A not so Silent Night

[Mokobo]

At first Icewulf felt a tinge of disappointment grip his heart as the female druin was the first to answer his inquiry. While perhaps her claimed skill in suggestion could serve to weaken the control his old foe was exerting, such could not hope to remove the pollution of Káshila's person. "-What is the nature of this taint?" That in itself is a rather apt description. Continuing his somewhat distant examination of the felled female, the elder wolf would prepare to answer the un-named druin's inquiry. However, before the first syllables could leave his lips, yet another newcomer made their entrance.
As Icewulf found himself rather rudely addressed, a nonplussed look broke through the normal cold, precise demeanor he held. Gramps? Just who do you- The thought was broken as shafts of energy were formed in Icewulf's immediate vicinity, forcing him to leap backward in a surprisingly deft move in order to avoid capture himself. Quickly the elder regained his knowledge, a slight, concerned frown taking hold upon his lips. Some sort of light or energy power...no, that won't do at all. Icewulf found himself growing anxious. He was not certain how long Shanto's poison had been in his own child's veins, but undoubtedly there was not much more time before it would fully take control, if it hadn't already. So far these new arrivals had not been able to help the situation and could possibly foil their whole endeavor.
Quickly those bright blue eyes would dart over to the male druin, the one that brought forth vague half-forgotten memories. Deciding there was not the time to rebuke the newest arrival for their rather insolent interference, Icewulf would instead take a deep breath before speaking quickly in answer to the female druin's question. "Her father, my oldest foe, has infected her with his darkness. His vile soul stole the magic of shadows to spread his black intent into others. It's a trick one of my dead brothers, the first he killed, used in a far less intrusive way. It spreads through his victim's blood until it he can bend their will to his whim." And that bastard has done it to his own child!


OoC - Monkey reporting for duty -salutes- Any who, I did my best to keep this as concise as possible seeing as how I'm out of turn =3 We can keep this new order, or return to the other, whichever everyone prefers ^_^ I'm not picky

[Relairah]

As the cage of light surrounded Káshila and the warmth returned to her body, she stirred with the prior viciousness she had shown. Her eyes focused on Icewulf and then she looked around at the cage, searching for her exit. Her paws still found earth beneath them and vines rose from the earth once more from outside the cage, making their way toward the new arrival on top of it and attempting to grasp her and throw her from it. Whether or not she was successful, Káshila was relentless, a smirk forming on her lips as she calmed, sitting back and watching the others. "So many fools. To think you could do what no one has ever done yet."

Erebus glanced toward the wolf who spoke first, the one with fire abilities, as he explained she was being manipulated. Slowly, he felt it made sense given the contradiction of her scent and the actions unfolding. And further, he felt the explanation was the key to the sense he felt within him, though he still couldn't quite place it. As the older white wolf spoke, it was clear the situation was urgent and action was needed. Swiftly. But what action, specifically? What did he mean the poison was not like that of a viper? Other than that it was no typical poison.

Before he could form a response, yet another entered the scene and proceeded to rudely insert herself into the situation as if she could wrap everything up nicely. She even perched on her creation as though it solved everything. And yet... he could still feel the unsettling disturbance within his being. What was this?

A frown formed at the corners of his lip as the newcomer then proceeded to inquire about them and act as though she were now in charge. Clearly, this was her first encounter with their kind. But that was of no matter. He ignored her questioned, and instead, Erebus glanced briefly at Rykjudo as she spoke, inquiring further. He felt there was indeed more to it. Something lay beneath the surface.

Then, the white wolf spoke again. Erebus had to admit he also felt feelings of old memories. Though he brushed them aside. He took a step forward at the explanation, focusing his gaze on the red and white female now trapped in the cage of light. He watched as she became more composed, as if she had been the one to catch them and not the other way around. Her father is doing this? Erebus found himself once more feeling a stir of memories. But not pertaining to any of those before him. Rather... his own family, and all the trouble that had ensued. He again pushed it from his mind.

Magic of shadows? This ability was not so different from his own in a small way. He could never think to use his in such a violating manner. But he was familiar with the feel of controlling the shadows of another all the same. At last, the stirring within him made sense. It was the magic within her that he sensed. Erebus silently thought of all he had learned of fate and the will of the gods. He at times debated if it were all real or not. But in this instance... perhaps it was more than mere coincidence his path with Rkyjudo and their journey had lead them here and now. Drawing in his breath, Erebus finally spoke, lowering his stance.

"Perhaps I can draw the magic from her. But I cannot say what sort of reaction will happen, and if you all are too close who might get hurt. If it is as you say, it may even be a battle of wills. Thank you, wolfess, for at least providing confinement," Erebus murmured, looking at the newest comer to the group.

With that, he tensed, his gaze focusing on Káshila. "Luca fuwhn ygb magb hu co pezz," Erebus uttered in his native tongue, partially to focus his energy.

At first, Káshila laughed. If the first attempts were to no avail, why should this be any different. But then, her gaze met the Druin's, and the black markings about his left eye almost seemed to come to life. She found she couldn't tear her gaze away, and yet a voice within her growled viciously. As Erebus had thought, it was indeed a battle of wills. She felt the pull on her mind and the urge to leap past the cage and attempt to tear at the Druin's throat. But she also felt something else.

Erebus held her gaze, and the fact she wasn't looking away was a good sign, to him anyway. He focused on the feeling he had felt on first arrival, the shadow-magic the white wolf had spoken of. He could sense it readily and its pull was enormous. Erebus' claws dug into the earth as he felt a tug against him. There was life-force other than her own within her. Yet he knew if it were shadow, he could bend it. Slowly, carefully, he let himself feel every aspect of the shadow-poison, gathering it and summoning it from its flow through her veins to one place until he began to pull it from her body. The shadowy-mist seeped out from her eyes like tears turning to vapor. Yet every second he struggled. It was as though the will to free this wolfess from whatever life-force controlled her took in turn his very life-force as well.

As the shadowy-mist exited Káshila, it almost seemed to cringe at the brilliance of the cage of light around it, trying to retract back into the body. But Erebus' will was firm and he at least forced it to remain where it was. And at last, the wolfess collapsed, perhaps from sheer exhaustion. Erebus glanced toward the others. "She is freed," he said simply.

Near the end of the situation, yet more wolves were approaching the group. In contrast to most of the others present, his pelt was a smokey black with tints of crimson. Zefirino had agreed with Hawke at the suggestion they find his father and discern what had happened after their parting with Daichi. And the more he'd thought of it, the more an unsettling feeling had settled within the pit of his stomach. His dark paws slowed as the others came into view. He had known there were more to it than just the pack by scent before his arrival... but seeing them his instinctual reaction was guarded. His gaze quickly took in everything. At the least, his father appeared unharmed. But there was much to address. Three loners on pack territory was troubling, aside from the fact they clearly had missed something incredibly terrible concerning Káshila. "Daichi, please, tell me what happened after you left us," he said, knowing of all present, he had seen the most. He had even been present when Shanto had first invaded. He had to know that at least Shanto was not a remaining presence.

[Vivid]

Icewulf didn't disagree to his presence, so Dai remained beside the elder, eager to help but not sure what he could do. His tail was restless behind him twitching and swaying and he consistently licked at his lips in stress, the heat of his body remaining steady, still focusing on supplying warmth to the other. His ears flicked when he heard Icewulf answer, meekly nodding his head, not saying anything further.

Feeling that the elder had things more or less under control, Daichi let the few orbs of flame sizzle out around him after watching Icewulf tear at the vines, his fiery gaze flipping between the Druins, Icewulf, and poor Káshila. If only I'd been more alert, she wouldn't have been hurt.. He was snapped out of his self pity listening to the others converse, jumping into action as he was given an order. The male took a moment to adjust his inner flame to lessen the amount of heat he gave off, not getting to take more than two steps forward before jumping aside, nearly knocking into Icewulf as a strange wolf appeared beside him. He snarled and his hackles raised in his surprise, hardly noticing that the new wolf had said anything.

Subconsciously he knew his place, and withheld from snapping out at the newcomer, the female before him leaving Dai with a very poor first impression. She didn't smell like Pack, she was rude and came out of nowhere, as much as he'd like to think he was distracted, (like when the two Druins had shown up) he knew better, wondering just how she appeared without him noticing. Her grin made him bare his canines more with his lips pulled straight back, his eyes glowing faintly as his inner fire surged.

In another flash, the wolfess was gone from his side, and Daichi had to jump back with Icewulf for fear of being caught in the cage, his snarl lessening only slightly. The game had changed, and Dai knew that it wasn't for the better. Káshila was unattended in this cage of light, as far as he knew, he couldn't enter it to restrain her. While his knowledge was limited on the subject, he knew normal poisons acted and spread faster when one was active or stressed, and he knew already that the poor female was more than stressed. His frustration and anxiety grew and his heat increased, taking slow breaths to keep himself from exploding. Literally.

A little calmer than before, he listened to the conversation that took place around him, picking out one line that struck him the hardest. Shanto was Káshila's father? This was news to the male, and it made him sick to his stomach. Her own father did this to her? He swallowed hard and made a mental note to rip Shanto's throat out when he next saw the bastard, not wishing Káshila's fate on even his worst enemies. To be betrayed by your own blood...

Immediately as Káshila reacted, Daichi flew into action. Several orbs of fire crackled to life around him, and flew at the vines, dealing damage to a few, if not all. This sort of magic wasn't very taxing on the still young wolf, but his numbers were limited - he wasn't able to take out anywhere near all the vines with just a few orbs. While he worked to limit the amount of control Káshila had over the situation, one of the Druins worked on removing the poison from her, trying to help as much as he could. His snarl had left him and this white wolf still annoyed the male, but there were more important things at hand. After several moments, Dai recognized the scent of his Alpha, turning his attention to where it was coming from. He did a quick once over to make sure he wasn't harmed, relieved. That meant Shanto had left.

“Daichi, please, tell me what happened after you left us.”

His ears lowered and he bowed his head in respect, giving his Alpha a short and sweet version.

“I left you two, stumbled into Icewulf, and we tried to keep Káshila subdued while we figured out a plan. Shanto activated the poison, and we had a bit of trouble. These two stumbled upon us, and offered to help,” He nosed toward the Druins. “Finally, this female came in,” -He nosed again to the wolf upon the cage, distaste clear upon his face. “And we were able to contain her, somewhat. He's trying to draw the magic from her now, as you saw.”

Hoping it was a good enough explanation, Dai waited eagerly for a reply, his orbs returning to his side, finished with controlling the vines.



OOC: Wanted to get this out, I won't be on much the rest of the week, so sorry if it's a little patchy! If you need anything changed up, I can give it some edits tomorrow when I have time!

[Adurnak]

Xiu, who was busy gnawing through a tendril of ivy that had managed to wrap around her forepaw, couldn't help but roll her eyes at the young fire-user's tone and expression when he mentioned her. What was the matter with these guys? Out of all of them, excluding the two newcomers, only the draconic male (whatever big-teal-and-fuzzy actually was) had thanked her. For that matter, he was the only one who had seemed to even acknowledge that she was trying to help! Granted, she hadn't been much help dealing with the vines, but that was only because she had been a bit preoccupied with not being turned into a living arbor by those same stupid plants.
With a final snap, the vine broke, and she spat out the remains of the offending plant before looking over at Daichi, her voice irate when she addressed him.

"Look, flame-boy, trapping her like I did was a lot quicker than what you guys were doing. Not to mention what I did was safer, more effective, and only required a bit of aggressive garden control on your part. Lose the attitude!"

Dismissing the hard-light fields that formed the cage, along with the illusion that made it look like an actual cage instead of just a see-through orange box, Xiuhcoatl dropped down next to Káshila, landing with a quiet thud. Then she turned her attention to the shadow-entity that big-teal-and-fuzzy had somehow flushed from the injured female's body, her runic markings starting to glow brighter as she trapped the apparition in another, smaller hard-light box. She figured that being surrounded by the shining energy fields would be enough to kill or destroy it, but just to be on the safe side she sent a pulse of blindingly bright light through the box, before dismissing the fields again. Turing towards Káshila, the white female looked around at the others.

"I can heal... What did you say her name was? Káshila? I have a healing spell I can use on her, but the process is... um... let's just say it can be rather painful. If anyone else here has healing powers of their own then it might be better if they heal her."

[emil]

'Come forth, and bend to my will.'

His utterance of the old language plucked a strange chord in Rykjudo's heart.

"Uzb pyod, uzb jubd..."

She murmured, the hidden larynx in her chest rumbling and cracking from years of disuse. How long had it been, that her words popped like a stuttering fire? Just to speak the old language again, even if only in meaningless exclamation, gave her a feeling so strange and satisfying.
Her small reverie gradually ebbed from her mind as she witnessed something amazing. Erebus, pulling the poison from the wolfess' veins, shadow seeping from her being as though a wound had been lanced. She fought it; Rykjudo could almost smell it, permeating the air, tingling in her bones. This violent thing, lashing and worm-like, twisting its way from the female's body, a cloud-like exhaust. The shining-scaled warrior, glinting bright in the half-moon light, fighting with more and more strength to contain it; though it seemed effortless. They had been together long enough for Rykjudo to sense that this was a greater feat than he'd made it out to be. The shadows fairly danced, her strange night-terrors began to converge in the corners of her vision, but Rykjudo found herself held under the sway of the otherworldly scene. This was Erebus' true power?

"Erebus..."

The Druiness murmured, full of something between wonder and concern. She turned not until the sound of approaching footpaws tore her from her dream world. And...

"Lose the attitude!"

Her gaze snapped back toward the unabashedly bright female, and she stepped forward, eyes narrowed to golden slits. What was this fireball, this red flower, doing in the garden of night? Profaning it, even? Her taste was bright, bright as the sun, and Rykjudo's spirit paused its eternal fluttering in momentary shock. It was not yet dawn, but here the sun had come, in its pompousness. Rykjudo was not a confrontational sort. However, when she felt the urge to speak out, she did. And now, she felt, she must, for regardless of this wolf's possible age, she acted as a child would; rushing ahead, making assumptions, and demanding praise.

"To perform deeds without knowledge of circumstance, and to expect thanks for them, is not the mark of a generous person who is deserving of such thanks. You were lucky to have not caused harm to anyone, little sun, but I would, in my stranger's arrogance, ask of you to reflect before you act... if only for the sake of others. Do you not know that heat quickens poison?"

She turned away, not the type to argue advice after dispensing it. It was up to others to do with what they would. She was far from perfect herself, but tried to keep an open mind, and trusted in others to do the same. Instead, she glanced at Erebus once more, before turning her head towards the pack wolves. She bowed, maintaining a respectful distance, but would not seek to explain herself unless addressed. The Empire, it seemed, had pressing matters to attend to. What was that strange and shadowy befoulment? Ryjudo did not envy their having to deal with the wolf that could wield a cruel and persistent power such as that.

[Mokobo]

Icewulf would tense slightly as the male druin approached and stated he would attempt to release the magic controlling poor Káshila. The elder's icy blue eyes, darted back to the female trapped within the curious cage of light. He felt an old twinge of warning rush forth from some dark recess of memory. The magic of druins could yield amazing wonders, and wreak dire havoc as well. Despite having spent years in servitude with one as brothers in arms, Icewulf had never grown used to the power some of these creatures held. Through many battles he and his fellow warrior had developed an accord and respect for one another, however there had never been any real comradery felt. At least none that had been put to voice. That druin had never known his heritage either, or of the power of the more ancient of his brethren.
Upon hearing the druin speak in that odd dialect, Icewulf's breath would catch in his throat. He stared at the pair before him as intently as they glared at one another. At first nothing seemed to happen, but the warrior wolf knew better. There was a tenseness to the air, almost as if their battle of wills was spreading out from the confines of their dueling minds. Slowly the shadow essence began to seep forth from the caged wolfess, twisting in a way that reminded Icewulf of the earthworms he had seen magpies pull from the forest turf. The image called forth an old memory, of the one who did this impaled upon a spire of stone and thousands of those tendrils escaping the wound. A shudder ran down the elder wolf's spine as Káshila collapsed to the ground in a heap. He nodded in agreement to druin's weary statement. The deed had been done, but at what cost?
Hawke could hardly contain his triumphant grin as he and Zefirino strode into the small clearing. They had arrived just in time to see the final struggle against the force controlling the young wolfess. Even better, it appeared that no one had been harmed. Yet the most satisfying sight was his old friend not only among the gathering, but right in the thick of things. Well done young one. The events of the night so far, while almost entirely unexpected, had somehow adhered to the swift plans he had formed. While there was still work yet to be done, Hawke could not help but feel himself swell with pride. He took a seat beside his alpha and put on a nonchalant air as the former questioned Daichi as to the state of affairs.
As Daichi fulfilled the request their alpha made of him, the gilded wolf allowed his hawk-like gaze to wander over to the pair of druins. While their kind were not rare among the numbers of the Imperii, the names of these two were unknown to him. It was clear that they were not of pack, and Hawke felt vaguely that he might had met the male before. Quickly the veteran would shake the feeling, as it was an all too common one for him. He had spent so many seasons studying various glyphs and runes and carvings that he was finding some started to resemble creatures he knew. After a few instances of this, and a long talk with Icewulf, Hawke had decided to dismiss these feelings as his mind simply playing games. Sometimes he used a similar trick to commit a particularly tricky piece of information to memory.
The sudden outburst from Xiu would cause Icewulf to break loose from the grip of the hated memory. He had been glaring so intently as the captured tendril of darkness that he had even failed to note the arrival of his son and alpha Zefirino along with his friend Hawke. Or perhaps he had? The elder could vaguely recall Zef addressing Daichi, who in turn gave a concise report of the events up to this point. Yet the loathing for his dearest foe had risen so abruptly at the old memory none of that could break his hated glare. Here was a piece of that vile soul, captured and thwarted in its attempt to bring yet more sorrow. After the outburst, Icewulf's gaze would shoot over to Hawke in an old battle reflex where he found his friend returning the glance. With a slight nod Icewulf would turn to face the tendril of shadow once more.
With the same swiftness in with it had been summoned, the cage of light disappeared to deposit its caster upon the ground. The former turned to the hated presence of his foe, once more trapping it in a similar snare. Icewulf took in a deep breath as he watched the shadow begin to fade before finally turning his gaze away from the bright shaft of light cast forth. When he turned to face the shadow once more it was gone. The white wolf would breath a deep sigh of relief. The nearby outsider's offer of healing reminded him there were still damage to mend. Slowly he would stride over to side of the now freed female. As he bent to inspect the severity of her wound, he listened intently to the admonishing the female druin delivered.
Seeing that there was still some tension despite the danger having been lifted, Hawke decided it was time to once more move into action. After having spent so much time in the quiet seclusion of his studies, he was remembering just how much he enjoyed a good adventure. He was full of old confidence at having achieved earlier goals, and thought to himself that this too was a situation he could direct. Quickly the golden pelted wolf would rise to all fours, bowing slightly to his alpha before turning to briskly approach the outsiders. His pace was determined and yet bounced with an almost carefree nature not befitting once his age. Once he found himself roughly in the middle of the trio, Hawke would turn to each to offer a grateful bow of his head before clearing his throat.
"As a Cordus of the Vorlfur you all have my most sincere gratitude for helping our friend and pack-mate. There is no doubt that without any of you events could most certainly have gone worse." Slowly he would raise a paw from the ground, examining the slushy mud upon his pads before casting Icewulf a mischievous grin which was repaid with a cold glare. "And while some of the efforts made here tonight may have been in vain or misguided, what truly matters is the goal was achieved, and a great wrong has been righted." Here the warm smile disappeared as Hawke would pause to offer all three an appraising gaze. "However, as you are all guests, and tonight has been quite eventful already, I must ask that the peace be kept. That being said, I leave you to my alpha, who will no doubt find you all fitting rewards." With those words the honest grin would reappear before Hawke would glance back to Zefirino, wordlessly asking if his leader approved.

[Relairah]

Throughout much of the conversation, Káshila remained unconscious, or at least vaguely so if anything. But her breathing was normal and she made no indication that she wasn't herself. Perhaps no one could be certain until she awoke and proved it, but Erebus was sure of her purity. He felt no remaining traces of the shadow within her. He was always vaguely aware of shadow about him... but in her case it had been quite specific. He managed to hide how much had truly been taken out of him drawing such a powerful force from her, but he wasn't sure how long he could manage it. He hoped he and Rkyjudo could be on their way again in a timely fashion. The sooner they reached their destination the better. It didn't concern the others. But within his gut, he had a feeling they might be delayed longer than initially intended.

Erebus looked at the one Rykjudo had called 'little sun' and felt inward amusement despite the seriousness of the situation. "You did help greatly with your cage of light and that same light that seemed to have done away with the threat. You have my gratitude as my task was easier having her in one place." He stopped as the upper ranked ones demanded attention.

Now that his focus was on something besides the young wolfess, he took in the Alpha and Cordus, as he had introduced himself. Feelings of vague familiartiy came to him, although he couldn't help wondering if it was only because of the history within not just these packlands but the surrounding territories. His long ears flicked in the direction of Daichi as he answered the Alpha, and then toward the golden-pelted one who was so carefreely taking charge. He couldn't help flashbacks of certain members of his family when he had been a much younger Druin. He dipped his head only deftly, and glanced at each of the others in the group individually. "I require nothing except to be left alone. I intend to visit what was once the Giaku Territories and I hope I will be able to do so in peace."

His blue gaze turned toward Rykjudo, waiting for her response as well. He wondered what she were thinking and if her feelings were aligned with his own or if she desired to remain longer. He supposed as travelling companions for the time being, he would be somewhat subject to whatever it was she decided to do in the situation. Erebus assumed Káshila would be safe now in the care of her packmates and freed from control.

Zefirino nodded at Daichi's explanation with a brief smile and a, "Thank you," before his gaze shifted once more toward Káshila and then his father. No doubt Icewulf had been exactly Shanto's intention in the first place with causing this whole mess. And they had sent Káshila right to him. Of course, Shanto had picked the wrong target if he had thought his daughter could defeat the aged warrior. Or perhaps it was because of age that the old fiend had thought he'd had a chance. But all of that had time to be sorted out. In particular taking measures to prevent it in the future. His brows furrowed as he focused on Icewulf. His gaze was unfocused and gone, his mind clearly focused elsewhere. A frown creased at the edges of Zefirino's lips. Yet before he had time to discern whether he should be worried, it seemed Icewulf came back to the present and was once more himself.

At that moment, Zefirino also took in what Hawke was saying and doing and couldn't help shaking his head slightly, unable to help feeling lighter at least for a moment. No matter the situation, it seemed Hawke could always provide a source of brightness and energy. His red gaze looked toward the teal-colored Druin as he spoke his intentions and followed the other's gaze to his companion, quirking a brow slightly. His gaze didn't linger long, however, as he also looked toward the bright wolfess who had mentioned something of healing for Káshila.

"Thank you, Hawke, and as our Cordus stated, much gratitude to you all who stopped to help a mate not your own in trouble. Given the severity and danger of our foe, your trespassing on pack territory is forgiven. Please, introduce yourselves at least. Káshila will be alright thanks to your efforts, as will the pack. Druins, if you wish to visit the great isle, so long as you keep the peace, you'll have no objections from me." On his words, Zefirino gave a brief nod almost as a stamp of assurance and continued his gaze around the group as partially a matter of taking each part in and partially for their responses.

[Vivid]

He suppressed a laugh and instead drew his tongue across his nose, hiding his hateful amusement. "Flame boy" was the best she could do? Daichi hadn't been a pup for many moons, and although he wasn't an elder, he was a mature adult. He regretted his decision to fight against the plants, his thoughts roaming to a different scenario where they entangled the pushy female. He held his tongue despite the urge to lash out, letting the others take control of the situation. There was no point starting a fight.

The male shifted his stance a little to get more comfortable on the sodden ground while the group all seemed to watch as the poison driven from Káshila and boxed by the female he so disliked, squinting as she pierced it with light. He listened as the others conversed after having had his alpha approve of his short explanation. Things were happening so fast before, it now seemed like everything had come to a halt. Káshila was more stable than she had been all night, and for that he was relieved and appreciative. Shanto was presumably off pack lands, and not an immediate threat to deal with, however, they did have three strangers on the land that would have to be dealt with. While none seemed to be a threat, he personally wanted the "little sun" as one of the Druins called her, to leave immediately.

He looked back over to Káshila with a neutral expression, completely ignoring the white wolf who irritated him so fiercely while he walked over, coming to lay down beside the unconscious wolf who they had all put so much effort into saving. He lay his head on his paws comfortably and let his inner flame ignite into a small inferno, warming up the still soaked and probably half frozen female, as well as the ground around them. The heat soothed the male as well, calming him and de-stressing him. It had already been a long night, and the sun wasn't due to rise for some time yet. He suppressed a yawn and let his eyes wander from one wolf to another, stopping on his alpha as he talked about what the loners were to do. The Druins appeared to be happy passing through, and quite frankly, Daichi was okay with them staying for a while. They did the most to help his companion and because of that, they were okay in his books. The other wolf however... He waited to hear her response, but briefly interrupted.

"Should we get her back home? With a little assistance, I can carry her again." He hoped no one would be too mad with him butting in, but Káshila wasn't out of the water yet - both figuratively and physically - and he didn't want her getting worse. He could only do so much to help her while they were resting upon wet muddy ground. It would also be best if she was taken care of by a healer, who knew what kind of lingering effects there were. "With a poison able to take over her mind and body, that meant Shanto could have probably affected some internal organs if he wanted to be more of a threat to her life." It was best they get her home and to a healer, but he needed help doing that.



OOC: Do do do~ Feeling like a third wheel.

[Relairah]

OoC: Awe, not at all, Vivid! *snuggles* I feel Daichi is like the stable constant :3 I'm sure Káshila will be very happy to see him when she comes to *nodnod*

Ninja-Monkey-Edit-Powers-Active: (I hijacked your OoC reply Rel since it seemed cleaner than posting my own =3) Also, Vivid, I have an idea regarding Daichi ^_^ PM me if you want minor spoilers =3

Ooo I like this idea :3 much cleaner indeed than tons of filler OoC posts. Also I got my old color back! Woo! *scuttles away*

[Adurnak]

Xiu bristled at the female Druin's admonishment, but managed to hold her tongue while first the gold-furred 'cordus' (whatever that was... A sort of rank, maybe?), and then the so-called emperor, spoke. It wasn't until Daichi incorrectly referred to the possession as a poison (again) that her patience ran out a second time.
"Oh, for the love of... She was possessed, not poisoned! Small wonder you lot weren't able to off the carrion-spawn that did this, if none of you-MMMMPH!"
Xiu suddenly stiffened, her rant cut short as her muzzle seemed to abruptly clamp shut of its own accord for a moment.

"Xiuhcoatl! Enough!"
The way the coldly beautiful voice came from both everywhere and nowhere at the same time would likely seem familiar to those in the group who were accustomed to dealing with the loner Vyrn, even though it was clearly not the shadow-mage who had spoke. Some of them might even recognize the voice itself, although this was significantly less likely. After all, it had been nearly a decade since anyone had seen or heard from Vyrn's daughter.

Xiu took a couple of steps backward, pawing at her muzzle in irritation.
"Anara, what the hell was that for? I'm right, and you know it! And keep your stupid snaky tail to yourself, you alien-eyed freak!"

"Xiuhcoatl..."
This time the voice came from a definite direction, no longer distorted as the spell hiding Anara was dismissed, and she faded into view. The being who appeared, however, was far from familiar or recognizable.

Hooking a clawed thumb through the waist-strap of one of the two sabers slung across her back, the tall, lithe, black-furred lupine humanoid looked down at the light mage. It's strange, shimmering yellow eyes, while difficult to read, seemed to express mild irritation, as did it's voice.
"...You are starting to vex me with this attitude. Leave, until such a time as you can keep a civil tongue about you."

"But-"

"Now."

"Ugh, fine."
Xiu rolled her eyes, then glanced over at Daichi, flashing another devil-may-care grin. "Later, hot stuff."

A flash of light, and she was gone, leaving Anara to heave a frustrated sigh, laying two long, taloned fingers across her muzzle.

"Fate's Blade. Were it possible for my pelt to fade, that female would have me silver by the next full moon."

[emil]

//Hey guys, I'm gonna be gone for much of this month, so I'm making my exit [and I apologize for its low quality, I am tired and leaving tomorrow]. Thanks for having me <3//

In the slight settling of affairs, Rykjudo was quickly losing things to keep her attention. She, like her companion, was quite ready to continue their foray into the lands of the new Empire, seeking the old.

"I require nothing except to be left alone. I intend to visit what was once the Giaku Territories and I hope I will be able to do so in peace."

Her companion turned to her, seeking affirmation, and she dipped her head in half-bow, half-nod. She felt that she heard a distant roar. Illusory colors threatened to cloud her senses. The Druin had learned to ignore her night terrors, but still started a bit visibly. Holding her composure, however, she spoke.

"I, too, am questing, and wish neither harm nor disturbance. The greatest boon you could bestow upon us would be that of easy passage."

Her head snapped back around, however, as the sun sputtered and spat its fire, popping with indignation. Within their midst, a creature of shadow had appeared, routing the sun's anger thoroughly. She felt no ill intent from the wolf-like being, and had not time to reflect upon its presence, anyways.

"Fate's Blade. Were it possible for my pelt to fade, that female would have me silver by the next full moon."

Rykjudo let out a chuckle at that, before turning finally to Erebus, expression speaking of a desire to move on.

[Mokobo]

A slight smile pulled at the edge of Hawke's lips as he watched Zefirino give his blessing to the request made by the male druin. He knew his alpha would have eventually, on his own accord, offered some sort of reward in recompense for their aid. Yet to the gilded elder it seemed such a boon would be more momentous if first suggested by an elder such as he. The act had many messages, the foremost being that the Alpha of the Imperii's word was final. That Zef played the part perfectly and delivered his verdict with a firm finality only caused the elder to feel even more pride in his formal pupil.
Yet the golden pelted wolf felt a certain unease as he once more surveyed the pair of druins. The lands formerly known as Giaku held deep roots, some of which went into dark caverns of history. Hawke had spent some time in the recent seasons studying various caves and catacombs within a territory once denied to him. The ancient druin language was a tongue unknown to him however, and what knowledge he had gained had been basic at best. Such a trivial barrier between hidden knowledge and himself vexed Hawke, but he had never gotten around to finding one willing to teach him the language. Eventually those excursions into Giaku had become fewer and further between. His smile faded slightly as he wondered to himself just what these two were looking for.
Despite the drain his earlier feats had taken upon his reserves of energy, Icewulf once more released a slight push of his power. As Daichi approached and began to warm Káshila the elder male focused his will on the water once more. Small tendrils of liquid would snake up from the ground, crawling up the female's frame to her open wounds. Even this simple act was causing a slight throbbing to begin within Icewulf's temples, or perhaps the late hour was simply catching up with him. Frowning slightly in concentration he would focus on washing the dirt and crusted blood from the injury. As he performed his battlefield medicine he listened to the conversations of the others, sharing Hawke's pride at his son's deft handling of the situation. Once he was satisfied that their would be no immediate risk of infection the white pelted elder would release his hold on the water, allowing it to flow back to the earth. His frown would turn into a soft smile as he finished his inspection of the poor soul. While he was not as skilled as his beloved mate, this would have to do for the time being.
Daichi's words, spoken so closely, would cause Icewulf's ears to perk before he turned his head to face the speaker. The veteran warrior would offer his reply quickly, speaking softly so as not to speak over the others. "You have done well tonight, Daichi is it? Well, seeing as how we were never properly introduced-" Here he would turn his icy blue gaze to direct a quick glare toward Hawke before once more looking upon Daichi. "-My name is Icewulf. Káshila would be dead or worse without your actions toni-" Once more the elder held his tongue as he found himself interrupted again. Yet the intruding words were abruptly muffled as yet another creature made their appearance. Icewulf frowned to himself as this newcomer revealed themselves seemingly from no where. He must truly be tired if not one but two strangers had gotten the drop on him in one night. He would watch the exchange quietly before sharing the female druin's mirth at the comedy unfolding. He knew all too well the stress a rambunctious youth could cause. Shaking his head slightly, Icewulf would turn to finish his conversation with Daichi.
Rather than waste time by watching the droll sort of drama unfolding, Hawke decided that it was time to continue the night's work. He and Zeferino had come in search of the others with a purpose in mind. Shanto's return to the lands was the looming shadow of a storm to come. The wretched soul wreaked works of havoc wherever he went, often leaving scars upon the bodies, minds and souls of his victims. They had to get to work immediately lest any delay give their foe more strength and influence to put toward his plans. With all this in mind he would approach Icewulf with a determined stride. He would lean forward to mutter in a tone that only his comrade, and perhaps Daichi, might hear. "We must rally the Vorlfur. After which you and I must talk."
With an acidic glare Icewulf would stand to his fullest height before turning to Hawke. The latter remained where he was, lifting his head to give the white wolf a nonchalant quirk of his brow. "I am no longer part of the Vorlfur, you know this, and whatever you have to say to me can wait until morning." "But Icewulf-" "But nothing, you have been playing games again Hawke." It was not so much as an accusation as a statement. Either way, Hawke would shrink backwards slightly at the scorn within the words. Knowing his friend would not let him rest before delivering his news, and as such there would be time to apologize for harsh words later, Icewulf would instead turn his attention to Daichi once more. "As I was saying, you have saved at least one life tonight, if not my own as well. I feel that the worst is over for her, but we should still bring her somewhere she can not only heal but be watched." "The Hall...would...be..." The sentence would die upon Hawke's tongue as Icewulf cast him one more commanding glance before continuing. "You were also a great help to my efforts, even if you weren't aware of it at times. I could use the help of someone like you, if you would be willing to learn?" "Ah I see, so you've given up soldiering to become a teacher, welcome to the faculty old boy!" An exasperated look would break Icewulf''s usual coldly collected demeanor as he rolled his eyes, choosing not to look at Hawke and acknowledge his friend's broad grin.

[Relairah]

Seeing that Rykjudo's thoughts were similar to his own, Erebus dipped his head slightly in respect toward the Emperor that graciously granted them passing. As he had pointed out, they were tresspassing. Perhaps all of this had happened as it had for a reason. But he didn't dwell on it. Instead, he met Rykjudo's gaze and they were off once more. He had no intention of dealing with any others than what he already had, especially as yet another was approaching. Instead, he moved on as if he'd never stopped at all.

As the Druins were departing, it seemed another decided to join the group. Though admittedly, Zefirino was inwardly somewhat relieved when whoever the light wolfess had been was sent away. Mostly because dealing with one such as she, he could tell, was taxing, as the new figure said to some degree, and it had already been a night that was far from over. But that was not what caught him the most. 'That voice.'. But it was a thought Zefirino kept to himself. There was something about this one who the other wolfess had called Anara. And yet he wasn't sure what it could be at that precise moment. Perhaps his mind was unwilling to fancy possibilities. Either way, he frowned, watching the between wolf and human figure curiously.

His ears flicked as he caught bits of the conversation between Hawke and his father, and finally moved toward them, dipping his head only slightly to observe Káshila. "I'm glad she's alright," he murmured. Once more, he glanced toward the new comer, debating whether he should carry forward given she was not a member of the pack. The entire matter was of utmost urgency, and as Hawke had mentioned, the Vorlfur needed to be summoned. Aside from the fact that clearly, the pack patrol needed to be discussed. How was it that not one, but technically seven this night had somehow managed to trespass the borders with such ease? The territory was designed to at least present somewhat of a magical barrier and safeguard. Shanto should never have made it as far as he had. He must have been biding his time and come at a precisely determined moment. Granted, they were welcoming to any that came in peace. The only explanation he could fathom was that the others had been focused on breaching a break and thus had not been as vigilant as they should have been. But he could get to the bottom of it in time.

At last, Zefirino decided it was clear this new comer did not pose a threat and she must tag along. For more reasons than the urgency of the meeting. "Hawke, I leave it to you to summon the Vorlfur. But this is something our counsel should also be a part of. And anyone else with a history in these matters." Zefirino paused, then his gaze sought to meet his father's. He hated to refer to his father as anything other than his title, but in this case, it was important he maintain his position. "Icewulf, forgive me, but Antarctica must also be summoned. Káshila will need to be brought along as well, and she can be tended to as necessary there. It is imperitive that everyone be present as quickly as possible. The matter is simply too grave. And not only because of the lives that were risked tonight." Once more, the dark and red wolf paused. "Daichi, if you wish to resume your night, you may. But if you wish to remain, please accompany us and since you offered, carry our packmate. I don't know how long Káshila will remain unconscious and I trust her in your paws."

Finally, Zef looked toward the one called Anara. What was this familiarity? Once more, he pushed it aside. "Anara," he said, pausing once more as the name flowed over his tongue, "you'll come as well. Normally, no one outside of the Vorlfur and the Counsel would be allowed. But I'm making an exception. I cannot tend to any matters at the moment other than this one. You will not share with anyone anything you learn within our borders." With that, Zefirino stepped back, a powerful howl erupting from his lips and carrying over the territory. Time was of the essence. As he lowered his head, he would wait only to see if Daichi agreed to come, if he could help with lifting Káshila to his back, or if not, to carry her himself. Afterward, he would make his way toward the Hall of the Vorlfur with haste.

[Vivid]

His bright orange eyes followed the streams of water as they cleaned the wounds of the female beside him, his head now lifted from his paws and turned slightly so he could watch properly. Icewulf was beginning to look tired, a look he recognized from earlier in the night, and Daichi felt sorry for the elder wolf. He felt like tonight was far from over, and that they all needed a good rest, something none of them would be getting any time soon.

"Yes, Daichi." He answered briefly before listening to what the other had to say, trying to pay attention to both his conversation with Icewulf, and to what his alpha and Hawke were saying, since he felt some of it may be important. Eventually, it died off to just Hawke and Icewulf bantering between each other, something Dai found quite amusing. 'They must be close friends' he thought, thinking back to when he was sent off to find Icewulf with Káshila. His ears pulled back as a new presence entered the clearing, and with it speaking like it knew the 'little sun' Dai found himself already disliking the new canine. First impressions were hard to shake on the male, especially when one was associated with someone so obnoxious. He snorted at the hot stuff comment but kept his cool, not letting anything show upon his face despite how irritated he immediately felt, once again listening to the elder in front of him as he remained beside the unconscious female, still keeping her warm and trying to dry her, and himself, considering he got splashed earlier as well. For a brief moment, he wondered how Icewulf was faring, since he had to still be quite wet as well.

"I agree, we need to get her out of here. We're all tired and stressed, it's best to get back to the rest of the pack and get things dealt with." He looked back over to Káshila, worry clear on his features. 'She's not out of the water yet, she needs proper medical care to ensure she doesn't get worse.' His head tilted and he looked to Hawke as he spoke, watching the interaction between the two. What was with these two?

"I-I don't think I did all that much, honestly.. I did what was told of me. To find you, keep her safe, and to give you help if needed." Had he not been a fire element, Dai surely would have been feeling warm right now with embarrassment, being praised by such a wolf. "I feel that would be a great honor though!" He was excited at the prospect, despite not knowing exactly what it entailed, and at the same time, he felt a familiar sinking in his stomach, the one he felt every time he used his magic. The last time anyone had taken him under their wing.... Dai shuddered inwardly. He wouldn't let such an accident happen again. He couldn't. Even if it meant long hours of working on his magic to get it under control, he'd do it. He wasn't going to hurt his new family, especially not with his cursed magic. With new resolve, Daichi felt a little better about the situation. A little, anyway. He watched as his alpha came over to check on Káshila and nodded quietly to his words, listening to the rest of what Zefirino had to say to everyone, including himself.

"I'll come along, I'd prefer to see that she's been looked after." His answer was honest and polite, and if Zef wanted Dai there for more than bringing Káshila to safety, he'd hang around for that as well. It seemed important enough, and he felt very involved, interested in what would happen with the pack, and curious to see this "Vorlfur" they were talking about, as he hadn't seen them in action yet. With that, Daichi stood up and shook off, looking exasperatedly at Káshila, wondering just how he'd go about getting her on his back now. With a quick snap of brilliance, Daichi used his shifting abilities to become a long python-like snake, slithering himself under the female, then shifting into his lion form, the female sprawled across his back if things worked as smoothly as he hoped. While he could probably carry her as a wolf, Káshila was quite a bit larger than himself being a demon wolf compared to his maned wolf, and while her weight was no problem, he figured it was better if she wasn't dragging her paws along the ground. And a bonus, the lions broader back was easier to carry her on anyway.

If everything was settled, and if Káshila was on his back, he'd look to his alpha for directions, his long slender tail slowly swaying.

OOC: This.. Became a lot more than I had started with. I'm about to take a nap, I'm beat, so sorry if anything seems weird. I only half proof read and stuff, sorry. xP

[Relairah]

OoC: Lol! Vivid, I just thought I'd let you know that while Káshila does have demonic blood in her heritage and is a few inches taller than Dai, she's not that much bigger. She's not particularly bulky, in fact, she's somewhat slender. She's just fluffy XD Hahaha you keep referencing her size difference and I keep imagining she's somewhat dwarfing him on his back lololol