The Journey - Open to All!

[Alpha Tenebris]

❝ Semper Paratus
Always Prepared ❞

---

Autumn. The months of bright colored leaves and nice cool weather. Shades of reds, yellows, oranges, and browns now filled the canopy of trees. This was Tenebris favorite time of the year even though he seemed to be a darker soul he actually loved the colors this time of year brings. New scents of dying and decaying leaves now filled the forest air. Prey would soon begin to move and forage for food to store for the winter ahead. Tenebris mostly loved the Red Moon was to be showing it’s graceful self soon.

Dawn had broken over the mountain range, a new days light was now shining over the forest. The alpha stirred in his slumber, rolling over onto his side with a huff. Yawning, the male stood and shook himself free of the dirt in his coat with his silvery eyes still half closed as he made his weary way through the temple of his pack. Pushing the large door open with his shoulder the bright sunlight of dawn poured into the darkest temple. Stepping out of the structure, he let the warm sun rays warm his coat. The cool air shocked him awake as he gave a small shake to a chill traveling his spine. With his ears at attention, he could hear the songbirds in there early morning serenade for the forest. Sitting down Tenebris scanned the area, trees were already beginning to change colors and fall to the forest floor below their branches.

Upon standing the night patrol was returning from their nightly duties, each one bowed their heads in the passing of the alpha. The lead of the night patrol reported that nothing was out of the ordinary and Tenebris was glad to hear it. Although he was also saddened, since the day he lost his sister he had hoped one day that himself or a patrol may have found her or any sign of her. No such signs had made themselves known or have ever been found. With a sigh, Tenebris set off to take a small walk alone. The leaves that had already fallen crunched under his large paws, he didn’t care for he wasn’t trying to be stealthy. His large frame swayed with his steps, his eyes were trained on the ground before him as he trekked along. A small breeze fluttered through the trees and the pitch black fur of the alpha. It was so cold it almost took his breath away Tenebris guessed it had come down from Whitetop Mountains, the coldest mountain range within the Zamora Forest.

Rather soon the pain of hunger struck the male, making his stomach growl in warning. He needed to find food. Tenebris switched from his relax gate to that of a stealthy predator. Silently he slipped around trees until he came to a small meadow. Crouching down he had spotted a brown rabbit nibbling away on some greens. Luck was in his favor as he had approached from downwind and would not be given away. Tenebris waited for the rabbit to start eating again before slinking forwards, inching his way forward and closer to the meal he was about to have. The alpha was within pouncing range when the rodent noticed him, but it was too late. Tenebris gave one large leap and landing squarely onto the small body and with a quick end to the rabbit's life, a meal was served for himself. Tenebris picked up the lifeless body and headed to a stream he knew was nearby.

After eating his fill, Tenebris washed him maw in the stream to rid it of blood and take a drink. Now the male was making his way back to the temple of his pack. On the way, he had decided to travel to the Fluorescent Falls. They were a stunning sight to see at night. It would take all day to reach but he was sure some of his pack whom have never seen it would enjoy the sight. Now back at the Erebos temple, Tenebris made his way to the meeting den, where he would sit upon a stone structure of a throne. With a howl, he called his pack to attention and once they were all in the den so he could be heard, Tenebris spoke up,”I have decided to take a grand journey to Fluorescent Falls. Those who wish to come along are welcome, I will need some warriors to stay and guard the temple. If you are an expecting mother, you will have to stay. Some healers will also have to stay, at least two, the others may come. Those that do not get to come this time will be the first to be chosen for the next journey. Those that wish to company me, please gather outside. I shall be waiting.” With a smaller howl, he dismissed the large group and made his way out of the temple to wait for those that wished to company him on his journey.

Once those that had been decided to go where all ready for the traveling to begin they all had set off. Calling back to their loved ones in farewells. Tenebris set off in the direction of the Falls, the should reach them by dusk. This also gave him the chance to search for anything along the way for his sister. The pups that were big and old enough to go chased one another running just a short ways from the small group and then racing back to their father’s or mother's side. Many of the adults chatted along the way, some having never seen or even heard of the Fluorescent Falls. Tenebris walked silently, he had been to the Falls many times with his parents since it was a family favorite for them. He knew the way by heart. Soon they would be there to watch the colored water flow and to get food.

Finally, after a day's travel, the small group of wolves had made it to the waters. It was dusk, just as he knew it would be when they arrived. Some of the adult wolves had taken off to hunt for the group. Tenebris and a few others stayed put with the pups as they rested before the show once darkness had taken over the sky. A little while later the small hunting party was back and had plenty of fresh kill for them all. The pups were woken up for food, Tenebris chose to eat a small rabbit since he wasn’t very hungry. He had no sign on the way here of his beloved and lost sister. Pushing his thoughts to the side, Tenebris stood on a stump of a fallen tree,”soon the show will begin and you will see wondrous things. We will stay here for the night and return to the temple in the early morning.” With that, he nodded and sat down. Soon darkness took the sky and the vibrant colors of the Fluorescent Falls began to shine brightly and give the surrounding area an array of new color. It was beautiful.

OPEN

Words - 1182

Notes: This thread is open to all wolves whom have joined!

creditx

[Lead Healer Ratonhnhake:ton]

000 Words

Ratonhnhake:ton The tragedy of life is not death but what we let die inside of us while we live.. Squeezing his eyes tight, Ratonhnhake:ton fought the nagging urge one gets when their sleep has ended. Waking up meant facing another day, while yes life was decent the brute dreaded the monotony was wearisome.  Having just entered his nest not to long ago because of his midnight walk he was not to keen on starting the day.  It was when he heard Tenebris moving that his eyes opened fully and he roused his head.  Tenebris was the alpha and well respected, he was a wolf that Raton rather looked up to and he was proud to say that the male was his alpha.  Lost in thought, the brute continued to watch Tenebris until his thoughts were broken by his littermate's grumbling.. Looking towards his eldest brother, Raton felt a sharp pang of remembrance and forced himself to look at his brothers horrific scar. Swallowing hard he tore his misty eyes away and carefully stood up, making sure not to wake his brother.  Just as he got away he noted that the alpha had left the temple and followed silently, just as he was arriving he caught the last part of the report and frowned deeply. He knew that while the report was good it also meant bad news.. Stealing a glance at Tenebris, he flicked an ear then turned his eyes towards the horizon and let out a sigh.. Another day.. Just the same. Shutting his eyes the brute muttered to himself then turned to head back into the temple in hopes to catch a bit more sleep but stopped dead in his tracks  when he heard his leader say a 'Journey'. Could it really be true? Perking his ears and turning his head he barked over his shoulder. "I would like to go, if it is okay with you." Raton felt a surge of excitement, not only would it change things around some but it would give him a chance to look for Karon even though he didn't believe that his youngest brother was still alive after all of these moons. Yawning widely, the brute turned back around and moved to stand beside Tenebris.  The excitement for a trip gave the male a new surge of energy and he no longer felt the need to return to his nest and with a glance to the temple he whispered a parting word to his brother then joined along side of his packmates. How good it felt to be out and seeing other parts of the territory.. It had been a long time since the male went past the border into neutral territory because it often stirred bad memories. PInning his ears, he moved closer to his pack mates. When they had arrived the water had him in awe. His eyes stretched wide and he found himself moving towards Tenebris.. "These lands.. they truly have a beauty about them.." the brute murmured lowly, not really to his alpha more so to himself and when he found he had spoken aloud he lifted his head and glanced curiously at Tenebris.

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[Alpha Appari]

Yet another canine body was added to the list of those gathered together at the falls. He did not belong to the same pack as the rest of them, and it was a mere coincidence they were there at the same time, but oh well. It was just how things worked out sometimes he supposed. For the time being, the pallid white male was on a solo trip. Other wolves had yet to join him in the Adamo pack lands, so he was free to meander as he very well pleased. The male ventured a guess that his lands would not be challenged while he was away for a few short hours. He had just placed new scent markers along the borders only moments before, so if outsiders did not get the picture, they had to be nothing short of daft. That was the only explanation for it in Appari’s mind. And a daft wolf certainly was not fit to carry the weight of a pack on their shoulders. He would just hate to see them try it, only to fail.

Appari moved into the neutral lands at a languid, leisurely pace. He absolutely enjoyed the freedom that open spaces and fresh air provided him. One paw placed after the other, moving him forward towards his intended destination. The man inhaled deeply through his leathery nostrils, expelling thick breaths of oxygen thereafter. It felt so good to be a wolf at that point. His new role came with rules and responsibilities that he was thoroughly excited about, but he was able to relax for the time being. The summer months were actually the ones that Appari enjoyed the most, but autumn was not so bad overall. It was a season of change and transition, so the wolf honesty could not complain much. Spring was nice as well; everything was so vibrant. Winter, however, was a different story. It often was cold, barren and the food virtually disappeared. It was not the most ideal season to be in for most. Appari would cross that bridge when he got there though. He still had a little time yet, and his primary focus was on the falls.

When the male’s crimson red eyes lay upon the bigger group, Appari stopped to investigate. He was the odd man out there, and did not want to ruffle any rhetorical feathers. That would spell doom for even the strongest of single wolves. Appari was more rational and astute than to try something like that. It was then that the Hudson Bay male devised a plan of action to take next. The wheels were visibly churning in his head, and a low hum vibrated his thin, black lips and vocal chords. The best way to approach a situation like this would probably be in a more pacifist manner. Appari was not one for fights anyways, but just so, that was definitelythe way to go. Especially when quite a few younger lives were at stake here. Any good and loving parent would do whatever they could to protect their offspring from strangers. Appari would approach the situation like he usually did any other; in a calm and collected fashion. That should do the trick. If not, well then he simply would go back to the drawing board to find another solution to the problem. No big deal.

The albino beast traveled forward in a confident manner, but one that gave off a pleasant, unmistakable vibe. He was here to get a glimpse of the rumored rainbow waters like the rest of them. A taste of the liquid might also be on the itinerary, should all go as planned. Things did not always run smoothly, Apppari was not naïve to that fact, but that was the hope anyways. Step by step Appari advanced, glancing to and fro for signs of potential cacophony or uprising. The iron-like smell of blood instantly tickled his senses, but was ignored when the man laid eyes on the source. Fresh kills were bound to happen in this area. What kind of leader would this group have if he or she did not feed them? A bad one, that is what kind, a bad one. All seemed good and plenty so far however, and they all got their desired meals in a timely fashion. Appari was just minding his own business, doing what he wanted to do. So were they. And that was really all that anyone could ask for in all reality.

As the male drew nearer to the falls themselves, he became more and more aware of how the darkness was coming. His white fur would make him stand out against the night’s sky, but still he was undeterred. The only thing he really had to be concerned about was his declining night vision. His mutation made it so his vision got slightly impaired in the evening hours, but in all his years, he had learned to adapt to it. It was not that bad as to be unbearable. Appari always just rolled with the punches and went another round. With each paw step that he took, Appari was closer to obtaining his goal, and his focus was nothing short of laser-like. He then found the perfect place to settle himself, and awaited the highly anticipated show. Turning in a semicircle, Appari plopped down in a mass of creamy fur. He gave a gentle sigh and placed his muzzle on his outstretched front paws. Wrapping his tail around his hind paws completed the wolf’s relaxed posture. Ah, there was nothing like a stunning view and a comfortable spot to view it. When his pack numbers grew, Appari would also have to bring them here to enjoy it as others had before him. For the time being, it was just him representing the Adamo wolves as Alpha, but the thrill of more lives under his protective wings was invigorating. Maybe even more so than the florescence of the falls he had come to see.

[Alphess Nereyda]

somehow through the storm I couldn't get to you

#### ♦ @tag

A pink tongue rolled across Nereyda's muzzle as she walked along the green grass. The fae didn't really have much to do, and had gotten bored with sitting around. It was weird to be an Alphess of a pack especially with the way she got the position. Heading to fluorescent falls, Nereyda wanted some quiet time to think about how to rebuild. Her paws gently tapped the ground with her eyes darting left, right and forward to keep track of her surroundings. A distant sound went to her ears and she slowed to a stop. "What going on?" She mumbled to herself. " So much for peace and quiet." Nereyda picked up the pace and moved towards the noise determined to see who or what it was.

Getting closer to the falls, the ground had became a little more damp. Quickly she made herself invisible and continued on. Soon the noise grew and she looked to see two wolves. Hiding behind a tree she studied them both. One seemed to have some sort of dark aura which didn't intimidate her that and the other wolf looked like he knew the other male. Nereyda also noticed she white female as well. She walked up quietly and nodded her head,"Hello to you all." Nereyda sat down with her tucking her tail over paws. " I did not expect to see so many wolves at fluorescent Falls today." Her blue eyes scan each one, before eyeing a small puddle for emergency if it came to it.

► kaigra ◄

[Morana]

[tr][td]

Things had been starting to get a bit... stressful, in Kypo, to say the least. Truly, since that fateful day she took up the position of Alphess, she had not only charged herself with reworking the pack's government and repairing whatever damage her brother had left behind, but she'd also signed up for just the average tasks of a leader, such as assigning tasks and keeping track of everything that concerned her people. That, in and of itself, was a handful, without the addition of helping her packmates recuperate.

Since that day, the tasks had been piling up and piling up, thousands of things needing her attention all at once. When she took care of one thing, three more cropped up in it's place, and it had been going like that non-stop. In fact, instead of things calming down (which one would expect them to do at some point), they had only gotten more hectic as the cold months swiftly approached. Now she was tasked with making sure the pack got enough prey before things went scarce, and making plans incase food did go scarce, and considering breeding rights for when the females went into season, and for preparing the camp in case of a blizzard (since those were common for them in the winter). AND, as if THAT wasn't enough-- There was also the pesky detail that some in her pack didn't exactly... relish in their new Alpha. Sure, she was much better than Elias, but all that seemed to mean to them was that they could whisper their disdain without fear of execution. Some (hopefully only a few) seemed to think that she was secretly just as malicious as her brother, and that she was only biding her time before she returned them to tyranny. Honestly, she couldn't blame them, and even still, knew it would look better to just do her best and hopefully prove them wrong than to try and force them into silence. All of this, all of it, was just... too much.

She needed to get away, she finally decided, after days of mulling over the idea.

She just couldn't go on without a break.

The idea wasn't formed without guilt, of course. How on Earth could she ever think of running away at a time like this?! Leaving the pack to deal with these things on their own? Why, when she came back, she'd just have double the work for having put it off! Now how was THAT going to help? Yet, the more she thought about it, the more she realized she had no other choice. This constant state of stress was clearly taking a toll on her mental health, and how could she be a good Alpha if all she wanted to do was curl up in her den and scream? This wasn't just some leisurely break so she could shirk her responsibilities; this was crucial to her keeping her sanity.

I won't be gone long anyway, she thought on the evening of her planned departure, watching her pack and the sinking sun as she waited for the right time. Just one night, beyond the borders and by myself, to think and recuperate. A quiet scoff rushed through her teeth as she rose to her feet. I'm sure they of all creatures in Zamora, no would know what it's like to need time to recuperate more than the wolves of Kypo. If it all worked out, she figured as she began briskly trotting out of camp, they wouldn't even notice her absence. And if they did? Well, she supposed she'd need to think of a pretty good excuse on her way back.

---

As the long blue shadows of Zamora Forest cloaked her swiftly moving form and the cool nighttime breeze raked soothing fingers through her pelt, she knew she'd made the right decision. Perhaps it was wrong for a leader to feel this way, but with every step further from camp, she felt her heart relax a little more, the tense tightness in her chest releasing ever slowly. Her stiff, haunchy gait eased into a smooth, laid back run, the lean female enjoying the feel of the icy night's air filling her lungs and quickly puffing out of her nose in visible little clouds. The feel of the twigs and fallen leaves that were tossed behind her as she ran. The feel of not having an entire pack of wolves looking to her to fix and manage their lives. Now, let it be known that she didn't intend to trade her duties for this feeling, but... she could at least enjoy it while it lasted, couldn't she? Surely there was no harm in that.

Already, out here, her mind felt clearer, and the answers to problems that had been alluding her due to stress were now effortlessly flowing through her subconscious. But, not yet, she chided. Not now. She wanted to just relax and enjoy herself a bit before plunging back into the work of an Alpess.

As she contentedly moved along, blind to where she was going and only relishing in this wonderful feeling, she noticed a strange array of... light up ahead. Still running, she titled her head and perked her ears, curious. It couldn't be the northern lights; these lights didn't engulf the sky, and this was hardly the time or place for them. So... what were they? Duty told her to ignore it and turn back, not wanting to let herself stay away from the pack longer than intended due to some bunny trail, but curiosity urged her forward, and she just couldn't help herself. Yes, she did know of Fluorescent Falls, but the thought that this could be the place didn't occur to her until she'd already pushed through the foliage and laid eyes on it.

Her once shadowed figured became illuminated by the dazzling illumination of the falls, lightly painting her fur in a wide, lovely array of colors that shone even more vibrantly in her reflective eyes. She did have to squint at first, not expecting to be so suddenly hit with such light, but once she'd adjusted, she was dazzled by their brilliance.

"Wow..." she whispered to herself as she slowly padded forward, awestruck by the scene before here. That was when she noticed the other wolves in attendance, and she unintentionally froze, having not expected to be in company tonight. The whole point of this venture was to be alone, and now... here she was, surrounded by at least four other wolves. Well, so much for that. Her gaze was peeled away from the Falls as she warily scanned those present, and she instinctively started to bow her head in the presence of strangers, but she was quick to stop herself. What are you doing? You're the Alpha of Kypo now, remember? Have some pride! Slowly, so as not to make her dominant posture seem threatening, she lifted her head high and just subtly perked her ears, making it clear that she was not la common creature, but making no move to appear more than them. After all, she didn't even really know who they were. They could be Alphas themselves for all she knew. 

"Ahem. Hello..." Wow. You can tell she has quite the way with words, can't you?

"Apologies. I... didn't intend to interrupt. I've just... never seen these lights before, and... I was curious, and, ah... yes." She slowly perked a brow and inclined her head forward, eyes darting from wolf to wolf as she silently willed for one of them to end the awkwardness she'd just conjured upon walking right in the middle of them.

Smooth. Maybe it would be best if she just... slowly backed away and pretended this didn't happen?

[Alpha Tenebris]

FORGIVE ME FATHER

FOR I LIKE SIN

☼

Tenebris sat within the small group of the Erebos pack. Pups played at the water's edge, sticking their paws in and splashing other pups. Their parents talking and gossiping amongst themselves. The array of colors gave the brutes colorless pelt a new color of the bright pinks and purples that shone from the waters. His eyes catching the color the most, turning them into a brighter purple color than their usual silver color. He had noticed his friend within the pack, the Leading Healer Ratonhnhake: ton had come along, Tenebris took a bit of joy within that. He and the smaller brute had grown close over the years of pack life. Raton is what Tenebris called him and not many others did. Sitting next to one another he heard Raton whisper about the beauty of the lands and water. A rather slight grin pulled the corner of his lips upwards,”indeed it is. My parents brought myself and my sister here a lot as pups. So I’d thought I would share my place of nostalgia with my beloved pack.” After a moment and the creeping thoughts of his sister, he turned to Raton and spoke softly,”mind keeping the band together? I am going to take a small walk.” He nodded to the lead healer and stood quietly before slinking off into the tall grass of the bank. His gate was lazy while his paw steps were uncaring. He cared not whom he left know that he was present. Soon the alpha stubbled upon a small clearing, it was quiet and solitary so he could be left to his thoughts.

Soon his solitude was broken as a white figure peered around the grassy way. Lifting his head he sniffed the air, another was close and closing in. Tenebris had sat down, his ears at attention and his tail about his paws. Sitting up straight the aura around the dark brute demanded attention and oozed power. His voice was deep but not threatening as he had no intentions of fighting this night,”Greetings traveler. I am Alpha Tenebris, Alpha of the Erebos pack. Welcome to the Fluorescent Falls. What is your name?” Tenebris fell silent for only a mere moment as then another body appeared from the grass. He could tell that the first wolf to join his was a male, the new one was a female. She was a mixture of browns and blacks in her coat. His ears turned her way as the female spoke her greetings, Tenebris nodded in greetings,”hello miss. Forgive us if we have ruined your seeking of solitude, we needed a change of scenery. I am Alpha Tenebris of the Erebos pack. May we have your name?” He now had to new bodies to watch, to make sure the safety of the small group he brought with him. It was then that he had grown quiet that a voice from behind him spoke up, it was gentle and soft. Standing to his full height the male turned around and spotted another fae with a mixed coat pattern. His head tilted slightly as she seemed embarrassed. Standing up straight he gave a raise of his brow,”well you are more than welcome to join us. For the Fates have apparently set us all together for a reason. Please, come and join us. I am Alpha Tenebris of the Erebos pack. What is your name?” His voice was still deep but it didn’t hold its usual deadly tone tonight. Sitting back down he now looked to the new three bodies that had joined him on this night. What were the Fates planning? Why were these three wolves coming from nowhere? What was in store for his pack's future? So many questions rumbled around in his head. But now he had just decided to sit and wait for his answers.

WORDS: 863 ☼ TAGS:@everyone

☼ Menma

[Lead Healer Ratonhnhake:ton]

000 Words

Ratonhnhake:ton The tragedy of life is not death but what we let die inside of us while we live.. Ratonhnhake:ton glanced at his alpha and nodded his head and with a twitch of his nose he turned and glanced at the others in the pack and looked from one wolf to the other.  At least he wasn't in the pack's camp.  "Okay, I will look after the pack" he said in a quiet voice as he stepped back from the alpha's side and turned to watch to other wolves. At least he wouldn't have to socialize he thought with an amused laugh and gave a relieved sigh.   Sitting down the brute's eyes began to survey the territory, his eyes moving to look at each wolf. Each wolf was different, each wolf had a different story to tell.. After resting his gaze on each wolf he let his eyes turn back towards his own pack-mates and looked over them.. How well did he know each packmate?  Frowning he shook his head, he couldn't say that he knew each one well and he thought it a shame but his thoughts, his one goal was to only serve the pack and do them well.. It wasn't his job to socialize or know each wolf..  As he sat watching the wolves of his pack his mind went back to the pack's temple, to his eldest brother.. Would Katon be mad at him for leaving without a goodbye? Would his brother think he too left and abandoned him? His eyes widened and he leaped to his paws, frantic he turned to look for his alpha.  Spotting Tenebris he moved quietly towards the male's side, his eyes narrowing towards the other wolves that his alpha spoke to.

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[Alpha Appari]

Appari’s quick jaunt to Florescent Falls seemed to be going well enough up to that point. His journey from his territory to these lands was uneventful, and so was the stroll to his current laying position. The waterfalls seemed to have created an atmosphere of both serenity and vivaciousness. Interactions of various magnitudes were going on all around Appari, which he did not mind at all. They were like the low buzz of a bee hive, creating a murmured conglomeration of sound in his ears. This was sweet serenity to the male wolf; he rather enjoyed nature quite a bit actually. He enjoyed it so much so that as he lay there, he almost went entirely motionless. The only real outward gesture of movement was the rise and fall of the male’s diaphragm as he breathed. His red eyes had gotten a calm, almost hooded look to them, and Appari rarely blinked, if at all. The pallid white male was just taking the time to relax and take in the scenery. Within a matter of moments, this had become a place Appari delighted greatly in, but he would not be able to lie there forever. One reason being was that he had a pack to attend to shortly after this. The other reason was because some immediate company appeared in his line of vision, and greeted him in a moderately friendly tone.

The first acknowledgement of the other male was Appari’s tail thumping against the ground near his toes, and his crimson eyes rising to make contact with Tenebris’ own. The cream male lifted his head from his paws, and the rest of his body followed suit thereafter. Speaking to others from a lower position had the potential for unnecessary communication problems. In the past, subordinate wolves often lowered themselves when speaking to a superior one. Seeing as they both were of the same position though, that simply would not do here, at least until initial introductions were made. Both males were on a level playing field, and the situation could be treated as such, even though Appari did not want to make a big deal about it. He never wanted to make a big deal about anything. A loud crack of some sort soon followed as Appari stretched luxuriously, and settled into his upright seat. The wolf rocked back on his heels slightly and then found a comfortable position all before speaking, though still agreeable enough in nature. Finally words formed upon Appari’s lips, and thus provided a proper response to his male counterpart’s salutation.

“Greetings to you as well Alpha Tenebris of the Erebos wolves,” the male stated simply in return. His expression had not changed from the ground up, but there was a notable placidness to his tone. He was not here for a fight either; the primary goal was merely to enjoy the proffered breathtaking view. If they could all do it in one accord, then that was even better than originally planned. Those red eyes of Appari’s had become wide and alert since he sat upright, and they were momentarily scanning everything within a feasible distance. He ascertained quickly that the largest group gathered here must be members of the Erebos pack. Nodding once to Tenebris, the wolf decided it was time to introduce himself as well. “I am Appari, Alpha of Adamo. It is a pleasure to make your acquaintance.” Hearing his newly claimed title tickled Appari on the inside, but he did not outwardly show it at all. He was not a boastful creature or a braggart, so once the newness of it wore off, so would that sensation probably. But for the time being it was something he was grateful for and something he really could be proud of.

When others began to arrive on the scene, Appari’s attention could not help but deviate from Tenebris and his inner emotions temporarily. His deep crimson gaze shifted first to the vividly blue eyed female, and then the multi colored female who followed shortly after. Appari let the Erebos Alpha speak his piece before even remotely attempting to talk again. When the second male appeared, Appari noticed his narrowed eyes, but chose to take it with a grain of salt. He was a wolf of calm contemplation and chose his words and expressions very specifically. There was nothing in his life that really forced Appari to be that way; he just…was that way. Other wolves had endured such traumatic and devastating blows in their lives while Appari was fortunate enough not to. His life had been relatively normal thankfully. But his name did suit him well, and he was a ghostly like figure on more than one occasion. Luckily he was a friendly ghost like Casper instead of being a malicious one that haunted wolves. That certainly would be a sight to see.

Nodding to each wolf in turn, Appari’s tail gently swished back and forth once, and his words came forth again at the right time. The male did not necessarily know how he felt about fate as Tenebris spoke of, but they were all conveniently standing together in a bunch at the same time. He might as well get to know the company he kept, even if it only was for a short duration. Who knew what the future could hold? They could all run into each other later on and be familiar, or they could not at all. Who really knew? It was worth a try though the wolf supposed. “Hello there madams, and to you as well sir.” the white wolf said. “I am Appari, Alpha of Adamo.” The man was glad that he only had to introduce himself twice; it made it easier on him most definitely. When it came to chatterboxes, Appari certainly was not one of them. He said what had to say, said what he meant, and meant what he said all the time. It was as simple as that for him. And while his amiable nature could be perceived in the things he said without fault, it was even better on display through his actions.

[Beta Zverin]

Unbelievable. He couldn’t believe she simply left like that. What the hell was she thinking? Going out the lands alone, completely unprotected, without telling a soul about it. She could be attacked, by other wolves or animals, injured, betrayed. Did she not care about herself? Yes she has been stressed lately, it was easy for him to tell. He knew her and felt her tension whenever she was around. She needed to relax, take a break, ease her mind a bit. He understood that, but alone?! Without telling him at least? After everything that has happened he thought she would trust him more to tell him she was taking some time off. He would have come with her or at least sent a Sentinel to keep her safe without even bothering her, if it was so important for her to be alone. Instead he was doing that himself. What if something happened to her? What if she died and they found out days or weeks later after sending others to find her remains? He was the Beta but he couldn’t just take her place if that happened. He couldn’t. And he would never forgive himself if she was gone. She was the only one he truly cared about and he swore to protect her with his life.

A growl left his throat as he bared his fangs annoyed. Damn it, Morana! His paws moved easily and expertly along the vegetation following her trail without making a single sound. All that time being a Sentinel for her made him undetectable. Right now his idea was to follow her from a distance without her knowing it. He only wanted to make sure she would be alright and nothing or no one dared to attack her. As soon as she walked back to Kypo he would act as if nothing happened. He knew he should be in charge of the pack without her around but he left the Elders to make the choices and the Sentinels around the temple to keep an eye on everything until Morana and he returned. He was more worried for her and he didn’t trust anyone to protect her like he would. He didn’t care to die, while others feared it and that made them useless when it came to give their life for her.

Suddenly he stopped, crouching down as he realized he had went to close to her. He could see her several feet away, staring at the lights ahead of them. Don’t, Morana. Turn around. He thought. He had seen trails of other wolves going to the same direction as he was following her. The muscles of his abdomen clenched as he stopped himself from growling. She was moving again towards the lights. He followed keeping his attention high for other creatures around them. As soon as he detected the other wolves he tensed, his eyes moving from one wolf to the other, four of them, all grown adults, as his Alphess neared them. Morana! He thought annoyed, hoping that somehow she would stop and retreat but it was too late. He dig his claws into the ground as he clenched his fangs. He never liked the company of other wolves except for Morana, especially when they were wolves of other packs or rogues. He couldn’t trust them. Morana could take down two or maybe even three of them if she acted fast, if they were all normal wolves, but if they were alphas and had the power and experience, one was enough to kill her.

He hid behind some rocks, hoping he didn´t have to intervene. Yet he didn’t like she was alone there surrounded by so many unknown wolves. His golden eyes stared at her as she spoke, sighing quietly at her tone of voice. Come on. You will be seen as an easy prey speaking with that level of confidence. When the black male spoke, the fur from his back stood up. Alpha Tenebris? He had heard of him before when he traveled. Leader of Erebos and a darkness user. This was not good. From all the damn wolves of this world it had to be him. His tension increased when he heard that one of the females was also an Alpha. Now, what about the other two? What the hell was this? Why were they here? He didn’t want to stay hidden anymore. He was going to be at her side and support her. If anything happened he would be right there to protect her and wouldn’t lose a second to sink his teeth into whoever that dared to get close to her.

A low growl was heard as he stepped out, walking with his head high, tail straight and ears perked to the front. He rose his hackles slightly as he made his way besides Morana. His eyes glanced at her for a second, silently telling her that he would explain his presence there later on, before he stared at Tenebris without any sign of submission. He kept his power down to not show he was an ice user, his hair was up and his muscles tensed. No word came out from him thou, not having the slight interest to let them know who he was.

[Alphess Nereyda]

somehow through the storm I couldn't get to you

#### ♦ @tag

So many wolves had popped out of all angles that she just had to take a small breath. Nereyda was glad to see some more faces, but some seemed quite intimidating to the fae. Her ears briefly catches onto the names of the wolves and list other small details about them from her observation, which she took them into her head. The fae stretched out her limbs for a small second before the alpha of Eberos asked of her name. Her blue hues locked onto his before she began to speak to everyone. "I am Alphess Nereyda of Nereus, and it's a pleasure to meet you all." Nereyda gently nodded her in a gesture of respect. One of the many things that Mags taught her at her young age, a skill that is greater than any element combined is what she always said. She soon heard Tenebris apologizing if he interrupted any of the wolves' solitude. "Oh please, it is no problem at all. It's always nice to see new wolves in a peaceful setting once in awhile."

Nereyda's head soon turned as picked up the sounds of the grass moving and a small growl of a wolf that had joined their little gathering. Mentally she was slightly annoyed with the male. The presence he gave off had the feelings of tension and she did not want to deal with any disagreement today. Silently she shifted her focus to the female named Morgana. "May I ask you the question of who is this, as it seems he is a bit on the quieter side. Hmm?" Hopefully the Alphess didn't take her question as snarky as she looked towards the others to see if her comment was received well or not. Her personality is something that most would either enjoy it or hate as her ideas of interaction is slightly off hinged even though many times she tried many other ways. Either way she still somehow gets her points across. Which lead her to this moment her life right now, of becoming an Alphess and being able to help reform slightly broken like herself to possess great power.

► kaigra ◄

[Morana]

From what she could tell so far, the gathered parties seemed rather calm and amiable, none showing any immediate signs of aggression or irritation towards her interruption. In fact, it seemed she wasn’t the only uninvited guest, as they all started exchanging pleasantries like this was their first time meeting. Such knowledge helped her to feel a little less out of place, so she relaxed… somewhat. Despite the dark male before her proposing the idea that “fate” must have brought them all together, she was understandably hesitant to agree. Fate had never really had a good part to play in her life - had everything been left “fate”, the Kypo wolves would still be ruled by a tyrant, and who know’s where she’d even be… Their meeting was a coincidence at best, she privately thought.

An almost eerie coincidence, for it seemed that every wolf that had introduced themselves not only happened to come here at the same time as she, but they all happened to be Alphas as well… or so they claimed, anyway. She vaguely recognized the name Erebos from her mother’s lessons in politics, but knew nothing of the other two packs. Were they new, or was Kypo truly that ignorant…? Though this meeting was unexpected and a bit uncomfortable for one whom had expected to be alone tonight, she was grateful to be learning such diplomatic information… again, assuming the were being honest and that these nations really existed.

Still feeling as if she’d walked in on something she shouldn’t have, she waited in patient silence as each wolf introduced themselves, feeling it was only fitting for hers to come last. She also felt she’d be more comfortable knowing who she held company with before just giving out her own name. Honesty, she wasn’t even sure if she wanted to tell them who she was, but in the event they all really were Alphas, she figured it’d be just as important for them to know who she was as it would be for her to know who they were. She memorized their names and faces as best as possible: Alpha Tenebris of Erebos, Alpha Appari of Adamo, and Alphess Nereyda of Nereus. There was another wolf that had joined their group whom silently took to the side of Tenebris, not saying a word and suspiciously eying all of them. He didn’t introduce himself, and his behavior contrasted the others in such a way that it made her a bit tense, but she figured he must be with Erebos, considering how he clung to its leader’s side. Perhaps just a bodyguard, or Beta. Speaking of Betas…

Shortly after Nereyda introduced herself and before Morana had a chance to do the same, yet another wolf slowly prowled into the clearing, his presence announced long before he was visible by the rustling leaves and thunderous growl in his throat. The growl had instantly alarmed her, her head whipping in its direction with her ears perked and eyes alert. Was it a rogue? Another wolf of Erebos? One of the other leaders’ followers? Well, it seemed the last answer was technically right… for it was Zverin, her own Beta, that had joined them. She relaxed only moderately at this, and in her pounding heart’s place was a hot bubble of shame in her chest and stomach. He’d drawn their attention now (as a snarling, foreign stranger would), and dared to enter with his tail held high and his hackles raised, nearly every sign of aggression and dominance clear on his face and body. Not only was this an inappropriate display (that she blamed herself before more than him), but if he was here, who was looking after the pack…? She trusted he would’ve put someone in charge, but the idea that it could be anyone other than her trusted right hand made her anxious... With just a quick glance in her direction (“i’ll explain later”), he simply marched up to her side and glared at Tenebris, firmly taking what he considered to be his rightful place, not offering a single word to anyone, quite similarly to the Erebos wolf, though Zverin was far more aggressive. Nereyda was the first to acknowledge his presence, the female’s indigo gaze trained on Morana:

"May I ask you the question of who is this, as it seems he is a bit on the quieter side. Hmm?"

The shamed heat swirled, stirred by a quick surge of pride. She didn’t take kindly to the female’s tone, but it wasn’t because it wasn’t deserved, or because the she-wolf had no right. The Kypo Alphess simply wasn’t used to having someone who was her equal, who could speak to her in such a way because they didn’t owe her any allegiance. She supposed, if she intended to be a respectful diplomat, she should get used to it… The question was completely understandable in itself, and as much as her foolish pride would argue, she was at fault for that tense interruption. Had she told Zverin where she was going, or that she was going at all, perhaps he could’ve rested easy and remained at camp, but she hadn’t. She thought she could just slip out for a bit and come right back, unnoticed, but she should’ve known better. She couldn’t really fault Zverin for acting this way either; she knew it was just in his nature and that he wouldn’t really do anything to anyone unless things got dangerous. No, she’d take responsibility for this one, as she should.

Having managed to remain mostly stoic throughout this endeavor despite her discomfort, her gaze was calm and apologetic as she looked at Nereyda, then back to the others. “Apologies,” she offered politely, then turned her head to gently nose Zverin’s shoulder, silently telling him to ease his body language. “My guard,” she introduced, which was true enough, given the male’s protectiveness of her. It seemed better to say he was her bodyguard than to say he was her Beta and that both leaders of Kypo had left the pack unattended… “I was not aware he was following that closely behind.” Or at all. She dipped her head as a secondary apology. “I assure you, he is only a threat when one is needed.” She then proceeded to give him a sidelong look that was less of a harsh order for obedience and more of a tranquil reassurance that she was certain it was okay for him to back down.

Now, with that out of the way, she returned her gaze to the group and lifted her head nobly. “I am Morana, Alphess of Kypo.” The faintest of amused smiles quirked her lips as she glanced around. “It is a pleasure to unexpectedly meet you all as well. I must say, I’ve heard faint tale of Erebos-” She nodded at Tenebris. “-but this is the first I’ve heard of Nereus and Adamo…?”

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ooc: sorry to keep you all waiting!
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