A Looming Darkness

[Xenoxice]

OoC: I'm creating this to begin a continuation of the thread A Not So Silent Night.  So it can go in the the direction it was headed as well as allow the opportunity for me to jump in .  All who were involved with that thread feel free to join.  And for those who have never RP'ed with my wonderful character Varadoss before, he is a DRAGON!  Not a wolf.  His acceptance as a Primus in the Vorlfur was discussed and decided between Mokobo, myself and Rel at the creation of the Noctre Imperii, you can go view his profile if you wish.

iC:

The Domus was always a favorite place to dwell for Varadoss.  Being as large as he was it was actually rather spacious, even for him.  The fresh crisp water fed into the pond from the spring always gave him a smile when he tasted how pure and clean that clear sparkling water was.  But as he lay with his eyes closed, his breath loud enough to reverberate off the walls ever so slightly, his face twitched as dark, murky visions began sweeping through his mind.  Blood and screams could be seen and heard but everything was so cloudy... so unclear and incoherent.  Events seemed to pass by in random order of time and these were no nightmares of the past wars he had witnessed in his many eons of living.  No, these were premonitions of the future.  His visions soon began to fade as he hears the faint wing beats of someone quickly approaching.  His eyes crack open when he hears a faint voice. "Primus!"  The voice became louder and louder but his eyes remained only cracked.  He recognized the voice clearly as one of the Cordus within the Vorlfur. 

Alastolan swooped down quickly before coming to a skidding halt on the smooth dirt floor.  Gathering his breath before calmly addressing his superior.  "Primus Varadoss.  I was just flying over the mainlands when I saw a rather disturbing set of events unfolding.  There was an attempted attack on Icewulf within the border.  I stayed only long enough to watch as a small group ended up dispersing the situation and Zefirino was among the ones present.  I didn't land and get involved since it seemed under control for the most part, but certainly you don't think someone targeted him specifically, a retired Primus?  Do you?"

Varadoss opened his emerald eyes just a little wider as his gaze shifted to fall upon Alastolan.  With a quiet voice, Varadoss shook his head slowly, kicking up dirt beneath him with his sheer size.  "I don't know Alastolan.  It greatly disturbs me that you brought this information to me after the visions I have seen as of recent.  Dark visions to say the least.  Depending on the details of the occurrence, I may council with Icewulf and Zefirino about the possibility of ordering the Vorlfur to be on guard at all times and watch for any suspicious behavior around as well as within the packland borders.  Merely as a preliminary precaution should they feel anything further may come of this event.  Do not speak of this to anyone yet as I have not made a decision regarding this matter.  Should it be made official, keep it low key so the pack members do not catch wind of it just yet.  We do not want the pack to become anxious and jumpy.  Both the world and all in it are still trying to recover from the Great War.  News of any kind of hostility would be devastating to those not involved."

Listening closely to the wise words of the Primus, Alastolan nodded and gave a small bow of respect.  "So it shall be Primus.  Would you like me to summon the others here to brief you in more detail?" Alastolan looked back up to Varadoss wondering what his orders were.

Lifting his head from the ground, Varadoss paused.  "No."  He put simply and shortly.  Looking around as he felt a tinge of magical energy zipping through the air.  "I don't believe that will be necessary.  They're going to be here any second."  The cackling of magic became stronger and louder.  He knew it was some form of transportation magic that was bringing those involved to their location.

[Relairah]

Zefirino was not familiar with the teleportation experience... at least personally. He had witnessed it plenty of times and he knew that for most others, it wasn't really teleportation as much as it was more of a warp to a visible spot nearby or the illusion of it. So being so quickly moved from one side of the territory to another was somewhat jarring. Still, he had to admit it certainly had its benefits. He felt woozy for a brief moment, but quickly regained himself. He didn't have time to waste. "Thank you, Anara," he murmured, before moving forward.

The fires of the hall leading to the Domus and the Atrium caused the crimson tips of his dark fur and feathered-wings to glow. Already his senses picked up those present in the enormous cavern before he arrived. Aside from Varadoss and Alastolan, others had begun gathering as well. His howl before they had come had warned all members of the Vorlfur other than those on immediate duty to meet, and those that hadn't heard he knew would be accompanying Hawke. Or at least, he hoped so.

His brilliant blue eyes settled on those around him, and he stopped as a dark red form blurred past his vision.

"Káshila!" a feminine voice screamed, echoing about the stone walls. The source of the voice was sprinting toward Daichi, her form similar to the unconscious wolfess he carried. Her dark brown eyes were settled on Káshila's form and her black-tipped maroon colored wings were carried slightly outward to give her momentum. Her speed was incredible for her small size, standing at barely two feet and seven inches. "What happened?!" she demanded, glancing to Daichi's face, and then her alpha's. She seemed incredibly bold.

"Calm yourself, Vellina," Zef said simply, ignoring her demand. "It is the reason we have gathered. I won't repeat myself so you'll wait until the meet commences."

The dark red wolfess so similar to Káshila in appearance albeit significantly smaller looked down, a fire lighting in her eyes. She bit her tongue. She knew there was no point in arguing with her emperor, even if she didn't like it. 'She's my sister,' she thought stubbornly. Vellina turned her gaze toward Káshila's form once more, insisting on helping Daichi with lowering her. She was impatient to learn the details of what had happened. And how it could have in the first place within the territories.

Zefirino moved forward toward Varadoss and Alastolan. "Greetings," he offered, the first sign of a genuine smile cracking his lips since much earlier in the evening. "As soon as everyone of the Vorlfur is gathered..." he paused, "There is much to discuss."

[Vivid]

The first thing Daichi felt as his paws touched ground again (if they had even left) was disorientation and a mild illness. He had never been warped before, and even if he had been, he figured that being spat out in a completely new place would make anyone feel uneasy. The second thing he felt was the weight on his back shift a little, turning his head to check on Káshila, making sure she was still sprawled out over him properly since he had no idea how the teleportation skill worked. For all he knew, one of them could be missing a limb! Okay, that wasn't very likely.

With that thought Dai realized that he had lost his transformation during the warp, something he had never experienced losing before. Instead of a large lion, he was once again a lanky wolf. Confused, he decided to ask Anara about it later to see if she knew anything about it once the time arose. For now there were more important things to deal with. Daichi took the time to glance around the large space, noticing that they weren't the only ones occupying it at the moment, and realizing that with Zef's earlier call, there would probably be many more wolves joining them.

"Káshila" He turned his head to the call of the wolfess's name, ears lowering as it echoed around the room loudly. Coming at him was a small red blur with wings and he braced himself, ready to be knocked into, much like Káshila herself had done to him before. Once the blur stopped Dai unbraced and stood facing the female, noticing the uncanny resemblance between the two females as he was barked at by the little one. Unfazed by her demand, Dai let his Alpha defuse the situation and he walked past her to the side of the room, accepting the females - now known as Vellina - help with lowering Káshila onto the ground gently.

"She'll be fine." He murmured next to her ear quietly as to not have others over hear, understanding the concern for the still weak and partially wet wolf. "An explanation will come in time." With nothing else to say, he flopped himself down next to Káshila, keeping her warm and trying to dry her off the rest of the way as his inner flames burned, throwing off what seemed to be more heat now that he was in a more enclosed space, laying with Káshila in between him and the wall. His fiery eyes glanced over the others once more and he watched the interaction between Zefirino and the wolves who were already here, taking a quick look at Vellina again. There was a distinct similarity between the two females, enough to make him place the two as litter-mates. There was also a certain pull he wasn't very used to and couldn't place his paw on, but something about this canines magic tugged at him deeply and made his flame flicker. Was she also a fire element?

His face was straight and he showed no real emotion as he lay beside Káshila quietly, waiting on everyone to gather so the real game could begin. He was interested in what was going to happen and how he could or couldn't be a part of it, and he wondered if Káshila would awaken in time for everything that was about to commence. Over all, Dai was quite stressed though he didn't show it. He had never been to something like a meeting, had never been surrounded by so many others and his insecurities were like a lock-jawed animal biting his tail, a painful annoyance that he wanted to turn around and stop but couldn't. As everything built up he couldn't help but yawn anxiously, letting his tongue glide over his right paw several times.


OOC: Phew, that took me a long time for some reason. Dai just didn't want to be written! Poor boy is feeling pressured with so much going on!

[Adurnak]

Anara's tail snapped out in a blur of motion, striking at the side of the young emperor's head with the flat of it's blade. She didn't put enough force into the blow to knock him out, but it would still hurt if it connected. Turning, the female Shal'Dran glared down at the winged wolf with distaste in her strange eyes, ignoring Diachi's statement as she hissed at him.
"I knew you had become an emperor, Zefirino. I did not realize that you had also become heartless. You have time enough to give her at least the basics of what you know, and you owe it to your subject to tell her what happened to her sister under your watch."

[Mokobo]

"Don't you see the significance?" Hawke's voice was one of the few sounds within the forest at such a late hour. In the sky above, the moon had begun it's daily descent toward the horizon whilst upon the opposite horizon the first glow of morning began to grow. It was late, or early, enough that the song birds were still fast asleep in their nests. Compared with the whispering of a soft breeze and the steady footsteps of he and his companion, Hawke's voice would seem needlessly loud in the otherwise silent forest. Each word was spoken quickly as he increased his pace to keep up with the white wolf he followed. "The Old One not only brought us back, but he brought Shanto back as well. That he could achieve it once, let alone five times- No mortal could wield such a power."
"Perhaps your god had a wager on the last bout and wanted a rematch." The blasphemous phrase was uttered with little effort to conceal the frustration behind such words. Icewulf knew exactly what sort of point his friend was trying to make, as it had been attempted several times before. Normally the arctic wolf would not have spoken so harshly toward Hawke, but the prior events of the evening had his nerves on edge. Any time his oldest foe made an appearance there was sure to be trouble and bloodshed, but this time the sense of foreboding which followed Shanto like a shadow seemed far more dire, more deadly. As the pair made their way through the forest, Hawke had rapidly recited the important details of their foe's visit to the territory. Icewulf reasoned to himself that his recent lack of sleep was simply making him edgy, and yet he could not shake the dread which gripped his heart. "And what of the boy? Why did he react so negatively to you? Why did you let him go with Shanto?"
Hawke would hastily move to recover his balance after tripping over a root unseen in the gloom. Despite the fatigue his comrade was obviously suffering from, it was a chore to keep up with Icewulf's determined gait while talking. Hawke knew his friend was intentionally changing the subject. While the grizzled veteran could entirely ignore the particulars of a subject he did not care for, he could cut right down to the heart of any matter. For a moment the gilded wolf would walk silently, mouth slightly agape as his mind spun to think of a proper answer. "Well- I- I'm not sure why he- I think he mistook me for someone. Believe me, he is definitely Deathblood's son. He may not have the experience, or the skill, but that pup sure has his father's temper. Besides, I sent Phoebus after them to retrieve either the boy or the sword."
Icewulf would pause in his determined march, the fur at the back of his neck standing up slightly in agitation. For a moment he looked as if he might begin to shout, but his chest would soon deflate as a exasperated sigh escaped his lips. Turning around to face Hawke, Icewulf would speak in a tone of voice which showed just how exhausted he truly was. "You sent the bird, the ghost bird I should say, after a druin pup with a sword and Shanto?" For a moment silence would hang between the two as Icewulf allowed his words to set in. When he at last received his answer, a sheepish grin accompanied by a shrug, the white wolf would roll his icy blue eyes before turning to resume their journey.
"Well, it seemed the best course of action at the time. Besides, Phoebus isn't a ghost. His soul was originally bound to this world by the jewel in the bracelet. I just found a way to repair that bond. It was actually an amaz-"
"Enough, we're here." The shroud of foliage had opened up to reveal the fading night sky. What few stars that were still visible would soon fade like the rest of their kin, giving way to yet another day. "Be quiet, I don't want to wake her rudely, especially given what we have to do." They had at last arrived at the home Icewulf shared with his mate Antarctica. Earlier that evening, when the pull of the Mark was the strongest, he had done his best to slip away without disturbing her. Yet he had no doubt that his beloved was aware of his departure, as she always seemed to be. He hated sneaking away from her, especially since showing her the Grotto and promising to stop keeping secrets. Icewulf fully expected his mate to be displeased with his latest escapade, but he had hoped to spare her needless stress. Doing his best to step lightly, Icewulf would approach the den before speaking out in a soft voice. "Dear? Are you awake?"


OoC - So I know it might be a little weird having two separate things going on in the same thread, but it should only be for a couple of posts. It can also offer a way for any characters not already at the Ludus to join in.

[Xenoxice]

Varadoss watched as the air seemed to distort slightly as several wolves appeared from the distortions with an audible popping.  A small smirk crossed his face as he watched them.  I'll never get tired of seeing things like that, he thought to himself.  Looking to Zefirino as he greeted them, he gave a small bow of his head.  "Emperor."  He addressed with a tone of high respect.  "I agree.  There is quite a bit to discuss.  Alastolan has given me some insight as to the happenings of this morning that he saw as he flew over, but not in such detail.  It greatly disturbs me as I have had a great many dark visions in my sleep as of late."  He turned his head toward the Cordus and spoke quietly.  "Alastolan, if you wouldn't mind rounding up the Vorlfur that are still here, we would appreciate it so we can begin this meeting."  With a quick nod, Alastolan took off to search for any Vorlfur within the Domus and the Ludus, as well as seek out Icewulf who had seemingly wandered through while he wasn't looking.  As soon as everyone was gathered, Alastolan would return with any stragglers and set himself back down near Varadoss, awaiting to hear in more detail from the others as to the events that had transpired that seems to have the large dragon on edge.

OoC - Short and sweet to get things moving as I don't have much I can really say or do at this point.

[Relairah]

Zefirino closed his eyes a moment and let out a soft sigh when Anara proceeded to scold him. When he opened them, he met her gaze. "Anara," it felt odd not to call her by another name... though perhaps she was no longer that wolfess, "at this moment we do not know each other well enough to make any sort of asumptions. For now, you are here as a courtesy. While it is true she should know, she will learn as swiftly as I can give it. But before that, all summoned must gather." He felt she probably had good intentions with her actions. At this point, he had determined she was most likely the wolfess he had once known... though what had happened for her between now and then he couldn't begin to guess. Still, for what events his own life had seen, she couldn't know what it was for him to be the emperor of the pack. It was not something he bore lightly and while he doubted Vellina meant disrespect, the weight of the entire situation was resting on the shoulders of himself and those gathering and he hoped Anara would understand that she was a guest present.

Zefirino quirked a slight brow when Varadoss mentioned his dark visions. He watched Alastolan as he left to gather the remaining members of the group, and then turned his gaze back to the aged dragon. "Dark visions," Zef murmured. "There are events also as of late which greatly trouble me, Varadoss. I pray the rest of the pack does not learn of them soon lest the peace be disturbed, but sooner or later some of them will probably become involved. There is much at stake, and I fear what happened tonight was only the beginning. As the guardians of the territory, I will soon be entrusting much to the Vorlfur." Zefirino sat back as the remaining member of the group would be gathering. There was only three left until he could start... what was taking his parents and Hawke so long?

Vellina glanced at Daichi when he offered her some reassurance, and then returned her gaze to her sister's unconscious form. How long had she been out? And how much longer till she would wake? She was no fool. She could feel the heat the other wolf was generating around her sister's body and it only added more and more questions. The explanation couldn't come soon enough for her. She touched her nose to her sister's body, noting that her fur was somewhat damp and cold. Seeing as how she was to wait for the time being, she felt she should aid this wolf that was helping her sister. The gem against her chest glowed softly as she began warming Káshila, both from her own body and the other's internal temperature. "Thank you for helping her," she murmured. "I'm her sister, Vellina," she added.

Meanwhile, not so far away, Antarctica had been waiting for her mate's return. She had heard the latter part of his conversation with his old friend though she was content not to pry. She trusted Icewulf would share with her pertinent information in a timely fashion. Her pale form lay to the side of the cavern they called home and she rose to move toward them. Antarctica reached her nose to nuzzle Icewulf. "Yes, I have been." It was a simple answer to his question and her tone remained pleasant. "I heard Zefirino's call," she murmured, her voice becoming more concerned and questioning.

[Vivid]

With Káshila taken care of for the most part Daichi was a little more at ease, although the events of the night terrorized him lightly, and he felt horribly responsible for the wolfess to have been injured in the first place - believing it should have instead been him who was bitten. That was why he engaged with Shanto after all, to protect his pack mates... He supposed it was partially okay since his Emperor wasn't injured, he did do his job to an extent, but he wasn't happy with it. Despite not knowing very many wolves here, Dai had a strong belief that he would have no problem laying down his life for any of them. They were his family now and that was all he cared about. After all, he had taken someones life before in complete accident, it seemed right that he should make up for it.

While lost in thought he missed part of the conversation between Zef and the others who were in the cave beforehand, only catching the end part where they talked about not letting the rest of the pack know. Wouldn't they know something was up since all the Vorlfur were called together? It was convenient having been warped to this location since no one could have seen them enter and spot an injured Káshila, but surely the gathering call drew some attention and concerns?

Like Zefirino, Daichi was getting a little impatient for Hawke and Icewulf to appear, assuming those were the only two left. What was taking them so long? This was serious! He watched from the corner of his eye as Vellina touched her nose to Káshila, wondering what was going through her mind before the female came to help him warm the unconscious wolf. He was right about her having some sort of fire properties at least, considering the heat she was generating. Was that why he felt that sort of pull? Thinking back, Daichi didn't think he had ever come across another fire user before. Did his parents even know magic? What about the rest of his small pack, like his aunty and uncle? He couldn't remember, and it killed him inside.

Her voice surprised him and Dai rose his head to look over to the female, letting his train of thoughts scatter to listen to her, his expression impassive for several heart beats until he nodded, giving a brief half-smile. "I'm Daichi, it's a pleasure to meet you Vellina." He murmured back quietly, not to interrupt the others. "I'm sorry this happened to your sister. She should be fine now, she's probably just getting her energy back." He tried to assure her the best he could knowing she couldn't be too pleased in waiting to know what had happen, feeling guilty about the situation himself. "So just relax a little, alright? She probably feels your emotions." Was that going too far? Would she get mad at him for his words? Dai shrugged to himself. Let whatever happen, happen. He as done worrying for tonight... Maybe.

[Adurnak]

--You knew me as Lunara...--
Anara's voice, cold and clear as a glacial lake, echoed only in Zefirino's mind as the female Shal'Dran turned away from him. Striding gracefully over to where Daichi and Vellina were tending to Káshila, she crouched down, placing a palm on the unconscious wolf's side as she glanced between the other two, speaking normally when she addressed them.
"How is she? And how are you fairing, for that matter, Daichi? I notice the gamaritic warp pulled you back to your birth-form."
Anara wasn't particularly surprised that the spell had caused an unexpected effect on previously existing magic; gamarye was unpredictable by nature. She was more concerned that the forced, and possibly traumatic, change may have had an adverse psychological effect on Daichi, although at the moment it didn't seem to have had one.

[Mokobo]

For a moment, as Antarctica made her approach, Icewulf would forget his anxiety over the events of the evening. As he returned her embrace, burying his snout within the thick fur of his mate's neck, the elder wolf felt a tidal wave of relief wash through him. It lifted his heart to be so close to his beloved, to know she would be by his side in the coming darkness, to see that no harm had come to her. Many old, dark memories had arisen with the return of his nemesis, each becoming more vivid and emotional than the last. The entire march to their home, Icewulf had been filled with an irrational fear that he would arrive upon a scene of violence just like that fateful night so many years ago. The arctic male would take a few moments to nuzzle against his beloved Antarctica, wordlessly conveying all of his concern and relief toward her well being.
"Shanto has returned." The three words, so simple they almost failed to convey the gravity of the situation, were uttered in a soft whisper. Icewulf would remove himself from their embrace, pulling his head back so as to gauge his mate's reaction. His bright blue eyes were veritable whirlpools of emotion without their usual cold, calculating mask. The elder wolf would wait for Antarctica's response, but would find himself interrupted just as he would begin to reply. "Icewulf, the others are waiting." A soft sigh would escape from Icewulf's chest as he cast a quick gaze to Hawke. In the rush of relief to find Antarctica alive and well, Icewulf had nearly forgotten the urgency of their task. Once more he would move to nuzzle his mate. However, the veteran wolf would make the embrace brief, ending it once more by speaking in a soft voice. "Right now Zef needs us. He's rallying the Vorlfur as we speak, and there's to be a gathering. Too much has happened to tell it all on the way, but I promise that after the gathering I'll answer any question I can."
"Icewulf-" "Yes, yes," Icewulf replied with a voice full of exasperation, "Where is the nearest of your rabbit holes?" Rather than rise to the quip his friend directed toward him, Hawke would instead nod once before turning away from the couple. "The one we used before, under the willow, will be the quickest. It's not the nearest, but it's more direct." "Well then, lead the way." Feeling the weight of the crisis beginning to weigh down on his shoulders, Hawke would simply nod in response to the directive. Despite his readiness to obey Icewulf's orders and the latter's presence at the upcoming meeting, Hawke knew his friend would persist in his 'retirement'. It was an odd thought that his old comrade was no longer in command, and would simply be acting as an adviser. While Hawke himself had refused a role as a Primus out of a desire to instead assume the more active role of a Cordus, he wondered for the first time if he might regret such a decision.
The gilded wolf would turn to once more enter the forest, maintaining a brisk pace. However, Hawke did his best to go not so fast as to leave his friends behind. Occasionally he would turn his gaze behind himself, confirming that the couple were still following. He could tell by the way Icewulf stayed close to Antarctica's side that the former was still uneasy.  Hawke was still concerned about his friend's outbursts earlier in the evening. It was unlike Icewulf to loose his temper once, let alone several times with those closest to him. Perhaps it was simply a build up of stress, after all Hawke knew his friend was not sleeping as much as he should. Yet it was unnerving to see unease in one who had always been a font of strength and patience. "Icewulf, I really think we should discuss-" "Enough Hawke!" The exclamation from Icewulf was sudden in its timing and ferocity. However, his following words were spoken in a heavy, tired voice as he gave his friend an apologetic gaze. "This night has been dark enough. Let's hurry and join the others."

OoC - If you want Rel, feel free to continue/finish their journey to and through the tunnel in your reply ^_^ 

[Relairah]

As Icewulf spoke, though the three short words were simple, she felt everything meant behind it. The impact of what it implied and all of the emotions. Even if the way he embraced her hadn't expressed it, the words did. She immediately understood. And once more, she only wished there were more she could do to comfort and reassure him. Icewulf had always tried to shoulder everything on his own. And ever since she had met him, she had insisted on him sharing his burden with her. Even now, she felt his tension beneath the surface as she was so near him. She pressed her nose to his face as he nuzzled into her, touching a single paw to his own.

Her ears flicked as Hawke's voice flowed and she glanced between them. Yes, she had deduced there was a gathering of sorts. But she knew Icewulf would have wanted to seek her out on his own, even if she wasn't to play a part. As he explained that their son needed them, she knew it meant given their place as advisors. This was a crisis indeed. She nodded toward Icewulf, though her brows furrowed slightly as she observed the way he snapped at Hawke, not once but three separate times as they moved away and toward the tunnel. "Icewulf..." she hoped the soft sound of her voice would calm him, if only a little. "He doesn't mean any harm. You know he only means the best, just as you do, in his own way." She heaved a soft sigh. "He has stood by you longer than I," she murmured for his ears.

At last they were making their way through the pathway Hawke had mentioned and before long they were coming upon the others that had gathered. Antarctica took it all in quickly, a frown crossing her lips as she did. "Káshila..." she murmured. Despite her place as an advisor, she was first and foremost a healer for her pack family. She immediately could sense the younger wolfess had been in danger and needed attention. She dipped her head briefly toward the others in acknowledgement and then moved toward the group around the unconscious female.

She heard as the foreign being asked Daichi about his well-being. Who was this, she wondered? But there wasn't too much time for that at the moment. Instead, she dipped her nose to Káshila's form. "How long has she been unconscious?" she asked. Even before she'd receive her answer, she would settle, her eyes taking on a soft glow as she looked over the other's body. It didn't take her long to deduce that it was not physical but psychological damage she was working through. 'Grr that Shanto,' she thought. Her eyes continued to glow softly as she focused on Káshila's head, drawing on the moisture around her as she sought to put her to some ease. Ultimately, Káshila would have to overcome this with her own strength.



At Anara's response to him, Zefirino paused a moment, watching as she moved across the cavern. So... it was Lunara. He had already gathered she remembered everything from the way she had addressed him. But even so, he had to consciously push it from his mind. They could discuss things later. Right now there were other more important matters. His gaze shifted as the others gathered and at last it was time to begin. However Zefirino didn't fail to notice his brother's absence. Where was Gjelu? He frowned only for a moment to himself, glancing toward his mother as she settled by Káshila. His brother normally would have been the first to arrive. And he doubted he would have just up and gone missing. Again. What could be more important, he wondered? For the time being, perhaps he must fill him in later.

Zef let out his breath slowly. "Thank you all for gathering. For those of you who aren't aware, an old foe by the name of Shanto has returned. He is no mere villain. His abilities allow him to steal into your body and your mind and do with you as he would a puppet. First, I expect an explanation on why he, as well as several others, were able to cross our boundaries." He paused, looking at some of the group that were responsible for border patrols.

Vellina looked up as the group was finally complete and the meeting began. She kept her focus somewhat divided between Zefirino and Antarctica and her sister. At least she knew for certain now that Káshila would be properly tended to. She bit her lip slightly as Zef asked for an explanation for the border breaches. She herself had been a part of border patrol earlier in the evening. This was bad. She had only just been able to gain the trust of the others. It was no small secret that Shanto was her father and that she had allied with him for a long time. But she had left that behind her now. Would they think she had let him through to aid him and betray them? Shanto. Her eyes burned. Had he been the one to do this to Káshila? She wouldn't be surprised... especially once Antarctica said it was psychological damage keeping her down. Where had the breach been? She hadn't even known he was on pack territory.

She rose slightly, knowing Zef was still waiting on his answer. "Where was the breach?" she asked, a little more boldly than she felt.

Zefirino watched as Vellina stood. He could see her conflict written across her features. Her eyes were down. "To the south beyond the Southern Jungles."

Another that had gathered spoke up then, Kara, an Archus. Her fur was a blend of white and silver, contrasted by her deep brown eyes. Folded monarch wings rested over her back, though their colors immitated the blends of her fur. Her build was like most grey wolves, though reflected another breed with its strength in her shoulders and the billowing fluff of her fur and tail. Though part of her strength lay in her years of experience in battle. "If I may, that is one of the lesser guarded parts of the border. Our efforts are spent more on the open territories to the east and the west. Only those who truly know and understand the jungles guard it. Shanto must have bided his time and waited for his moment of opportunity. Once there was one breach, others would have more easily crossed the line." It was not an excuse but more of an offering toward an explanation.

Zefirino nodded slowly, and glanced toward the others also if they had input.

[Xenoxice]

As the remaining stragglers gathered and the meeting began, Alastolan listened intently. The name of Shanto sounded familiar in passing but he shook it off after thinking for only a moment or two. As he watched the Archus Kara offer an explanation to the emperor as to how this incident even happened in the first place, he breathed deeply and chimed in after Kara had finished her statement. "Emperor, we have recently had to re-arrange a few patrol routes as there was a little more unusual presence towards the northern mountain border. To deter any unwanted entry we bolstered the patrols around that area slightly leaving the other areas a little less guarded since they appeared clear. If it is as you say and this Shanto has such abilities, it may have been possible the increase in activity in the north was his doing in order to lighten the guard on our other fronts. The jungle is a natural guard to most but if he by chance knows the jungle well enough, he could have subtly maneuvered just close enough to start this whole mess. I believe Kara was just re-assigned to guard the north-eastern section of the border just a few days ago." Alastolan always spoke with an aura of knowledge and authority far beyond his years, even though he wasn't as young as he used to be. Always trying to think of every possible angle of a situation, assuming the worse case first, which was usually safest when it came to deadly enemies. His eyes were somewhat narrowed as his brain puzzled and analyzed anything no matter how small that may have changed or could have caused this development within the packlands. His sitting posture always rigid as if at attention before anyone of higher rank and authority than himself.

Varadoss laid quietly as he listened to the Cordus, his eyes unblinking as they seemed to stare into a void. Although it may have appeared he wasn't paying any attention at all, it was quite the opposite to anyone who knew him well enough. His thoughts swirled around as he was already thinking possible counter measures and ways to protect the pack. "Emperor Zefirino...." His voice even when spoken close to a whisper seemed to be a normal volume when compared to most due to his size. "I do not mean to jump over a few subjects ahead but I feel we should expand the patrol perimeter to encompass the northern mountains, sections inside the jungle and a safe distance just outside the eastern and western borders. I'm aware that may seem a little drastic at this present moment but I have had very disturbing visions that seem to play hand in hand with the type of enemy you just described and I have no doubt anymore they will come to pass if we don't act preemptively. We can't strengthen and increase patrols on all fronts within the border without it arousing suspicion, rumors and anxiety within the pack. The only way to safely do that is to extend it slightly beyond where the pack members usually hunt and gather. I can tell this is going to be a very delicate situation and if it isn't handled tactfully and subtly, it will cause great unrest within the pack. We need to try to handle this as much as possible without the involvement and knowledge of the pack. It is what we, the Vorlfur, are here for." Pausing for a moment, he lifted his head and turned his gaze to Zefirino, glancing between him and Icewulf. The entire time he had been speaking while staring off into nothingness. "If Icewulf agrees to this measure and sees it as a valid option and you consent, I would also like to recruit Phantom-Nova into the Vorlfur and inform him of the events on a provisional basis. Patrols outside the borders would make communication more difficult but we can't send all of our winged members flying around as that will look curious. There are none faster on ground or in the air than he. And as a courier, he is already seen by the pack passing both into and out of the packlands multiple times on a daily basis carrying messages to members outside the borders. It would appear as usual business for him to others." The enormous winged dragon lifted his head further to stretch his body a bit before lowering it back down once again.  It was usual for the dragon to think a few steps ahead in an emergency, crisis or spirits forbid.... a battle.  It was why he was appointed as a Primus.  After all..... 39,000 years give or take a few centuries of witnessing packs of all species form, build up, battle, fall and re-build had its advantages.  Countless battle strategies, counter measures, preemptive attacks, defensive strategies... all engraved into his mind and which ones suit which situation best.

[Vivid]

His ears perked and he watched the odd creature with sharp eyes as she got closer, still not sure what to think of her. After all she was acquaintances with the she-wolf they had met back in the forest who caused a lot of trouble and excess stress. He wasn't sure what she was either, though she looked quite canine there was very large differences. Enough to make him somewhat uncomfortable in her presence. None the less he showed no fear as they conversed, figuring that if his Emperor brought her along, he was safe enough.


"I'm honestly not too sure how she is. She might need medical care yet, but I'm hoping she is just worn out from everything." He looked over at Káshila with worried eyes, then back to Anara. "I don't feel any different really. I hardly noticed at first, but when I did I was surprised. I've never been brought out of a form by anything before. I think I'll be fine, but do you know why it occurred?" The males head tilted in curiosity as he asked, wondering if it was something common in teleportation magic or if it was simply her type of magic.

After a few moments it seemed that everyone had arrived and the meeting was about to begin, getting up and moving aside Káshila to sit while another female walked over to inspect her. The scent she carried made him assume she was related to Icewulf in some way, judging by his scent all over her, he guessed she was his mate. He wasn't sure what her position was, but he answered her questions without skipping a beat, hoping he could get the poor wolfess some help.

"I'm not certain how long she's been out, I honestly don't know if she was even awake during what happen in the forest. Assuming she was awake... She's been unconscious for maybe fifteen minutes?" Was that an accurate amount of time? Did being warped take time? There were so many variables that he didn't know and hadn't thought about back in the forest... His flame swelled with uncertainty yet he refused to let it show, trying to be confidant in his answer.

"Are you able to help her?" It came out almost as a plea, hoping that there was something they could do to help his pack mate. He figured the poison was completely removed from her system and that for the most part she was safe, but he wasn't sure if there were any adverse secondary effects that could be harming her and putting her in more danger.

Finally things started to pick up and he looked up to Zefirino who thanked everyone for gathering and began to start the meeting, the room feeling a lot more tense then before. Daichi looked around to gauge the others emotions and reactions as he called them out, then back to Zef as he listened to his alpha carefully. Surely this couldn't be all of the Voulfur? How was such a large pack supposed to keep its boundaries secured with so little power? Dai listened intently to the explanations and wondered if Shanto really had planned it all. What was this wolf capable of? His hackles began to rise in irritation and frustration, wondering who else was going to wind up hurt before this was all over.

Were there wolves that allied themselves with him, he wondered? Was this threat going to be bigger than they first thought? He remembered about the odd sword-carrying wolf who tried to interrupt them, wondering if he was one of Shanto's allies. He could have plenty, he was sure. Maybe even some who had been the reason for the pack upping their defense elsewhere. The canine sighed quietly to himself, wishing he understood the working of things better - especially pack politics and wars. He wanted to be helpful, but what could he do? He didn't know these lands well enough to get involved in boundary patrol, nor did he know even a small handful of the wolves who lived here yet. The pack members in this room basically covered all he knew, and some he didn't even know the names of yet! Daichi clenched a paw somewhat and tried to calm down, coming to the conclusion that he would ask Zefirino about it later, after the meeting was over.

Suddenly, something hit him.

"If I may, Emperor... You've said that the wolves here are, more or less, the ones who guard the boarders... Don't you think Shanto will expect you to hold such a meeting and breach them now, when everyone is gathered here?" He felt horribly awkward speaking out in front of everyone here, after all he was more or less the odd one out. His worries however gave him the strength to get out his words almost in a mutter, his head and ears lowered showing his discomfort.

[Mokobo]

OoC - With Adurnak's permission, I am continuing on with the plot. I'm giving him 'carte blanche' with his next reply, meaning he can post whenever he likes and we'll assume a new pattern of turns, or he can wait for the next round if he so desires.

The tension within Icewulf's frame did indeed ebb away slowly at Antarctica's softly spoken, soothing words. She had always been able to break through his icy shell, and it was one of the reasons he cherished her so dearly. As their small group traveled to the tunnel and traversed it, the grizzled veteran remained in a contemplative silence. His temper had gotten the better of him far too many times so far that evening, and he resolved to make a better effort in preventing it from happening again. At the very least he owed it to Antarctica. Even though he had recently vowed to share all his secrets with her, he still felt a strong desire to shelter her from undue stress. If he continued to seem anxious himself, he had no doubt the feeling of unrest would pass to her.
After they entered the Atrium from the underground passages, Icewulf would quickly survey the gathered array of creatures. He was immediately aware of his other son's absence, and could tell by the small frown that Zefirino wore that he too had noticed. Gjelu was a near perfect picture of diligence when it came to matters of the Vorlfur. For him to miss such an important gathering was not only unheard of, but nearly incomprehensible. The arctic wolf would turn his icy blue gaze toward his mate, intending to question her upon the matter, but she had by then already begun to approach the small group gathered around Káshila.
As he quickly followed after Antarctica, Icewulf would assume a grim expression. He took quick strides to catch up to his mate, and offered simple, silent nods to the assembled officers as he passed them. It was meant as a wordless attestation to his reasons for taking a less active role in the Vorlfur. He had spent countless seasons dedicated to clandestine schemes, and had lost many dear ones to their outcomes. Icewulf and his comrades had made great efforts and sacrifices to protect these lands over the seasons, but during all of that he had remained devoted to the cause. It had been during the Great War that he was once again reminded of his own mortality. Already once his loved ones had experienced the pain of his passing, and he no longer could bare the idea of risking that sort of sorrow.
Upon joining the small group around Káshila, a small smile would break through his austere demeanor as Daichi pleaded with Antarctica. Once again he saw a spark within the younger wolf which reminded him of a hazy figure from the past. Stepping to his mate's side, the elder would offer a comforting smile to Daichi and Vellina. "Don't you two worry," He spoke in a tone which he hoped did not reveal how anxious he truly was," This little lady is the best healer I know. If anyone can help Káshila, she can." He would turn his gaze toward the odd figure of Anara after these words, the small smile quickly dissipating. He did not know this creature, and intended to question them about their motives. Yet before he could raise any of his inquiries, Zef's commanding voice would commence the gathering. Holding back his interrogation for later, Icewulf would turn to face the others before taking a seat beside Antarctica.
While Icewulf made to follow after Antarctica, Hawke would instead approach Alastolan and Varadoss. As the three of them were the only Cordus and Primus present, he felt it appropriate that he be in their presence during the proceedings. After taking his seat, he would offer murmured words of greetings to the pair. His salutations were halfhearted as he surveyed the gathering. While he knew a good number of their members were still no doubt absent due to various tasks, it was disheartening to see how few had been able to assemble. As of late he had let his studies take on the majority of his time and attention. Now he wondered if perhaps he had been lax in some of his duties, and as such could be partly responsible for this debacle. Yet he did not have much time to ponder such an idea, as the meeting soon began.
The gilded wolf''s ears would lower slightly as the emperor swiftly touched upon the matter of the borders. Hawke would turn his sharp, golden gaze toward Kara and then Alastolan as they offered to explain just how so many could have entered the territory. He had himself been unaware of the change in the patrols due or the unusual presence mentioned. It was disconcerting to him to realize just how out of touch with the business of the Vorlfur he had become. Perhaps Icewulf was right, and that he had been spending far too much time underground. Yet before he could brood over this dark thought, the booming voice of Varadoss would cause him to swivel his gaze to the immense form of the Primus.
Hawke would nod sagely in agreement to the observations and suggestions made by the Primus. The dragon's centuries of experience and wisdom had been a valuable addition to the leadership of the Vorlfur, and his current speech only solidified that fact. It was true that a panic among the pack could lead to dire consequences, and as such they should keep any signs of the situation from less seasoned eyes. For a moment he considered suggesting they double the size of their patrols, as any one on one meeting with Shanto could be disastrous. Yet he held his tongue as Varadoss looked to his former leader and made a suggestion regarding Phantom-Nova. Hawke watched for a brief moment, as Icewulf only offered an impassive gaze as answer, before taking a step forward and clearing his throat.
"If I may, my friend Icewulf is here purely as an adviser, as is his wish. I agree with you though, Primus Varadoss, that an already known courier such as they would hardly arouse suspicion. I would also like to suggest that we instruct our patrols to avoid directly confronting Shanto as well. It is unwise to face him alone, as we have seen tonight with how he managed to manipulate poor Káshila" After this brief interjection, Hawke would turn his gaze toward the small group around the injured wolfess. He did not fail to note a slight glimmer of approval in Icewulf's gaze. After the brief silence that followed his words, Hawke would perk his ears as Daichi speculated about Shanto making another attack. The golden wolf made to speak once more, but his voice died upon his tongue as a sudden interruption was made.
A harsh, repeating cry echoed down the entrance tunnel into the wide expanse of the Atrium. The shrill notes were reminiscent of the call of a carrion bird, and yet as the raucous grew nearer it would almost seem to resemble laughter. With a flurry of jet black feathers and beating wings, a large raven would swoop into the chamber. It continued to call out its humor as it soared toward the small pond in the center of the Atrium. Deftly the bird would land upon one of the boulders before a spasm coursed through its frame. For a the span of a few heartbeats the creature twitched upon its perch, thin rivulets of blood oozing from the corners of its eyes to disappear among its midnight plumage. Yet it soon turned its beady gaze upon Daichi, titling its head slightly before once more opening its beak.
"Shanto is in a neighboring land gaining the favor of the young druin." The voice which came out of the bird seemed unnatural for one of its size. The masculine tones were smooth and had an almost ageless quality to them. After offering the statement in a mater-of-fact manner, the raven would turn its gaze toward Hawke. "But your founders already knew that, just as they knew of his coming for weeks." Once more one of those laugh-like caws would escape the bird in response to the dumbfounded look upon the gilded warrior's face. Turning to face Zefirino, the raven would seem to speak to him directly next. "Secrets beget secrets, and it is secrets which have compounded your troubles."
Swiveling its blood-soaked gaze toward the group gathered about Káshila, the raven would focus on Antarctica as it continued its speech before any could interrupt. "Secrets held from loved ones-" Without pausing its words, the bird's eyes would dart over to Anara and then Varadoss. "Secrets of the past- And of the future." The talons of the raven would clack upon its stone perch as it passed its gaze between each of the gathered creatures before settling upon a grim-faced Icewulf. "And more importantly secret desires. What Shanto desires is far from secret though." Another brief spasm would seem to take hold of the raven before it once more cast its gaze toward Zefirino. "Keeping this secret will only make matters worse. Rather than hide the threat from your people you must eliminate it."
After such enigmatic words the bird would slowly turn to survey each creature in the assembly individually before issuing another series of harsh, caw-like laughter and shaking its head slowly. "Are all the efforts made and lives lost in repelling the demon horde to be for naught? Will you allow one creature to undo that which you have built? I offer this advice as an observer; protect that which you have built or watch it all turn to ashes. These are your only choices." Once more a fit would seem to take hold of the raven, but this time was far more violent than the previous ones. With violent, jerking movements the bird's body would contort in on itself in an impossible manner. It would almost appear as if a drain had been opened mid-air, and the creature was being sucked into it. In a matter of a few breaths the raven would wink out of existence, leaving a single glossy feather which slowly floated to the stone floor.

[Adurnak]

Anara rumbled in irritation as, one by one, the members of the Vorlfur proceeded to agree on what she considered to be one of the worst possible plans, given the situation. Before she could voice her opinion on the matter, though, her attention was drawn towards the main entrance as the sound of raucous cawing met her ears. The harsh sound was followed by an inexplicable surge in the surrounding ambient magic; a rolling tide of power that preceded what appeared to be a moderately sized carrion bird.

Her ears flicked back slightly when the being spoke, the powerful voice hard on her sensitive hearing, but otherwise she made no real movement until it looked directly at her. Then her eyes narrowed, and the fur on her head, neck, and back rose form a pair of mohawk-like ridges running from the center of her forehead to the base of her tail. Opening her mouth, her lips skinned back to fully expose her serrated outer teeth, and her second, spike-shaped rows of inner teeth flicked up. The intimidating effect of the display was somewhat lessened, at least in her own mind, by the fact that she wasn't in her Ancestral form, but the warning was clear nonetheless. The entity did not seem to care, however, and simply continued it's overly loud speech.

Once the being had vanished, seeming to fold in on itself in a frankly rather disturbing manner, Anara strode to where it had been perched, picking up the feather and examining it for a moment before reaching her mind out to everyone present, speaking telepathically.
--The being, whoever or whatever they are, is right. Not telling the pack of Shanto, not warning them of his powers and intentions, is foolish. It will simply make it easier for Shanto to infiltrate the tar'neim and, in all probability, possess those he encounters during the incursion. Zefirino, I have contacts in the human villages; I will go to them now, and warn them of the danger Shanto represents.--

With a sharp, almost electrical thrum, Anara vanished.



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