The Arrival

[zephale]

The Grey wolf femme, named Zephale, lifted one elegant grey paw and drew in a deep breath through her nostrils before she pressed it on the unknown turf; she was now on someone’s territory and would be considered a threat until proven otherwise. A threat indeed she was not and she quickly developed a posture that would show her harmless intentions visually which should at least ease the alpha’s mind when he or she caught a glimpse of her. There was no need to make any enemies so soon and it was unclear for how long exactly she would be here, since she had no dwelling she was regarded as a loner but she didn’t mind being calling so as she enjoyed her own company.

It was as if a ghostly veil was draped over these woods but the thickness of the haze made it difficult to see through, difficult but not nearly impossible. It was clear that a fire had destroyed this forest since most of the trees had been reduced to ashes but there were some which were only charred, dead but charred. It was a wasteland however Zephale had been compelled to come here perhaps there were some creatures thriving here, hopefully these creatures would be of the same species. Zephale's reason for venturing here, even if she didn’t mind solitude, was that she was naturally a group animal and instincts could not be simply ignored. I’d be lucky to find something here. She thought but it wasn’t nearly enough to encourage her to leave, or perhaps it was just her instincts that needed convincing? Whatever reason for it she was drawn here and here she would stay to find out why.

Zephale searched the area with curious grey eyes, under these dazzling eyes imprinted onto her coat was strange markings she knew not what the meaning of but she knew that she had inherited them from her father, but the lands were desolate with no living being insight. If I can’t come to them then perhaps I can make them come to me? She wondered, or would that be improper? Her respectable self questioned but manners were hardly necessary now since it was impractical to wait on when they knew not that she was here and without further hesitation she raised her magnificent head towards the sky and let a thunderous howl escape her lips.

The howl had been as proper as she could manage saying clearly that she was no threat but merely requested the presence of the leader; that wasn’t too much to ask for, was it? The howl had been as polite as Zephale could muster which was an incredibly vast amount so it would not have been surprising had the alpha heard it and thought it came from a much older wolf, certainly not of one in 2 years but although she appeared physically to be on the youthful side her mind was not working on a more mature and experienced level which was convenient. Once I have seen this alpha I shall decide whether or not I will stay but it would be ethical to inform him or her of the possibility of my leaving. Zephale thought and decided that this would be the best course of action. Who knows maybe she would soon be calling this place home or things could always go in the other direction.

[silver]

Along the way, the massive black Alpha forced himself to stop for just a moment to take in some much needed watcher. It was quite amazing the brute had lasted as long as he has given that he hardly ever ate, slept, or drank. In fact, he couldn’t even remember the last time he had slept. With a full belly, sleeping did seem like a grand idea; however, Exodus could not simply leave Crise to be on her own with a strange wolf who was trespassing upon his land. Pursing his lips together, Exodus growled softly. He really should have thought better of sending one of his smallest warriors off to take care of a rouge. Though who exactly had been his other choice? Little Flea? Never. Mizuki? Gone. Rhodan? No idea whereabouts the brute was located. Hanging his head, Exodus gave a rough, exhausted sigh. His pack was falling apart again. It happened once before, and it was happening yet again. It was like a cycle. Would it ever end? Would he be able to break it?

Licking his muzzle and pulling his head up from his lapping of the chilled waters, Exodus scowled deeply. He could handle the disappearance of Taurus, the departure of others of his pack, but he would never be able to handle the loss of his Little Flea. The thought had his heart clenched in a tight grip. Exodus would be destroyed if anything happened to her. Subconsciously, Exodus realized that Denali was another wolf whom he wished to remain in contact with. She had been among the first wolves who the charcoaled Alpha had first encountered here on Anikira. Such meetings run deep with the brute, staying with him for a greater part of his life. So long as Denali was somewhere near, Exodus could be at ease. The emotion and realization was one he was not willing to admit aloud. It was best to keep such things private, apart from his ranked life.

Black paws set off again at a brisk trot. Coming closer to the scene, Exodus stopped for a moment to taste the air. The scent was so unfamiliar to the brute. It was like no other wolf he had encountered. It was not long before the brute spotted his opponent. Snarling, Exodus found he did not like the looks of things. In seconds, the Alpha was running at his top speed, rushing through the brush and dodging blurred trees. Like he recently took down the deer, Exodus put all his weight and momentum into the collision between himself and Ardeur. Together they two brutes rolled until Exodus’ spine brushed up against one of the larger, burnt tree trunks. Pushing to his paws, Exodus gathered his full height until he glared down at Ardeur, all thirty eight inches of the brute. “I do not take kindly to trespassing upon my land, nor the harassment of my pack members!” The powerful alpha sneered, eyes flashing with irritation and downright loathing.

“Who are you and what business do you have here, intruder,” he growled, hackles rising to form razors along his spine. Protectively, the large brute placed himself before Crise and her smaller, more vulnerable form. A hasty paw stepped forward only to retract and remain in air when another howl ripped through the air. Exodus looked up, curious and pleased. “That is how a proper introduction is made.” Words were spat with venom and extreme agitation. “I hope you did not have any dreams of joining this pack, for they will surely be crushed. I strongly suggest you leave before I forcibly make you.” That was, unless this brute could somehow redeem himself in Exodus’ eyes.

The black lips tracing Exodus’ muzzle twitched. Peering through the ample mist and obscuring trees, the Alpha found the frame he sought. It was that of another wolf, a younger wolf maybe. It was hard to be sure with the tricks of the fog. “You may enter.” Exodus called out in a gruff voice. It was happening again. Another cycle. When on trespassed, so did others. Amazingly, this new wolf had actually asked for permission. “Perhaps the world is coming to an end.” Exodus muttered bitterly.

(Really sorry this took so long to post.)

[zephale]

A small array of thin, quivering spears of weak sunlight, which had managed to fight through the murkiness of the sky and the thick tangle of twisted branches over head, cascaded down onto the femme’s greyish coat, the slight warmth was pleasurable and comforting in this gloomy environment. She was not afraid but she was a little unsettled, that she would admit to. There was nothing for her to fear here if she chose to follow the correct introductory procedures which she had believed she had done so. But why did the unnerving feeling remain? Perhaps there was a threat here that she was unaware of? Zephale knew that she was wise to remain where she was as searching for trouble was not the best impression to make when one was attempting to join a pack. She knew that they would need to know that she could be trusted; that she could do since she felt she was very trustworthy. But would they see this quality in her? Zephale couldn’t be sure and so she must gain their trust. It shouldn’t be a particularly challenging task; she thought.

The femme had not been waiting for a very extensive amount of time but she did grow a little impatient. It couldn’t be helped. It wasn’t the Alpha’s fault. She had always been a little hasty which was in her nature but she was perfectly capable of collecting herself when necessary. Most of the time her manners were flawless and only on very rare occasions would she slip but she was experienced enough (even in her short years) to right herself. Zephale was constant in her graciousness which she was very proud of and liked to be complimented on it.

Suddenly, from the corner of her grey eye, Zephale saw movement which had her head whipping around swiftly and her ears pricked in alert. What was that? She wondered and she knew that it was unlikely that it was a squirrel or something as small as that, which was probably due to the fact that the figure was too large in size and there was so little life here. It was lucky that there were even wolves. Well…she hoped there were, she hadn’t exactly seen one yet but she wasn’t one to give up easily. Zephale studied the area for a minute and then the sides of her mouth twitched upwards slightly as she caught the scent of another wolf. She had been right! She knew it! Zephale was quite able to control her emotions and so she knew that showing too much enthusiasm could be dangerous, so she grimaced the feeling away and waited.

Out of the shadows a dark figure emerged partially concealed within the mist but she was still able to make out from the build that it was a male wolf and possibly the Alpha. Zephale swallowed back her voice before she was able to speak without being spoken to first; she believed that was the proper way to act when in the presence of one who is your superior or perhaps she just wanted to make an impression? She couldn’t be sure but she was distracted by her astonishment of a pack actually surviving here. There was no doubt that she would be asking a lot of questions although she would try her best not to or at least eliminate a few of them. The Alpha was simple and direct in his choice of words which she didn’t mind really as was expected of someone of his stature. She had met many who acted in the same way; it would be imprudent to have an Alpha who was a complete blabbermouth.

“I thank you.” Zephale replied in her mellow voice which was filled with respect. She made her way slowly and cautiously towards him so not to alarm him although she rather doubted that a brute like him would be frightened of someone like her, she felt that she should be wary. Zephale put some decent distance between them and inclined her head in greeting. He seemed to be contemplating something and she would not be the one to disturb him. She had waited this long, she could wait a little longer.


{ooc: thats fine, I don't mind }

[crise]

[atrb=cellSpacing,0,true][atrb=cellPadding,0,false][atrb=border,1,true][atrb=width,475,true][atrb=background,http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee114/MorningFever/Anikira/CriseTable.png,true] Crise stood there, shocked, as the form of her alpha seemed to appear out of no where and ram itself into the lanky orange brute. She watched with wide eyes as the pair tumbled through the mist and out of sight, her calm fury replaced by confusion. She hadn't anticipated an actual brawl to occur. It... In all honesty in only served to fuel her anger more. This wasn't what was supposed to happen. Exodus was supposed to show up and handle the situation diplomatically. She hadn't intended for anyone to get hurt, at least not physically. Her brow knit in distaste as she trudged through the mist, following the path of tattered branches and disturbed earth that lead to the scene of judgment. Drawing nearer, she watched in silent fury as the black brute chewed out the Maned wolf. Her part was done; she knew that. She had no intention of stepping in. That did not mean the little fae did not disapprove of the way things played out. She'd seen much destruction in her lifetime and wished to play no further part in the cruelties of the world. If one of them got seriously hurt, she refused to take the blame. How Exodus wanted to handle the situation was his business. Though her voice had been cruel, Crise had never intended to actually attack Ardeur. Her bitter gaze only shifted as a howl filled the area, announcing the arrival of yet another. She did not want to deal with this. No, strike that. The Mexican femora was not cut out to deal with such a task. Her social skills were far and few, crippled by a spotty memory and lack of control over her emotions. At the moment she was depressed and angry, unfit to provide pleasant company. How Exodus proudly carried out his role as alpha would always be a mystery to her. She desired not the power nor the glory. She simply wanted a safe-harbour, a place to call home that would keep her out of trouble. Salen was beginning to seem like it wasn't that sort of place. The source of the howl stepped though the mist upon the alpha's command, offering a polite thanks. Crise decided to sit down, at a loss for what to do. She made eyecontact with no one, staring intently at her paws as she tried to get a grip over her own conflicting emotions. If she were lucky, maybe she would be excused and sent back to the dens. A nice long rest would do her some good. Sleep... Maybe a good nap would help her keep her head on straight. The femme could only hope.

[koli]

[Thanks for leading me to this thread Silver ]

Heavy paws continued to beat on the solid ground, carrying the young black wolf back to familiar grounds. Each step he took was like a blow to his heart. Each step brought back memories of Athabasca, and the cruel thoughts he had had about her after she had left him. He felt so guilty, no words of comfort could make him feel good about what he had done. And he prayed that when he eventually reached Salen, that questions of the femme wouldn't be asked, he didn't want to face what he did, not to Exodus or Taurus. They had offered him a home, and although Koli had enjoyed it, his selfish desires had drawn him away, and it had only ended in destruction. Oh how he wished he could take back everything he had done. Maybe then Athabasca could still be alive, and the two of them could have run side by side under Exodus' wise eye.

But alas, this was not the case, and he was doomed to live with the guilt of what he had done until his body finally became one with the soil. But he was determined to fight for the remainder of his life, to fight and make up for the mistakes of bis past. It would be hard and the journey would be long and painful, but he wasn't going to gie up, he refused to let himself fail. There was too much at stake now, he couldn't fail his pack, they were counting on him... Zethrox was counting on him, and he wouldn't let the alpha down, not after he had so graciously allowed him to stay. It would be an insult to fail Zethrox and allow the Knaves to have control. And after causing the problem through his own blind anger, he was determined to do whatever it took to put an end to Ardemu's rein of terror, and stop more innocent lives being taken.

Reaching the edge of the Salen border, Koli stopped and looked towards Apollo, the wolf who he would be completing this task with. Dipping his head for a moment, he took a deep breath, calming himself down for the meeting that was due to come. Would Exodus welcome him gladly? Or would anger at Koli running of cause Exodus to run Koli out and not listen to the important news they had to tell? There was only one way to find out. Lifting his muzzle to the sky, he called out across the lands. "I ask permission to enter Salen. I bring imporant news for the Alpha Exodus."

[silver]

[atrb=cellSpacing,0,true][atrb=cellPadding,0,false][atrb=border,1,true][atrb=width,475,true][atrb=background,http://i38.tinypic.com/350szfm.png,true] When lies become the truth That’s when I run to you

[/i][/color][/b]

In a respectful manner the wolf entered and dipped her head. Returning the favor, Exodus was pleased by her mannerisms. It had been far too long since any wolf had entered his land in such a polite and proper way. It is too bad others can not follow suit. “Greetings she-wolf, my name is Exodus Alastor. Welcome to my lands. Please forgive the Omega. He was not taught proper manners as you have.” Exodus gave Ardeur a hard glare. “Do you come seeking a pack or shelter? Salen can provide both.”

A howl in an odd and unusual tone echoed through the land. Exodus turned away from this new femme and listened to the words that bounced around within his ears. It took him but a moment to register the words into comprehensible speech. Giving Crise a moment’s glance, Exodus smoothly tossed his muzzle higher and responded in his usual powerful and gruff manner.

"All is well, Vee, Alpha of Zahir. Retrieve your daughter. If problems arise, do not hesitate to call, for I, Exodus of Salen, will answer. In time I intend to visit your lands to speak of a possible alliance as I have stated with Kaoru, your Lead Warrior. Until then, may your journey be peaceful."

Ending the call, Exodus lowered his muzzle and swallowed. It was hard to speak to another with no eyes to peer into. Considering that matter settled for now, Exodus grunted being irritated with the fact he could not just up and leave these wolves to pay visit to the Alpha of Zahir. Surely this Vee would know the duties as Alpha were difficult to juggle at times.

Then, a new scent entered the area. Exodus growled low in his throat remembering the scent from previous times. Eyes narrowed, the blackened brute listened for the call he expected. Not having to wait long the Alpha pressed his lips together and listened. The voice was unknown to him, although the scent was quite familiar. It was hard to forget scents. “Enter.”[/i] Exodus called back in a short, sweet tune. What news could this brute bring? If memory served him correctly, this was the same brute whom Exodus had lost a pack member over. Over an unconditional and unreliable thing called love.

Love. Hurrmph. Bitterly the brute gritted his teeth and waited for the two, one familiar the other unknown, to approach. Stepping close to Crise, Exodus gave a small sigh. “I apologize for this informal announcement; however, I believe its time certain pack duties are taken care of. I do not know when I may have a moment of peace to fulfill such dealings again. Crise, I am promoting you from Subordinate to Hunter. I know the promotion is nothing on a large scale, but I feel it is necessary that these things be done, and done now they will be. Do you accept the rank?”

The world is spinning
To a new disaster, so I run to you

[/i]
[/color]
Lyrics © to Lady Antebellum – I Run to You[/b]

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[flea]

[atrb=cellSpacing,0,true][atrb=cellPadding,0,false][atrb=border,1,true][atrb=width,450,true][atrb=background,http://i662.photobucket.com/albums/uu342/syrenwolfess/fleapostbackground.png,true] As the young female trotted along, daylight became like night is only a few short moments. Entering the woods, the canopies blocking out most the light. Flea liked it in the forest, even if it was kind of spooky. As she continued on, howls booming off in every direction. She was missing all the fun! And missing out on meeting new wolves. She huffed loudly, her tongue lolling from her mouth as she picked up the pace, trying to get to the group faster. The white and cream wolf was like a ghost in the blackened forest, her lithe movements make her appear and disappear after every tree she passed. Mismatched eyes beaming in every direction as her nose was pressed inches from the soil, picking up the scent of her alpha. 'I must be getting close, these are fresh tracks.' She told herself in her head as she looked up, ears perked to Exodus's howl. Flea shook her fur as the heavy fog seemed to latch onto it, weighing her down as well. Drawing closer, the scents of others becoming more clear. Exodus was most definitely here somewhere, and Crise's scent was around as well. But also the scent's of a couple other wolves, perhaps Flea didn't miss much after all. Her alpha's black form came into view, and from there she came running. "Exoo~ Dus!" Flea bellowed happily, her tail feverishly swaying in circles behind her body. She was nearing a year old, but the young wolf still had a little pup inside her. Panting hard as her head rammed into her alpha's chest affectionately, she backed a bit and smiled up at him. "I think Mikko and Denali might be coming soon, I kind of ditched them to find you. Hope that is okay!" Course it wouldn't be okay to leave a fellow pack member, but Flea could get away with it for now. Quickly flopping on her haunches, rising a back leg to dig her foot behind her ear. Groaning as she itched that annoying biting feeling on her skin. After the itch was gone, she slapped her foot back on the soil and looked around licking her lips. There was two other wolves with Exodus and Crise, a lanky fox looking one, and a brown one with facial markings. "Who are you? Are you both new?!" Her eyes widened with excitement as her tail thumped on the ground. "My name is Flea, what is your name? What kind of wolf are you?" Her ears flicked back then forward again as she glanced back at Exodus's always serious face as she waited from a respond from the newcomers.

[Deleted]

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[atrb=background,http://i33.tinypic.com/29qfc7m.jpg] The fox-like creature followed the black brute before him. Apollo wasn’t picking up much emotions from him, only a hint of sadness and something else Apollo could not pick up on. Sometimes, Apollo felt both cursed and blessed with his ability to read others. Apollo had only recently figured it out, it wasn’t hard to figure out, all signs pointed to only one thing. The experiments he’d trolled long and hard through worked. He had a power, a secret power that had been hidden deep within himself. A genetic ability that that mad scientist had believed everyone had. A power that had been hidden by time it’s self. A shiver ran through Apollo’s body, just thinking back on those memories he tried desperately hard to suppress. There had been nothing he could do about what had happened, well, at lest that’s what he tried to tell himself. The past was the past, and he could only look forward to the future. Apollo’s blue orbs peered forward, watching how heavy Koli’s paw steps had become, they where closer to the border, and the way Koli walked, there was something about this place to him he knew about that Apollo did not. They had traveled in complete silence, and this was the first time Apollo wished to talk to the brute, ask him the question that nipped at the tip of his tongue. Licking his blinks, the Maned brute stopped walking, pausing for a moment. His small cranium looking behind them, before at Koli. “You’ve… been here before, haven’t you?” He questioned the blackened brute, who’s demeanor grew more and more gloom. Apollo’s ears lied back, feeling the effects of this brute’s auora. Koli stopped and looked back at him. For a moment his eyes stared into Apollo’s and the brute dipped his head towards him before he flung it back and howled. Apollo closed his eyes, listening to the howl of his packmate. ‘Family…’ Apollo thought opening his eyes slightly, to look at Koli again. ‘Brothers.’ A faint smile formed on Apollo’s lips. “Enter.” The howl that reached Apollo’s auds was short, quick and to the point. The voice was deep, but the tune he sung was sweet. Apollo glanced over at Koli before he let his long legged frame carry him across the border and towards where the group of scents mingled together. Apollo felt himself become very nervous. He’d always become nervous around a big group of others, specially when they all seemed to give off wild emotions. Anger, Love, Hate, Sorrow. All of them strong, and deadly to Apollo. He took a deep breath, and tried to shake away the nervousness, however he could not completely shake it. Maybe it was not his own feelings he was completely feeling. Soon, the leggy brute found himself in front of a small group of wolves. He dipped his head to the one who he believed to be alpha. “Alpha Exodus, I presume.” He raised an eye brow at the black brute, a silvery mark on his forehead. Apollo studied it for a moment before speaking again. “We bring news from Haishin pack. I am Apollo, thank you for letting us enter your land and giving us the time to speak with you, we apologize if this is not a good time but our news is of utter most importance.” He spoke fluently, slowly, and smoothly, his blue hues staring right into the black alpha’s silvery ones. Then suddenly, a small young femme nearly a year old Apollo assumed crashed into Exodus’ chest and nuzzled him affectionately. She seemed excited to be reunited with her alpha, before she noticed himself and Koli. She spoke in a hyper, excited voice as she asked who they where. Apollo could not help but smile brightly, his tail wagged slightly behind him. He felt suddenly excited and aroused from his low mood by the young femme’s own mood. “I’m Apollo, from Haishin pack, we are here to speak with your alpha.” He told her, his neck dipping down to her eye level as he spoke with her, a friendly smile on his maw. He did not want to seem intimidating or threatening to her. He’d always been taught to get on a pups eye level to speak with them, so they do not feel inferior. He’d recalled feeling like that by the humans who’d kept him in captivity for so long. Inferior.

[mikko]

[atrb=width,350,true][bg=orange] She couldn't believe how stupid she had been, she had just let the pup go without someone with him. How dumb was she? She was barely over a year, how would she defend himself against attack? Exodus could be anywhere in Salen, Flea couldn't just wonder about by himself, she needed someone to be there with her, to protect her and to care for her. Exodus would go spare if anything were to happen to the little pup, and now the other white wolf had left, what on earth was she going to do? Not only did she have to bring the news that Taurus no longer walked this earth, but now Salen had lost a potential pack member. She was probably the worst pack member in history, and she wouldn't blame Exodus if he punished her. Following the scent left by Flea, she traveled for ages, confused by old scents and scents left by various other animals and pack members. She had a good sense of smell, but she was never good at tracking anyone, and clearly she needed to work on this skill. Who knew what was happening to the pup right now. She wasn't sure why she felt so attached to the young wolf, after all, Flea was not one of her own and she was practically grown up. Perhaps the loss of her own pups and her desire to feel life once again in her belly was causing it. Maybe the unfortunate death of her pups mixed with her motherly instincts was causing her to use Flea as a replacement. It wasn't healthy, and she would need to find a way of stopping herself being so motherly with the white wolf. She had her own parents, and Flea probably didn't need her acting like her mother. Picking up Flea's scent, she felt her heart flutter as she began to head towards the other end of Salen. Hopefully she was okay and with Exodus, if so then there was little need to worry. Exodus was so gentle with Flea, and the pup clearly adored the black alpha, so as long as Flea had reached Exodus, all would be good. Lifting her head up, she finally spotted her Alpha and other wolves, including Flea. Letting out a bark, she ran up to them, her tail wagging madly as all her fears ceased. "Flea never scare me like that again!" She barked trying to look as stern as she possibly could. "Anything could have happened to you, why didn't you wait and travel with me?"

[crise]

[atrb=cellSpacing,0,true][atrb=cellPadding,0,false][atrb=border,1,true][atrb=width,475,true][atrb=background,http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee114/MorningFever/Anikira/CriseTable.png,true] A chorus of howls soon broke out within the forest, forcing Crise to lift her eyes from her paws. It seemed Salen was gaining an influx of visitors. This only served to make the poor fae more uncomfortable. Right now she wanted nothing more than to be away from others; she wanted a chance to get her darkening mind back under control. Instead she was being forced to bare witness to a parade of strangers, many of whom had no intentions of joining their little pack. The Zahir alpha and his family, Haishin messengers, the strangers that stood before her... She flinched as young Flea suddenly bounded into the area, followed shortly by Mikko. It was all too much. There were too many wolves. The situation was overwhelming. Heart rate picking up, Crise suddenly had the strong urge to pant. Several times she blinked, trying to drive away the dizzy feeling accompanying the slowly spinning world. Now was not the time for one of her little episodes. But she'd been so highly worked up in such a short period of time that preventing the blackout was near impossible. It was inevitable. And when in such close proximity to so many strangers while already in a sour temper, there was good chance this time she would be dangerous. Auds pulled back sharply as she let out a quiet whimper, unaware that she had even been spoken to until long after Exodus had finished. Unsettled by the way her alpha looked at her expectantly, again she whimpered while trying to force a smile onto her face. A million thoughts clouded her mind, failing to find anything that could have been whatever he requested. Frantically her gaze circled the wolves before her, hoping something would provide a trigger. There was such a strange group of creatures gathered, appearance wise at least. Luckily, it was just what she needed to infer what had been asked. Multiple appearances. Wolves looked little like the food they ate. Prey. Hunting. He wanted her to be a hunter! Her eyes widened in panic at the revelation, snapping back to the form of Sir Exodus. Was he serious? Did he not recall the last time they'd hunted together. Gritting her teeth, the words were bitter as they left her maw. "You will regret this, but I will do as you wish. I'll go now." She rose to her feet, gave the odd group a final once over, and then proceeded to stalk out of the little clearing they'd gathered in. Though the Mexican femmora had no desire to be a hunter, knowing her condition greatly affected her ability to hunt, right now the option provided a chance for her to escape. This she welcomed with open arms. Too bad it would probably result in her passing out someplace, no fresh kill to be found. Blacking out this time really was impossible to avoid. exit crise.

[silver]

A cheerful and puppyish voice rang out into the air. Exodus’ silver optics turned to see the source of the voice. Hesitantly, Exodus’ body posture relaxed until a small smile formed upon his muzzle. “My little Flea.” He chuckled and then was almost knocked over by the force of his little daughter nuzzling him under his chin. The black alpha gave a warmer smile and playfully chided, “Watch it, my dear. Your strength is apparently more than you intend.” Chucking deeply, he licked and nuzzled her cheek. She stepped back giving him a full view of her. IT was then that Exodus became his normal distant and serious self. His little Flea was growing up. It seemed as if just yesterday she had wandered into his pack and pulled on his heart strings until she had found a very warm and comfortable spot deep in his heart. A fear struck the massive brute then, causing his ears to back and his eyes to turn away from the femme. His pink tongue licked his muzzle.

What if Flea didn’t wish to be in his pack once she was old enough to fend for herself?

A gripping pain seared through the brute’s heart as the air whooshed out of his body. Arching his back, Exodus gave a forceful cough and breathed in deeply to calm himself down. Sighing ultra heavily, the brute frowned and turned to his daughter. “Hush dear Flea. These brutes are here on business. It would not be wise to interrogate them least they decide they do not like us and leave back to their pack land. We don’t want that, now, do we?” He asked and chuckled half heartedly while giving her a lick on her head. Though she may be growing, she still came nowhere close to his large height. Her head was, however, the perfect height for a quick, loving lick.

It was then that the lengthy, orange brute decided to speak. His blue optics found their way to match Exodus’ own silver orbs. Exodus narrowed his eyes, for Apollo stared directly into his own. As most wolves would see, this was a challenge to the Alpha, an opening that was unwelcomed and instantly put Exodus on edge. The charcoal brute’s nostrils flared as he took in the two wolves’ scents and stored them in case he needed it for later. You never knew when another pack might stage an attack. When Apollo spoke to his little Flea, Exodus’ hackles rose and his eyes narrowed further. Apollo had not made the best choice by locking eyes with the Alpha of Salen.

A new voice cut into Exodus’ thoughts of how best to protect his pack members or land if an attack did occur, however foolish two wolves attacking them may seem. Startled, Exodus’ cranium swung to Mikko’s direction. Giving a growling sigh, Exodus hung his head and shook it lightly. It was then that Crise decided to undermine his authority by saying he would regret his choice. Her words alone had him questioning it. Sure she blanked out after that one hunt, but it could not possibly mean that happened every time she tried. However did she survive?! Snorting, Exodus watched her retreating form dash away into the bushes. The alpha cleared his throat and turned back to the messengers from the Haishin pack. “Well, brutes, what news do you bring?” He asked impatient to be back to business.

[koli]

Enter... those words rung within his ears, looking at Apollo he began to head towards the direction of the Salen's Alpha, wondering what Exodus would do when they saw one another, he hoped that Exodus wouldn't be angry with him, he might have run out on the pack, but he had never really made a commitment to the pack, the only thing about Salen that he'd commited to was Athabasca, and even that wasn't enough to make him stay. But things were different now, he wasn't going to run after past dreams, his sights were not set on smaller goals, he would no longertry and become an Alpha, he would stay with Haishen and support Zethrox.

He didn't speak as he and Apollo neared the Alpha, there was too much on his mind, he had to ensure the success of this mission, Anikira would fall if he didn't. It was a bit overdramatic to be thinking like that, but Haishin had a lot of important information; information which other Alphas might not know, and after betraying his pack when he had been Alpha, he wasn't about to let something like that happen. If the Knaves took over control of Anikira, blood would soak the ground and their world would turn to madness. He wouldn't be surprised if the land turned back to what it had once been when the humans had been here. It had taken so long for the land to heal; some of it was still far from being habitable, a lot of Haishin was still broken, and Koli couldn't imagine the rest of Anikira returning to a state like that.

Approaching Exodus, he dipped his head in respect and lowered his tail, submitting himself to the Alpha. Allowing Apollo to speak first he began to think over the words he would use. He had to be careful, this was a serious situation and although he wanted to report everything, he was afraid of Exodus' rath, what would he do when he heard that all of this washis fault? But at the same time, he knew it was right to inform Exodus of everything. "What we have to say concerns Ardemu... the leader of the Knaves." Pausing he looked around the other wolves and his eyes rested on the white pup near Exodus, things sure had changed since he had last been here. "Back when I was Alpha of Haishin, my anger and blindness was used against me and I made an offer with him, he could use my lands whenever he wanted. However, after this....alligance if that's what you want to call it, I came to my senses and made a plan, to take down Ardemu. However, I no longer have my Alpha rights due to a certain circumstance but now my Alpha Zethrox has sent me here, to offer an alligance in order to create a force strong enough to put Ardemu's reign to an end." Pausing, he looked at Apollo, wondering what was going through the wolf's mind. "We could use your help, and I am willing to give you every shred of information we have."

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[akela]

She hadn't stopped running since her time in the Oriens and even her time there had been spent with trying to run from the shadows of death that hovered over her. Her parents death; no... their murderers were still fresh on her mind but she was doing her best to cling on to life. She had made an oath to herself and her lost brothers that she would live for them and that she would avenge the death of their family and that she would find her lost brothers and they'd be reunited once again as a family. It had been months since she had made that oath and she was no closer to achieving it then she had been when she made it. No one had taught her to hunt and that didn't help matters at all, she had picked up a few things from watching other wolves but that didn't amount to much when you were alone. She'd had to make do with bugs and dead prey with barely any meat on there. But it was enough to keep her going and now she could leave the Oriens behind her and look towards a [hopefully] better life with a pack that could hopefully protect her.

She wasn't sure where exactly she was, her only knowledge of her surroundings was the fact that she was no longer in the strange land with the hot yellow ground which had been a challenge to walk on. This was a lot like the surroundings she was used to, with trees, lakes and grass. She had not spent a great deal of time in the strange land that was behind her, it had frightened and confused her so she had barely stopped for sleep until she had reached familiar ground. But even then, this wasn't exactly what she was used to, she had been born within the mountains surrounding the Oriens so she was used to rocky pathways, but she wasn't going to complain, this place looked, smelled and sounded wonderful. But she wouldn't make any promises to herself, this land was still strange to her and for all she knew, it could have been the home of the Knaves.

Wondering through the woods, she felt her stomach growl as her hunger gripped her. Whining she tried to see if there was anything she could quickly snap up but unfortunatly there wasn't; she'd just have to ignore it and continue on. She'd come across some food sooner or later; she didn't plan on dying before she reached the age of one. Sniffing the ground she caught the scent of another wolf and she froze slightly... it was a fresh scent. For a while she stood there, wondering whether or not to follow it, if she did the wolf might help her find food, but they could also kill her, and if she stayed she'd only become more lost within the woods. Deciding that it was worth the risk she followed the scent, praying that the wolf wasn't a Knave and wouldn't attack her.

She eventually reached the source and saw a group of wolves all standing together, her tail lowered she watched them from where she was a few meteres away. They didn't look like Knaves, then again... was their a certain look that the Knaves had? In her mind she'd imagine blood on their lips, but she guessed that they didn't always look like that. Searching through the faces, she saw both young and old and began to wonder if this was a pack... a family like the one she had had. If it was, she hoped they would be kind enough to let her stay, if only for a while. She was so tired and hungry; she didn't want to run anymore.

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[Deleted]

Another wolf joined the small grouping of wolves. This one was different from the others however, her fur was oddly short, and her body oddly built. Apollo recognized her breed however, she was one in the same with Zhen of Hashin, a breed thought to have been extinct many years ago. He could feel the worry and relief surrounding her as her eyes fell on the small young femora he was just speaking to. She rushed over and scolded the young femme for having ran off and scared her. Apollo straightened himself out and chuckled softly to himself. The young one, Flea, was cute. Apollo always had a soft spot for pups.

His blue orbs glanced over to a Mexican female as bitter words left her mouth, although deaf on his ears he could sense the emotion from her and soon she left. ‘Wonder what that was about…’ His head tilted slightly but he shook it off. ‘Not your business, Apollo, leave it be.’ He told himself, licking his black lined lips, waiting for the Alpha to speak to him and Koli. His eyes glanced back at his partner in crime for the time being, Koli. He’d yet to say anything and wondered if he even would. Koli knew more about anything than Apollo did so he suspected he would speak when the time came.

Whenever that was.

The large black alpha brute spoke to Flea, also scolding her and Apollo couldn’t help but smile. Poor thing, never got a break it seemed like. He rose a brow slightly before turning his attention back to the alpha as he asked what their important news was. He licked his lips. “Well…” The leggy brute trailed his blue optics falling on Koli. This was his queue to take his turn to explain everything. Right on queue, Koli took the stage and began to speak of the alliance they where here for and about the Knaves and their leader Ardemu. Apollo closed his eyes, the seriousness radiating off Apollo clamed him, but it also made him anxious. This was a serious matter and what the Alpha of Salen had to say on the matter would be the determining factor for their pack and their plan to take down the Knaves and their leader.


((Note: This thread will be continued on The Birth of an Alliance. This awesome note has been brought to you by the Great and Mighty Silver. Bask in its glory.))