boarder. His intentions were to stick near the border, follow it to the mountains, skirt around the claimed lands, and eventually head west toward Acerbus. The dark, misty lands of Acerbus were calling to his lonely heart. The wolf made sure to set his pace so he would not come off as being too eager. What was waiting for him at Acerbus anyhow? Nothing. No shred of evidence remained of his family except those in the form of memories. Still it would bring him comfort to be back home again, even if he was alone. Maybe he would make new friends with the pack members of Descai. I wonder what they are like, he pondered.

Róvanfaer took a momentary pause in his journey to stop and stare back at his past time in Caurus. As his green eyes surveyed the land behind him, the only thought running through his mind was how strange some of the wolves of Anikira could be. Belial left quite the impression on the young wolf. With such a large body and such an interesting take on life, Rovan had been left with food for thought. He was certain, however, that his loyalties would never lie with the massive brute. The other figure that had stumbled upon the two male’s conversation had also given Rovan something to think about. As if on reflex, his body gave a slight heave when his memory played images of other young male throwing up. Until that point, Rovan had never known he was a sympathetic puker. From here on out I shall avoid any and all wolves blowing chunks

[/i], he thought making a mental note with a grimace.

The mixed colored wolf continued once more sticking close to the Kamari border. Every so often his eyes would glance to the land beyond wondering what secrets it held. If he was lucky, maybe he would catch a glimpse of one of Descai’s members. It was scary going into a situation where he knew nothing except the name of the pack. The black male had never even given his name! Róvanfaer sighed heavily dropping his head. What nonsense was running through his head. Who ever said the Alpha would accept his proposal anyhow? Why would any sane Alpha let Rovan, a potentially threatening wolf, waltz into his pack and let them stay while the wolf decided on whether or not they wanted to stay.

Why did Rovan have to be so fickle, or rather, why did life have to be so hard? Frowning, the wolf pressed on subduing the depressing thoughts rummaging through his mind. A pained howl thundered across the plains causing Rovan to come up short, ears forward on alert. The sound was coming from inside Kamari. Róvanfaer suddenly found himself torn between helping and walking away. If it was taking place on Kamari, which was Descai territory by the scent of the markers, then he had no business there. However, his instincts to protect were kicking into high gear. How could he simply walk away from someone who might be in serious trouble?

Without a second thought, the wolf leapt into action across the boundary was well on his way in to Kamari. Racing through the low grassy plains fast, Rovan found himself witnessing what appeared to be a herd of some deer like creature attacking some other figure. What the?![/color]the male questioned in surprise. This was not the scene he thought he would find. Maybe some other wolf attacking another, but not some deer attacking a wolf! The doubt in his mind passed as the physical demeanor of Róvanfaer changed in that instant as he charged toward the herd of pronghorns with no ounce of fear. What better way was there to break up monotony than a good ol’ fight? No longer did the wolf’s head hang low or sadness show in his vibrant green optics. Now they were filled with vigilance for the need to hunt, to protect. Snarling viciously, the wolf barreled into the pronghorn standing in front of the large red colored wolf. The two toppled over each other until Rovan came out on top staring down into the deer like creature’s face.

The herd was coming forward to scare off the female, but Rovan simply leaped in front of them snapping his jaws sending them prancing backward with uncertainty. The pronghorns didn’t mind dealing with one lone wolf, but could they handle two? One horned creature came too close causing Róvanfaer to lash out, his hackles bristling as a snarl ripped through his throat. The two opposing beasts were at a standstill now. Neither wanted to go in for a full on fight, but neither were willing to surrender. The leader soon joined his fellow pronghorns in the staring match. Moments ticked by in which neither side moved other than to assert their dominance over the situation.

(I didn’t want to take full control of the pronghorns, so I left it open ended for you. ^-^ Feel free to have them attack or leave or what have you. Hope you don’t mind me jumping in, either.)[/blockquote][/blockquote]

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A huge shudder went through Monca, she could not even save her own butt from a herd of prancing pronghorn, how much weaker can you get? She through she was a goner when the large male pronghorn had rose his hooves and was about to bring it down on her head, then she had scent a wolf, I bet he's come to watch the hunters become the hunted Her mind sneered, she was never going to shut up was she?

Monca closed her eyes just as the large wolf leaped at the male pronghorn, she felt the gush of wind as the pronghorn was knocked over. Monca dared a look as she saw this large mix colored wolf ontop of the pronghorn, but this had left Monca open to the rest of the herd and she could feel their anger, she struggled to stand as the herd pawed the ground and tossed their heads. When suddenly the brute was back again, standing infrount of her. Why was he protecting her? She was nobody to him and nobody to anyone, why?

The herd pawed the ground nervously , they were all having second thoughts and they had seen how easly their leader had been pinned down, so they stopped listening to their heads and went with what's natural to them, fleeing away from danger, and with that they all turned tail and prance away. Showing how skilled they are at running and how strong they are, this was the dance of the prey, showing how strong they were and hoping the hunter would not pick a them. Monca loved to watch prey from a distance, but this had been way too close for her comfort and she felt like she was going to throw up. But she help it in, so she didn't look even more like a whimp infrount of this fighting wolf.

When the deer were only specks in the land beyond, Monca stared up at the brute. She had never been this close to another wolf that was not her family, and now that her family was gone, maybe this is what she needs to get use to. Ever since her brother had died she had been so scared of other wolves, not wanting anything to do with them. But now she knew the kinder side of a wolf, the one that will do anything to protect fellow pack members. Thank you so much, kind wolf. I owe you my life. Monca felt very humiliated as she struggled to stand and when she finally did get to her weak feet she felt like she was towering over the wolf and she bowed low, keeping her eyes on the ground infrount of this wolf. Why did you come and save my worthless butt? She asked, a little bit of sadness came into her tone. She knew everything was true, she hated looking like a idiot, an idiot who could not scare off some thin, agile deer. Well they did have horns and when they saw the carcass they were angry. Her mind said in defence. Monca was a little shaken up by the event, her legs trembled with shock and adrenaline was still flowing through her vain from the near death experience and her flank was bleeding badly from the horn attack.

This wolf didn't look like he lived in a pack, his pelt was a little matted and his body was not that well fed. Monca looked back over at the dead carcass of the pronghorn. You may have it. My token of appreciation. At least she had something that she could pay him back with, she hoped he was hungry. Monca mind raced Now what? Is he going to attack me? Monca had let her mind in and was suddenly scared. Why would he do that? He jst saved you, unless it was only for the carcass. She would never be able to defend herself ageist any wolf, she would never have the heart to kill any wolf, dying or weak. And plus, her jaw would never be able to fit around a wolf neck. Monca nearly chuckled out loud but held it in, this wolf may have saved her live, but it didn't mean she trusted him.

Monca turned her attention to herself, looking over her shoulders at the angry, red wound on her flank. Monca knew she was skilled in herbs but she was unsure about her in the east. There are a lot of unusual herbs here that aren't in the south. Turning on her heels she walks away, scanning the ground for anything that might be useful to heal the wound. She limps over to a greener patch that looks like a underground spring was coming up from beneath, giving much more life than the duller green around it. A rare smile came across Monca face despite the pain, a clump of Burdock lay in the center of the bog, thriving in the wet conditions.

OOC: Thank you for coming and I dont mind that you came, I was a little bored waiting for a reply. And you dont mind that my writing is a little short? I'm not too good at writing but I love rping XD

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It didn’t take long for the herd of pronghorns to decide that two wolves were one too many. Smirking, Róvanfaer watched as the beasts pranced away with agility and grace. It slightly disappointed him that they decided not to stand their ground and fight, however. He was itching for another one. He wasn’t looking for a fight to the death, but a mock battle wouldn’t hurt. If anything, it would allow the wolf to stretch out unused muscles. At last the deer creatures were mostly out of sight, small black dots against the low lying grassland. Róvanfaer gave a triumphant snort turning around to face the wolf he had saved. His brow rose questioningly, but the young male spoke no question. Who was he to judge what someone was capable or not capable of doing? He knew not of their back story. It was possible this red wolf before him was crippled.

When the Maned wolf told Rovan thanks for saving her, the questioned why he had done so, the wolf peered at the ground digging lightly in the dirt. “Think nothing of it,” he replied. Short, sweet, and simple. Róvanfaer gave a curt nod of his head taking in the other’s appearance. “I mean no offense, but what kind of wolf are you? I do not believe I have ever seen one such as yourself.” Green eyes scanned her body from tip of nose to tip of tail. With his newest growth spurt, Rovan was soon closing in the gap between their heights. It would appear that, like his father, Rovan would also continue to grow even past the age of two. “My apologies miss. To answer your question, you were in trouble – so I helped.” Again, his reply was simple.

The female offered him the pronghorn carcass as a thank you. Róvanfaer shook his head, “No token necessary, miss.” Although he was hungry, Rovan felt weird taking something in return for helping her out. That was not how he was taught. Help others in need, take nothing in return. Suddenly, there was a different air about the wolf as she fretted over whether or not Rovan would attack her, no doubt. To ease her mind the male wolf backed a couple of steps away before turning to gaze over the distance. “We shouldn’t be here. This is Descai territory. Unless…,” the brute spun around excitement showing clearly in his eyes, “You are a member of Descai? Are you?” he asked eagerly with a slight wag of is tail.

“Oh bother, my apologies again, miss. Where are my manners? Are you alright? That appears to be a nasty wound…” At that moment the she wolf stood to her paws and walked a short distance away clearly looking for something. Perhaps she knew which herb to use for her wound. Again, Rovanfaer turned to peer off into the distance. An unsettling feeling sat hard in his gut. I shouldn’t be here

[/color], he repeated to himself shuffling his weight from one paw to the other. This was not how he wanted to meet the Descai Alpha. He had already trespassed once. The black male was less likely to be so forgiving again. Swallowing hard, the young brute eyed the boarder to Kamari off in the near distance. How soon could he cross those scent lines and be in the clear once more?[/blockquote][/blockquote]

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Monca was troubled by his answer, Just because she needed help? She had never met a wolf that would just come and help. This left a smile on Monca face, it was nice to know that in the outside word beyond the plains of the south, their were nice wolves. Monca nearly laughed out when the wolf had asked her what she was, Are their no Maned wolves in the east? Or have I traveled too far and I'm in the north? Oh dear She smiled to hope she was reassuring the wolf she was not some fox on stilts. I am a Maned wolf, and my name is Monca, Wise one. Monca nearly felt like crying, she had not told anyone her name on her traveles and had not been called Wise one since her brother died, but it felt right to say it. Unless these wolves down have second names which are used in politeness to a stranger. Monca pawed the ground nervously. What is yours and what type of wolf are you? Monca felt she could no longer call this wolf something she made up.

She turned to the pronghorn carcass, I can not eat it, unless you want to leave It for some scavengers? Monca felt awful using this wolf to open the carcass, she could not so why should she leave it for some coyote? Monca was tired, all the adrenaline was now gone from her vain but she could not rest still knowing this wolf friend or foe. Bit when he scent her uneasiness he had taken a step back, Monca was relived. I am sorry, but I do not live in a pack, we Maned wolves live alone, and dont you live in a pack? And I was wondering if you could take me to them? This wolf looked troubled to be here, was this in the pack territory? Why hadn't she smelt it? The thing that was worrying her the most is that he wants to be out of here, did that mean the pack near here is very territorial? Very cruel?

Monca stared at the leafy plant in the middle of the bog, she knew she might sink in if she stepped over it, but maybe not, she decided to give it a go. Slowly she placed one paw on the wet ground, then she moved the next. But when she put weigh on her first, it sank in all the way up to her chest. Monca nearly yelled in surprise, she never knew it would be as deep as her legs, which to her standards was long. She pulled herself out and looked over at the other wolf and gave him a simple smile. Now she looks even more like a idiot, with one leg black with mud.

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The smile the wolf wore confused Rovan. Why had she smiled at his reply? Tilting his head, he averted his eyes shuffling at the dirt once more. When she answered the question of what kind of wolf she was, the brute sniffed and looked her over again. “Aah,” he breathed. “Interesting.” Rovan sat back on his haunches taking this in. Where had these wolves come from? Why had he never seen one before? So many questions raced through his head. Shaking them away, he returned to a standing position pacing a little. The Maned gave her name and title. Róvanfaer blinked tilting his head the opposite way this time, then nodded. “That is a nice name. My name is Róvanfaer. I don’t really have a title… My mother was a Tundra and my father a Mackenzie Valley, so I am a cross between them. Oddly enough, my mother was white and my father black. I ended up somewhere in the middle.”

Róvanfaer gave a small smile and a chuckle before letting Monca speak again. Again, Rovan shook his head. “No thank you. It would not bode us well to feed on the lands of Descai.” Swallowing the wolf shook out his coat. Stray hairs floated off on the air current. When Monca said she did not live within a pack, Rovan’s heart sank then raced. “We must leave then,” he nodded affirmatively. They shouldn’t dwell in Descai lands any longer. Should the Alpha find his scent before Rovan got a chance to talk to him, the things the wolf had planned out would go severely awry. “I used to be in a pack, but I left. Now I am searching for a new pack; this one whose territory we are currently on to be precise.”

The multi-colored wolf paced again his eyes searching the ground for an answer it would not find. At this point, he might as well call the Alpha now and speak with him. Why leave the territory, walk all the way to Acerbus, and then ask to speak with the black wolf. It was happening all too fast. Róvanfaer was not ready to tie himself down to a pack. Or would he be doing that? Wasn’t the whole point of his plan to ask the Alpha to spend some time with the pack to see if he liked it, then leave if he so wished? Still, the brute might not like it if Rovan kept asking to go prancing here and there all over the Descai borders. He would be pushing his luck. Giving a light growl, Róvanfaer sat on the ground his head slumping between his shoulders.

At this point Monca was heading toward a plant. Maybe she had knowledge of them and their many uses? Rovanfaer watched with little interest until she sank into the mud up to her chest. He let out a laugh before cutting it short and givng the female a sheepish look. “My apologies, Monca, that was rude.” The fact remained that it was funny. “To see the Alpha, you need to howl for them. Ugh, they are going to wonder why we are on their land. To be safe, let us head to the border and wait there. They will probably question us on why we were on their land without permission.” Róvanfaer grimaced and began heading toward the border until he stood several feet passed it on free land. “Ready?” he asked Monca looking over to her before gazing out over the land of Kamari. This isn’t where he wanted to do this. He wanted to be in Acerbus.

Róvanfaer dipped his head momentarily before throwing it back releasing a powerful howl asking to see the Descai Alpha. Here goes nothing…

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Monca loved the sound of another wolf voice, after so long alone. Why did this wolf find it interesting, didn't wolves have titles here? Monca laughed. Rovanfaer is a nice name too She mimicked his voice, how could a name be nice? It was simply what you are called and what you answer to. What are the wolves you are naming? And I can see you are somewhat in the middle. Monca was finding it difficult to stay standing, her legs were weak from the fall and the wound was throbbing like a head ache. Also she hated being taller than Rovan, it was a sign of disrespect to tower over another wolf, so she lowered herself a little, it hurt to stay in this position, but it was respectful.

Monca found it difficult to just leave the carcass for some other animal to eat and she was still dearly hungry, but pushing that aside she was happy to have some company, she felt she now trusted Rovan, he wanted to join the pack here and she did too. Monca was quite relived about this, she didn't want to face a alpha on her own, so it was nice to know that maybe he could do all the talking and that might mean that they have a better chance of getting in, and also she could be of some assistance to him, if they dont want another warrior but a gather, then maybe Monca could bribe them into having to take them both or neither. This brought some warmth in Monca heart. She had been worrying about joining and not making any friends and even worst being bullyed about her weak bones, but if she had Rovan at her side, who would dare judge her? Sickness filled her gut, again with using him? Just first see if I get in.

Mabye she could reach the plant if she just jumped in, Monca thought she would feel humiliated if Rovan laughted at her, but instead it brought a smile to her face and made her laugh too, While he talked on about the alpha and how they needed to howl. She was getting ready to jump, taking a few steps back she run as fast as her weak legs would carry her and leaped at the Burdock in the middle of the mud. she landed with a splat that sent mud flying in all directions, Monca was chest deep in the mud, but she was close enough grab the herb. Monca looked around her and realised she was stuck, she tried to move one foot to turn around but it just sank deeper, A little help please Monca laughed

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Before Rovan trotted off to the boarder, the wolf watched Monca eye the plant in the boggy area. She wasn’t really thinking of jumping in after it was she? Did she really need it that badly? Róvanfaer watched with interested eyes as the Maned wolf took several steps back, raced forward, then leaped into the mud. She sunk down instantly the watered dirt unable to hold her form. The wolf bit back a laugh. It was uncharacteristic of him to laugh so many times in a row. At Monca’s words, Rovan put on a sly smirk, “I think I’ll leave you. The mud suits you. You can be a mud monster now, like you’ve always dreamed of being.” This time Róvanfaer let loose a laugh.

Snickering to himself, the wolf padded closer to the edge of the bog careful not to get himself stuck. It wouldn’t do the pair any good for him to get stuck, too! Picking his way carefully, the wolf took several paw steps into the thick bog testing his limits. Three paw strides in was too deep. Róvanfaer eyed Monca with pensive green eyes. How were they going to do this? “My dear, I believe you may have to stay in there for the rest of your life.” The smirk returned. It was unlike Rovan to act this way. He was not the joking type, especially toward someone he had just met. “Hmmmm,” he hummed to himself still mulling over the situation.

Monca seemed just out of reach. Giving a light sigh, the wolf sniffed. “Well… here goes nothing,”

[/color] he said stepping two paw lengths further into the bog. By now he was up to his own chest. Growling, Rovan reached out for Monca’s nap his jaws snapping around air. She was too far out. He cautiously took another step forward. The mud was at his neck now. His toes could barely fill the bottom of the bog. This was so different than swimming. “We’re going to need a good bath after this… we’re in no shape to see an Alpha.” What a terrible first impression they would make. Rovan reached out with his jaws again. Between the two of their movements, Rovan was finally able to grasp her neck. Using his powerful muscles, the brute pushed against the ground dragging the two closer to the sturdy ground.

It took a lot of effort, but he eventually managed to pull Monca out of the bog. “Well that was an adventure.” Shaking out his coat, Rovan looked down at his fur in dismay. He looked like crap. Sighing heavily, the wolf sniffed again and nodded toward the boarder. “Off we go,” he murmured heading toward the border to wait for the Alpha. Once he made it, he howled. “Now we wait. In the meantime,” he said trailing off. Róvanfaer began to clean his fur trying to bring back some of its former glory. Of course, it would be near impossible since there wasn’t a nearby river to help clean off all the mud. Still, he would have to do his best.[/blockquote][/blockquote]

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Monca enjoyed his laugh, it made her feel better, not worst. Monca was not the joking type either but this was something she laughed at. It was difficult to talk because of the Burdock in her mouth Come and help Mud monster, Then! She barked with laughter. It was nice to laugh after so much sadness in her life. The only thing I'm dreaming of is that you will be a mud monster too! Monca struggled to get closer to the edge which Rovan was on, but the mud was too thick and her legs refused to move. Monca looked up with pleading eyes. Please! She begged, a huge grin on her face. Why are you being playful with this wolf, you've only just met him! What happened to the sad wolf? Monca could see the wolf inside her head, she was confused, her tail between her legs, ears flatten on to her skull. Monca had swooped her mind from scared, shy wolf to the active, friendly, fun wolf that has been lying dormant in her mind, always clawing to get out, and this frightened Monca to think that one wolf would make her change so quickly.

Something seemed to change in Monca when Rovan said 'My dear' that's what Monca mum had called her a lot. Sadness welled up inside her and the playful side of her was gone. And when he too was chest deep in the mud Monca didn't laugh out, she just feel silent. When Monca felt the brute teeth catch her neck she let out a quite whine, but she pushed herself as much as she could to help Rovan pull them both out. When she felt hard ground beneath her feet she flopped down on the ground, her side heaving up and down. She catched her breath then got to her feet, laying the burdock on her now dirty wound. The plant slowly released oils that encourage blood cloting, the wound slowly stoped bleeding. Thank you... She said quietly, slowly following him out of the territory. The wondering had now clotted and was starting to heal well. Monca was quite happy that she had listened to her mum and bothered to learn her ways with herbs, it might have just saved her life. She wondered if Rovan knew anything about herbs. She looked up at his face, it was quite a handsome face it you took away the scars, which just made him look more like a warrior or hunter, not the type that would take time to be kind.

Sitting quietly she plucked up the courage to ask. What is your past? she was curious, the scars on Rovan face was clearly visible and had brought a lot of questions in Monca mind. Sorry... You dont have to answer that... I was just curious... And curious kills, and that is what had happened to her brother, the flashes of the past shot into Monca eyes, making her looking like she's looking into space. The blood, his dying words, the sour taste left over in her mouth as life slipped from his broken body, the mocking laughter of the wolf that had done this to Roylo. Monca stills remembers what her mother's face looked like when she had seen her sons body, it was like life had left her eyes. Monca snapped out of it and looked up at Rovan green eyes.

Monca felt a shiver go through her body as the light started to fail, her head turned to the west just to see the last of the sun set on the horizon. The cold is fast, it creeped into Monca thin pelt that is designed for warmer weather.

[Vorilye]

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[atrb=background,http://i156.photobucket.com/albums/t26/corpes3/vorilyemid2.png] A howl that sounded remarkably familiar echoed across Kamari, and Vorilye had to be pried away from his pups and his pack in order to answer it. Surely there would have been someone else who could handle it, but he preferred to take care of these matters himself. It was simply easier for him to take the weight on his own shoulders rather than delegate it just to watch others fail. After all, this was his empire, and no one could cause it to fall but him. Trotting across the stretch between Acerbus and Kamari, the male sought the source of the howl, interested to see just who had decided to summon him and what their business was in Kamari. Surprisingly, Vorilye found himself trotting up to a lanky maned wolf, similar to Ajax - perhaps that was a match made in the heavens, though the dark shaman seemed to prefer the ways Sarin embraced - and his old friend Rovan. Of course, Vorilye used the term friend very loosely, as the last time he had spotted the young male, Rovan had not only been trespassing on Descai's territory, but he had obviously had no intent to join the pack. So what he was doing back here so soon, the male could not figure out. "Rovan, I see that time has treated you well. To what do I owe this visit?" he inquired sharply of the male before his gaze fell onto the scrawny almost non-wolf. Vorilye had never had a particular like of maned wolves, but they were useful to him in some ways. This one better have useful skills, or she would not be welcomed for long in the shadow of the great Descai pack. Maybe this would end up being a test subject for Ajax to practice his dark works upon. Who knew, only time could tell. "I hope this is not merely another trip to frolick through my pack lands, boy. Kamari, too, is owned by Descai. Even though you found your way to the alternate territory of the pack, it is ruled by me nonetheless," he directed crisply, watching the male for any signs of deception of tomfoolery. Just because he had met Rovan before did not mean that Vorilye necessarily trusted him. Vor tended to have terrible luck with other males, as they simply were not trustworthy unless they were of his own kin, and even those wolves could be a little shady sometimes. After all, with what had happened with his boys, it was no wonder that he was edgy. Anyone who had an assassination attempt against them, particularly by their own blood, would be as jumpy and uncomfortable as the black and gold alpha. Count | 452 words Muse | So-so. Tags | Monca, Róvanfaer Notes | Not my best work.

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Róvanfaer had called for the Alpha. Soon he had slipped into a state of pacing as his paws carried him from left to right along the pack’s border. At one point, the wolf stopped to glance at Monca’s flank where she placed the plant over her wound. All that trouble for a little plant. At least Monca’s wound wouldn’t become infected, or so he assumed. Róvanfaer had very little knowledge of plants and their medicinal purposes. After that the brute went back to pacing. His eyes were filled with worry. What of the Alpha decided to turn him away? Where would he go? He’d be homeless again. A wandering, lost soul. Róvanfaer’s jaw clenched together tightly. So lost in thought was he that the wolf almost missed Monca’s question. Seconds after she asked, Rovan stopped suddenly blinking at the maned wolf in surprise. Rovan had almost forgotten she was there. The question she asked, however, only caused Róvanfaer to clam up. Why should he tell her his past? They had only just met. Taking in a large breath, the brute sat just at the edge of the border and then released his breath in a heavy sigh. “I was born on Anikira, in the land of Acerbus. My father was the Alpha of that land. When he left, so did I. However, I have returned to find the Alpha of Descai the new owner of Acerbus. I’m hoping to join… I…” Rovan’s muzzle twisted with complicated emotions, “I miss my home.” Growling at himself, the wolf turned away from Monca refusing to look at her. He wished to deal with his emotions alone. Showing emotion to others was weakness. The crunch of dry grass alerted the two loners to another wolf’s presence. Róvanfaer’s ears shot forward with his eyes gazing eagerly over the land. There in the distance approached a large, black wolf. His golden features illuminated in the sun’s light. With uncertainty, Róvanfaer stood to his paws keeping his posture and tail lower in a very, very small sign of submissiveness. “That’s him, the Descai Alpha,” he whispered to Monca keeping his eyes on the approaching male. Vorilye spoke to him first greeting him friendly enough with the hint of an edge in his voice. Róvanfaer’s ears twitched with insecurity. His previous confidence had deserted him. Alone, he relied only upon himself and could hold himself responsible. With others, he had different responsibilities and new challenges to oversee. After months on the other island, Rovan had been conditioned to be wary of Alphas. They were always the attack first, ask questions later type. Vorilye had been kind enough to let Rovan enter and pass without incident last time. Vorilye went on with a small lecture to which Rovan sniffed allowing his nose to twitch. “I could smell your mark along the borders, sir,” he replied in a flat tone. Was he making a huge mistake? Róvanfaer’s green eyes closed and opened slowly as he swung his head toward Monca, “I was on my way to Acerbus, to howl for you, when I ran into Monca. She is looking to join your pack. I…” Rovan trailed off momentarily lowering his head with respect, “Came seeking the same.” The male shifted his weight from paw to paw. “I have a proposition for you, however. I am tired of wandering from loner land to loner land. If I may, sir, I would like to join Descai as a test run. I would like to get to know you and your members to see if this is where I truly belong. That being said, you no doubt have questions about my loyalties. I promise you here and now sir, that I would give you all I have while living on your lands. I would remain loyal to you and your members.” Proudly, Róvanfaer stood tall, “I do not go back on my word. Will you allow me to prove myself?” He asked gave a curt nod to further prove his point. Now the dice were in Vorilye’s hands. Just because Rovan said some seemingly convincing words, that didn’t mean he would still be accepted into Descai. That only meant he could say a couple of nice things to lure others to his cause. It was up to Vorilye to decipher Rovan’s words, to see their meaning and their truth. Swallowing, the wolf glanced over to Monca to see how she was doing in this odd situation. What mess was he getting himself into? Don’t desert me confidence…

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Monca slumped down to the ground like a drunk griffafe, finding it difficult to get into a comfortable position. She was finding it difficult to keep her eyes on Rovan, his pacing was making her dizzy and it worried her to see his eyes full of worry. Did that mean the alpha we were soon going to meet was not very nice? When ever have alphas been called nice anyway? But still his constant pacing and worried green eyes scared her.
She watched him for a little, he must know nothing about herbs since he didn't know why she had gone to so much trouble to get it. Monca turned her eyes to the now quite wound, it had stoped bleeding and now the wound had started to scab. That's going to leave a scar She turned to the many scars on Rovan face and wondered.

Monca listened carefully to Rovanfaer. She wanted to know everything about him if she was to stay with him, also she wanted to be his friend so that she wouldn't be alone when this alpha he talks about comes. She could tell he was annoyed at telling her everything, and it surprised her that he had been here before, well it was no doubt he knew where he was going, unlike her who was just wondering with the wind. Monca ears twitched, she could hear the loud crunching of the alphas paws against the frosting ground, it was same as trying to hear for a mouse in the long grass of the plains. She needed no introduction to know he was the alpha, no other rank in a wolf pack would walk with such sound and no hesitation that only ment he wanted to be heard. Monca struggled to her feet, they were stiff and painful, but she managed alone with some difficulty. She didn't want to look too weak that she couldn't look after herself infrount of the wolf who could chose her future.

When he came she was glad that he was taller than her, she was tired of having to act like they hadn't noticed she was very tall, even for a Maned wolf. As he approached she lowered herself below Rovanfaer, she didn't want to seem overpowering to Rovan. Her tail tucked between her legs, her ears pressed against her skull, her long neck lowered and her eyes fixed on the ground before the black alpha. She know she needed to show submission to this wolf, she didn't know him like Rovan did. She scented him staring at her as his large lumbering body came close. Did he not like Maned wolves? Did he not want two more mouth's to feed? Did they have no need for a wolf like her who has no good in hunting or fighting She knew she needed to show him she could look after herself even though she was not much good at anything else but herbs. So she raised herself a little so she was the same height as Rovan. Monca gave a quite sigh of relief when Rovan spoke for her, she didn't trust her mouth to say what her mind was telling it and she worried she might say the wrong thing. Her mum's words echoed in her head If you want to join a pack and stay in it, always remember this. Speak when you are spoken to, do when you are told to do so, love when you are told to love to. She remembered it and she knew that was the best chance she had of not making a foul of herself. Suddenly Monca remembered she was covered in mud from head to toe, well at least more of a foul I already am.

Monca dared look look up at this large black and gold alpha when Rovanfaer has finished talking and she gasped at when she saw his eyes. They seemed to have no warmth, not mercy, eyes that said they had seen death. This was the type of wolf Monca never wanted to meet, a wolf like the one who had killed her brother. Monca's eyes hardened and cased her eyes back at the ground, she knew now that this was a big mistake but it would be a bigger one to walk away now.

[Vorilye]

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[atrb=background,http://i156.photobucket.com/albums/t26/corpes3/vorilyemid2.png] Listening to Róvanfaer's story, Vorilye could not help but smirk at his admission that loner life was not suiting him well. It did not surprise the alpha, of course, but he would not directly insult the young male's decision to wander aimlessly. After all, he had done much of the same at Rovan's age, particularly when he did not know what he wanteded and was intending to steer clear of Ithilwen. Now that he was happy with his home, he was secretly delighted to see that there were others who wanted to share Acerbus with him; he was content with that so long as they did not feel the need to upstage him in his own pack. Rovan did not overly concern Vorilye, mostly because he reminded him of his own son. Perhaps the mixed male could be somewhat of a friend to Ryker, as it seemed that his son was spending far too much time with the older, terse members of the pack, and he believed somewhat that Róvanfaer could help bring Ryker down to earth a little more. There was so much that his son needed to clear up, particularly that he needed to let go of his past like Vorilye was trying to do for himself. He had made leaps and bounds in the right direction, but there was still quite a while to go. "You may join my pack, Róvanfaer. However, I will hold you to that loyalty. Should you turn your back on my pack, I will only let you walk away once. Should you return, you would be deemed an enemy of Descai," he instructed tersely, hoping that the message was loud and clear to the male. He was content to allow the younger male to remain for now, but stepping out of line was not going to be tolerated. The new personality of Vorilye was more lenient about who he planned to accept in the pack, but he was not stepping back from his high standards for Descai. He only planned to involve some more males because they were far too weak to defend themselves in a large gaggle of females. With Shayde and his three offspring tucked away in the dens, he wanted to ensure the best possible defense of them. Vorilye knew that he had at least one or two enemies wandering the continent. Anyone who survived from Haishin would likely hold a grudge against him. If Amyntas ever manned up, he could likely be a formidable enemy. It was all a matter of judgment. "Monca, is it?" he addressed the female sharply, his eyes falling on the now-shy appearing female. Vorilye was not foreign to his presence intimidating others, but he certainly had not directed any anger her way that should have provoked such a reaction. Maybe she was going to be too weak-hearted for Descai. "What skills do you have that would be beneficial to my pack?" he inquired. If he was going to take in another female, then it would be best to know that she was capable of helping the pack out in some way. He did not want any more useless wolves milling around his territory. They either needed to step up and be helpful or get out of his territory. Count | 553 words Muse | Alright. Tags | Monca, Róvanfaer Notes | This is getting a little bit better but I'm really out of my groove with him in this thread. I don't know what it is.

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The moments ticked by as Vorilye seemed to consider Róvanfaer’s offer. Now that he had spoken the idea aloud, Rovan wondered what he was thinking when he came up with the idea! It was such a silly thing to ask of an Alpha. What Alpha would want some vagabond leeching off of his good graces? Róvanfaer suppressed the want to sigh. It was too late now. The balance of Rovan’s future hung on the black Alpha’s decision. Finally, the verdict was given. Vorilye would allow him to stay after all. Mentally, Rovan gave a great sigh of relief before nodding deeply. “You have my word, sir.” Rovan would not break his word, either. He was a loyal brute who would follow orders given. Well, so long as they did not completely go against his morals. If Vor decided to have Rovan kill someone, things could get a little hairy. Hopefully things wouldn’t come to that. Truthfully, Róvanfaer had no intentions of double crossing the Descai members. Not only was it the only way he would be close to home, but it would also be severely unwise to have a pack with a warrant out for his head. Now that he was accepted into the pack, it was time to focus on meeting the other members. With green eyes, Rovan couldn’t help but look up at the black male with a curious expression. In all this time he had yet to be formally introduced to the Alpha. Vorilye knew his name, but Rovan did not know his. It was an interesting situation to be placed in. Although, the younger male had no problems with referring to the elder male as “sir” as it was formal enough for him. The attention turned from Rovan onto Monca who had become shy and allowed Rovan to act as her mouth piece. This time, however, the brute remained silent as the Alpha of Descai had spoken to her directly. Since the two wolves had just met, Rovan could answer Vorilye’s question. At least Monca appeared to have some knowledge of herbs, far more than what Rovan would know. Róvanfaer was a fighter not a gatherer. Blinking, Róvanfaer peered past Vorilye and into the lands of Kamari, the neighboring lands of Acerbus. He had looked into the border as a pup, but he had never been into this land before. How young and naive he had been as a pup. Rovan almost felt ashamed at how little he knew of this world and its workings. At least he knew enough to get by. That was all that mattered. World knowledge would come with age, no doubt. Again his eyes focused in on Vorilye. Perhaps the Alpha and other members of Descai could fill Rovan’s mind with wisdom. All in good time.

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Monca listened to the way the alpha spoke to Rovan, how if he left he would be deemed a enemy. What if she was deemed a enemy, what if the pack was no good for her? Almost chuckling when she heard Rovanfaer say "you have my word." He almost sounded like a solider saluting a general, born to serve. She hated the thought that she served the gods of the wolves, she was of no servant to anyone. But she guessed she should just copy what Rovan said, she had no experiences with other wolves and how to join a pack, and it felt so unnatural to the Maned wolf. She knew back from where her mum used to live, off this island, Maned wolves lived solitary lives since there was not enough food to go round.

As the alphas eyes settled on Monca, she shuddered. She hated being stared at, it was a sign of disrespect. But now she had to reply, Rovanfaer couldn't answer her now. Swallowing hard she tried to keep her voice even. Yes, it is Monca. How I would benefit your pack is that's have skill with herbs and healing, Large one Monca said with slight discomfort. She didn't know his name so she called him what first came into her head, she didn't know how he would take it, as a compliment or as a joke. Shuffling slightly she tried to stay standing, this wolf could chose to spare her or waste her, he could chose to chase her out or let her in. What if they have both a gather and a shaman? Worried thoughts filled her head and it was even more difficult to concentrate.

Moving a little more to Rovan gave her a little strength to keep going, he had done it, he had got into the pack, so let's hope she will too. Waiting for the wolf response was agonising, when she relived she needed to show herself off like she was a peacock, spreading all her feather into view, all that was good about her. I can hunt for myself and I wouldn't be no trouble to anyone, I can fight Monca nearly choked when she said that, it was a white lie, she could fight but not anything stronger than herself, which ment the air. Monca almost chuckled when she thought of herself fighting air, she was useless. Keeping her eyes down to make sure they dont betray her, she kept her body language calm and relaxed, which was the opposite of her.

Monca stood tall as she could and tried to focus on the ground before her, she guessed Rovan knew she had said something wrong, but she couldn't take it back now. I give you my full loyalty She said in a quite voice If you have any her mind roared with laughter and it was difficult to quite it, she was a fool to think he would let her into the pack, why would he need her? She was just a bag of lying flesh.