The Wild Series: Reign of Ashes (Main Page/Pridelands)

Wildwing wrote:Dusk was fading into black by the time the crimson-eyed she-wolf re-entered the remains of Snow Wolf camp. Rose-or rather, Lupa-licked the last of her meal from her maw as she padded towards the scorched den.

While out hunting during the day, she had taken time to explore the territory immediately surrounding camp. The forest was a black skeleton. The foliage was thin, not enough to cover her form as she stalked prey. It was a miracle she had caught anything at all. But, even though the territory was a wreck, hope took form of the small patched of green that poked through ash and dirt. One day, this region would be the beauty it once was, if left alone. It could possibly become even more, if some took the time to nurture it.

Having found nothing else remarkable, the white and gray she-wolf sat in front of the den and waited.

... "You're back!" 

Pike's voice was faint, mixed among the wind and rustling of trees as twilight began to descend upon the ruined camp. As the daylight faded and the stars began to glow, an ever-so-light shimmer formed a few feet from where Rose waited. An outline, resembling the edges of the head and shoulders of the wolf who spoke wisped in the night air. There was enough of him to make out a form, but not any real facial features. 

"What did you find?"

Jaystep wrote:

DwelleroftheEarth wrote:Manik nodded. "I agree." He ignored the amused sparkle in the raven's eyes, and shifted into a more comfortable position on the branch, ready to listen to the plan.

Archeus paused for a moment to be sure on his thoughts. "Then these are the terms I offer. Negotiation is considered, but I make no promises on how much I'll be swayed.... If you are in agreement, I offer the following. Four shipments of thirty pairs of pure silver battle-talons to be distributed once on each new moon beginning with the new moon tomorrow night. Two barrels of raw silver ore to be melted and molded as you see fit, these will be given tomorrow night as well. Additionally, I will supply you with a camouflage device for your camp. This device I would give you now, for the discreetness of your camp and my involvement are paramount to our success. It is a small contraption, but one of immense power. Once activated it will create the illusion from afar that your camp is simply an empty meadow. It is not a solid wall, but rather alike a sturdy mirage. It will cover a distance up to four hundred feet in multiple directions. I also offer a shipment to books detailing the history the Phoenix Guard. These volumes will give you further insight to the potential weaknesses of our mutual foe. Also... I am prepared to supply you with the location of the Phoenix's former base of operations, and information regarding a few still living Phoenix with ties to the Council's Royal Family. This information will come with a heftier price, and will be given to you much later, once I am satisfied with the progress of your movement. In return for these offerings, I would ask something of you in return. I ask for protection, a detachment of your soldiers, no less than six to use as I see fit... and I ask for the permission to dictate your targets in terms of where and when you strike at the enemy, until such time as I am convinced on your judgement."

The falcon was silent for a long moment. "These terms seem reasonable...enough. A few small things, however, I would like to...discuss. Number one...I definitely value you as an ally. I will, as you see fit, accept your directions in targeting. I can see that your knowledge of the Phoenix will be extremely helpful. Secondly, I ask to choose which of my soldiers I give to you. Only for this reason: I know my own soldiers, and I feel that I would be able to choose them well to suit your needs." Manik spoke concisely yet somewhat slowly, choosing his words carefully. He did not wish to anger Archeus.

Jaystep wrote:

Wildwing wrote:Dusk was fading into black by the time the crimson-eyed she-wolf re-entered the remains of Snow Wolf camp. Rose-or rather, Lupa-licked the last of her meal from her maw as she padded towards the scorched den.

While out hunting during the day, she had taken time to explore the territory immediately surrounding camp. The forest was a black skeleton. The foliage was thin, not enough to cover her form as she stalked prey. It was a miracle she had caught anything at all. But, even though the territory was a wreck, hope took form of the small patched of green that poked through ash and dirt. One day, this region would be the beauty it once was, if left alone. It could possibly become even more, if some took the time to nurture it.

Having found nothing else remarkable, the white and gray she-wolf sat in front of the den and waited.

... "You're back!" 

Pike's voice was faint, mixed among the wind and rustling of trees as twilight began to descend upon the ruined camp. As the daylight faded and the stars began to glow, an ever-so-light shimmer formed a few feet from where Rose waited. An outline, resembling the edges of the head and shoulders of the wolf who spoke wisped in the night air. There was enough of him to make out a form, but not any real facial features. 

"What did you find?"

Lupa looked over her shoulder with a cheerful smile on her face.

"A decent sized pheasant," she replied as she turned to face the outline, "It saw me coming, but it's wing was broken. It really was a miracle I came across it."

Wildwing wrote:

Jaystep wrote:

Wildwing wrote:Dusk was fading into black by the time the crimson-eyed she-wolf re-entered the remains of Snow Wolf camp. Rose-or rather, Lupa-licked the last of her meal from her maw as she padded towards the scorched den.

While out hunting during the day, she had taken time to explore the territory immediately surrounding camp. The forest was a black skeleton. The foliage was thin, not enough to cover her form as she stalked prey. It was a miracle she had caught anything at all. But, even though the territory was a wreck, hope took form of the small patched of green that poked through ash and dirt. One day, this region would be the beauty it once was, if left alone. It could possibly become even more, if some took the time to nurture it.

Having found nothing else remarkable, the white and gray she-wolf sat in front of the den and waited.

... "You're back!" 

Pike's voice was faint, mixed among the wind and rustling of trees as twilight began to descend upon the ruined camp. As the daylight faded and the stars began to glow, an ever-so-light shimmer formed a few feet from where Rose waited. An outline, resembling the edges of the head and shoulders of the wolf who spoke wisped in the night air. There was enough of him to make out a form, but not any real facial features. 

"What did you find?"

Lupa looked over her shoulder with a cheerful smile on her face.

"A decent sized pheasant," she replied as she turned to face the outline, "It saw me coming, but it's wing was broken. It really was a miracle I came across it."

"... I miss the taste of prey."

The disembodied outline of Pike looked down at the bird, trying to sniff at it on instinct. He paused when he caught no air, and disappeared again. 

"Will you tell me more about you? Talking with you feels like ... a pull. I feel stronger when you're around."

Jaystep wrote:

Wildwing wrote:

Jaystep wrote:

Wildwing wrote:Dusk was fading into black by the time the crimson-eyed she-wolf re-entered the remains of Snow Wolf camp. Rose-or rather, Lupa-licked the last of her meal from her maw as she padded towards the scorched den.

While out hunting during the day, she had taken time to explore the territory immediately surrounding camp. The forest was a black skeleton. The foliage was thin, not enough to cover her form as she stalked prey. It was a miracle she had caught anything at all. But, even though the territory was a wreck, hope took form of the small patched of green that poked through ash and dirt. One day, this region would be the beauty it once was, if left alone. It could possibly become even more, if some took the time to nurture it.

Having found nothing else remarkable, the white and gray she-wolf sat in front of the den and waited.

... "You're back!" 

Pike's voice was faint, mixed among the wind and rustling of trees as twilight began to descend upon the ruined camp. As the daylight faded and the stars began to glow, an ever-so-light shimmer formed a few feet from where Rose waited. An outline, resembling the edges of the head and shoulders of the wolf who spoke wisped in the night air. There was enough of him to make out a form, but not any real facial features. 

"What did you find?"

Lupa looked over her shoulder with a cheerful smile on her face.

"A decent sized pheasant," she replied as she turned to face the outline, "It saw me coming, but it's wing was broken. It really was a miracle I came across it."

"... I miss the taste of prey."

The disembodied outline of Pike looked down at the bird, trying to sniff at it on instinct. He paused when he caught no air, and disappeared again. 

"Will you tell me more about you? Talking with you feels like ... a pull. I feel stronger when you're around."

Lupa looked at the ghostly form in pity, watching as he went through the motions of sniffing at it. Then, hearing his question, she smiled in amusement.

"About myself? That is a general topic as I've existed in this world for thousands of years." She laid down and shifted on the ground until she was in a comfortable position, and then smiled once again in the direction of the voice. "Hmm... I guess I'll start by introducing myself. I was present when Rose told you about me, but this is the first time you and I have actually spoken. Funny how that worked! Anyway, I'm Lupa. I am the being that has been bonded with Rose's soul this whole time. I've been around for about 10,000 years, existing by bonding with souls compatible to me and living their lives with them. First few hundreds of years, my hostesses and I spent by helping animals and making sure the world was fit for their survival. Then I just hung around after that, waiting for something massively world changing to happen again. And look, it has!"
She let out a few joyful laughs. And then she stopped and looked in Pike's direction for a solid minute.

"...But not without horrible consequences."

Wildwing wrote:

Jaystep wrote:

Wildwing wrote:

Jaystep wrote:

Wildwing wrote:Dusk was fading into black by the time the crimson-eyed she-wolf re-entered the remains of Snow Wolf camp. Rose-or rather, Lupa-licked the last of her meal from her maw as she padded towards the scorched den.

While out hunting during the day, she had taken time to explore the territory immediately surrounding camp. The forest was a black skeleton. The foliage was thin, not enough to cover her form as she stalked prey. It was a miracle she had caught anything at all. But, even though the territory was a wreck, hope took form of the small patched of green that poked through ash and dirt. One day, this region would be the beauty it once was, if left alone. It could possibly become even more, if some took the time to nurture it.

Having found nothing else remarkable, the white and gray she-wolf sat in front of the den and waited.

... "You're back!" 

Pike's voice was faint, mixed among the wind and rustling of trees as twilight began to descend upon the ruined camp. As the daylight faded and the stars began to glow, an ever-so-light shimmer formed a few feet from where Rose waited. An outline, resembling the edges of the head and shoulders of the wolf who spoke wisped in the night air. There was enough of him to make out a form, but not any real facial features. 

"What did you find?"

Lupa looked over her shoulder with a cheerful smile on her face.

"A decent sized pheasant," she replied as she turned to face the outline, "It saw me coming, but it's wing was broken. It really was a miracle I came across it."

"... I miss the taste of prey."

The disembodied outline of Pike looked down at the bird, trying to sniff at it on instinct. He paused when he caught no air, and disappeared again. 

"Will you tell me more about you? Talking with you feels like ... a pull. I feel stronger when you're around."

Lupa looked at the ghostly form in pity, watching as he went through the motions of sniffing at it. Then, hearing his question, she smiled in amusement.

"About myself? That is a general topic as I've existed in this world for thousands of years." She laid down and shifted on the ground until she was in a comfortable position, and then smiled once again in the direction of the voice. "Hmm... I guess I'll start by introducing myself. I was present when Rose told you about me, but this is the first time you and I have actually spoken. Funny how that worked! Anyway, I'm Lupa. I am the being that has been bonded with Rose's soul this whole time. I've been around for about 10,000 years, existing by bonding with souls compatible to me and living their lives with them. First few hundreds of years, my hostesses and I spent by helping animals and making sure the world was fit for their survival. Then I just hung around after that, waiting for something massively world changing to happen again. And look, it has!"
She let out a few joyful laughs. And then she stopped and looked in Pike's direction for a solid minute.

"...But not without horrible consequences."

The outline reformed again a few feet behind Lupa, padding without sound across the treeline. "World changing? What's... what's happened? I only know this camp... I don't think I can leave."

Jaystep wrote:

Wildwing wrote:

Jaystep wrote:

Wildwing wrote:

Jaystep wrote:

Wildwing wrote:Dusk was fading into black by the time the crimson-eyed she-wolf re-entered the remains of Snow Wolf camp. Rose-or rather, Lupa-licked the last of her meal from her maw as she padded towards the scorched den.

While out hunting during the day, she had taken time to explore the territory immediately surrounding camp. The forest was a black skeleton. The foliage was thin, not enough to cover her form as she stalked prey. It was a miracle she had caught anything at all. But, even though the territory was a wreck, hope took form of the small patched of green that poked through ash and dirt. One day, this region would be the beauty it once was, if left alone. It could possibly become even more, if some took the time to nurture it.

Having found nothing else remarkable, the white and gray she-wolf sat in front of the den and waited.

... "You're back!" 

Pike's voice was faint, mixed among the wind and rustling of trees as twilight began to descend upon the ruined camp. As the daylight faded and the stars began to glow, an ever-so-light shimmer formed a few feet from where Rose waited. An outline, resembling the edges of the head and shoulders of the wolf who spoke wisped in the night air. There was enough of him to make out a form, but not any real facial features. 

"What did you find?"

Lupa looked over her shoulder with a cheerful smile on her face.

"A decent sized pheasant," she replied as she turned to face the outline, "It saw me coming, but it's wing was broken. It really was a miracle I came across it."

"... I miss the taste of prey."

The disembodied outline of Pike looked down at the bird, trying to sniff at it on instinct. He paused when he caught no air, and disappeared again. 

"Will you tell me more about you? Talking with you feels like ... a pull. I feel stronger when you're around."

Lupa looked at the ghostly form in pity, watching as he went through the motions of sniffing at it. Then, hearing his question, she smiled in amusement.

"About myself? That is a general topic as I've existed in this world for thousands of years." She laid down and shifted on the ground until she was in a comfortable position, and then smiled once again in the direction of the voice. "Hmm... I guess I'll start by introducing myself. I was present when Rose told you about me, but this is the first time you and I have actually spoken. Funny how that worked! Anyway, I'm Lupa. I am the being that has been bonded with Rose's soul this whole time. I've been around for about 10,000 years, existing by bonding with souls compatible to me and living their lives with them. First few hundreds of years, my hostesses and I spent by helping animals and making sure the world was fit for their survival. Then I just hung around after that, waiting for something massively world changing to happen again. And look, it has!"
She let out a few joyful laughs. And then she stopped and looked in Pike's direction for a solid minute.

"...But not without horrible consequences."

The outline reformed again a few feet behind Lupa, padding without sound across the treeline. "World changing? What's... what's happened? I only know this camp... I don't think I can leave."

Lupa turned around and watched Pike's outline with a forlorn look in her eyes. She took some time to think before speaking again.

"I was only able to have glimpses of events that took place during these past three years. I do not know everything that happened. That being said, the day your pack was destroyed by the Dark Phoenix, Zarrock, a new and powerful force entered this world. A lone dragon, with an army of creatures infected by dark magic, destroyed The Council, killed King Tyrin and drove Queen Rinka East. Half the land is now under this dragon's rule, opposed only by the Queen and those she has rallied. At least, that's what I gather."

DwelleroftheEarth wrote:

Jaystep wrote:

DwelleroftheEarth wrote:Manik nodded. "I agree." He ignored the amused sparkle in the raven's eyes, and shifted into a more comfortable position on the branch, ready to listen to the plan.

Archeus paused for a moment to be sure on his thoughts. "Then these are the terms I offer. Negotiation is considered, but I make no promises on how much I'll be swayed.... If you are in agreement, I offer the following. Four shipments of thirty pairs of pure silver battle-talons to be distributed once on each new moon beginning with the new moon tomorrow night. Two barrels of raw silver ore to be melted and molded as you see fit, these will be given tomorrow night as well. Additionally, I will supply you with a camouflage device for your camp. This device I would give you now, for the discreetness of your camp and my involvement are paramount to our success. It is a small contraption, but one of immense power. Once activated it will create the illusion from afar that your camp is simply an empty meadow. It is not a solid wall, but rather alike a sturdy mirage. It will cover a distance up to four hundred feet in multiple directions. I also offer a shipment to books detailing the history the Phoenix Guard. These volumes will give you further insight to the potential weaknesses of our mutual foe. Also... I am prepared to supply you with the location of the Phoenix's former base of operations, and information regarding a few still living Phoenix with ties to the Council's Royal Family. This information will come with a heftier price, and will be given to you much later, once I am satisfied with the progress of your movement. In return for these offerings, I would ask something of you in return. I ask for protection, a detachment of your soldiers, no less than six to use as I see fit... and I ask for the permission to dictate your targets in terms of where and when you strike at the enemy, until such time as I am convinced on your judgement."

The falcon was silent for a long moment. "These terms seem reasonable...enough. A few small things, however, I would like to...discuss. Number one...I definitely value you as an ally. I will, as you see fit, accept your directions in targeting. I can see that your knowledge of the Phoenix will be extremely helpful. Secondly, I ask to choose which of my soldiers I give to you. Only for this reason: I know my own soldiers, and I feel that I would be able to choose them well to suit your needs." Manik spoke concisely yet somewhat slowly, choosing his words carefully. He did not wish to anger Archeus.

[@Jaystep So whenever you get a chance [NO RUSH!] Where do we want to go with this scene, involve Silver...or...?]

(Yeah, I wanted to wait for Silver.  )

Wildwing wrote:

Jaystep wrote:

Wildwing wrote:

Jaystep wrote:

Wildwing wrote:

Jaystep wrote:

Wildwing wrote:Dusk was fading into black by the time the crimson-eyed she-wolf re-entered the remains of Snow Wolf camp. Rose-or rather, Lupa-licked the last of her meal from her maw as she padded towards the scorched den.

While out hunting during the day, she had taken time to explore the territory immediately surrounding camp. The forest was a black skeleton. The foliage was thin, not enough to cover her form as she stalked prey. It was a miracle she had caught anything at all. But, even though the territory was a wreck, hope took form of the small patched of green that poked through ash and dirt. One day, this region would be the beauty it once was, if left alone. It could possibly become even more, if some took the time to nurture it.

Having found nothing else remarkable, the white and gray she-wolf sat in front of the den and waited.

... "You're back!" 

Pike's voice was faint, mixed among the wind and rustling of trees as twilight began to descend upon the ruined camp. As the daylight faded and the stars began to glow, an ever-so-light shimmer formed a few feet from where Rose waited. An outline, resembling the edges of the head and shoulders of the wolf who spoke wisped in the night air. There was enough of him to make out a form, but not any real facial features. 

"What did you find?"

Lupa looked over her shoulder with a cheerful smile on her face.

"A decent sized pheasant," she replied as she turned to face the outline, "It saw me coming, but it's wing was broken. It really was a miracle I came across it."

"... I miss the taste of prey."

The disembodied outline of Pike looked down at the bird, trying to sniff at it on instinct. He paused when he caught no air, and disappeared again. 

"Will you tell me more about you? Talking with you feels like ... a pull. I feel stronger when you're around."

Lupa looked at the ghostly form in pity, watching as he went through the motions of sniffing at it. Then, hearing his question, she smiled in amusement.

"About myself? That is a general topic as I've existed in this world for thousands of years." She laid down and shifted on the ground until she was in a comfortable position, and then smiled once again in the direction of the voice. "Hmm... I guess I'll start by introducing myself. I was present when Rose told you about me, but this is the first time you and I have actually spoken. Funny how that worked! Anyway, I'm Lupa. I am the being that has been bonded with Rose's soul this whole time. I've been around for about 10,000 years, existing by bonding with souls compatible to me and living their lives with them. First few hundreds of years, my hostesses and I spent by helping animals and making sure the world was fit for their survival. Then I just hung around after that, waiting for something massively world changing to happen again. And look, it has!"
She let out a few joyful laughs. And then she stopped and looked in Pike's direction for a solid minute.

"...But not without horrible consequences."

The outline reformed again a few feet behind Lupa, padding without sound across the treeline. "World changing? What's... what's happened? I only know this camp... I don't think I can leave."

Lupa turned around and watched Pike's outline with a forlorn look in her eyes. She took some time to think before speaking again.

"I was only able to have glimpses of events that took place during these past three years. I do not know everything that happened. That being said, the day your pack was destroyed by the Dark Phoenix, Zarrock, a new and powerful force entered this world. A lone dragon, with an army of creatures infected by dark magic, destroyed The Council, killed King Tyrin and drove Queen Rinka East. Half the land is now under this dragon's rule, opposed only by the Queen and those she has rallied. At least, that's what I gather."

Pike's outline disappeared, but his influence did not. The cloud of consciousness sparked up with an air of amusement, a faintly audible laughing sound coming from the spot his outline had been. 

"What?! Dragons- the Council- that's crazy! You're funny, but... I find that really hard to believe."

"Oh?" Lupa sounded, her own maw pulling back in amusement, "Care to explain why?"

As the moon began it's journey up the night sky, the wind began to pick up. Her white and gray fur kept the She-Wolf warm, but she could still feel the coolness of the wind as it moved across her pelt. She could hear the sound of branches moving against each other, but she heard nothing else. It was as if this territory was truly void of life, besides her own.

Wildwing wrote:"Oh?" Lupa sounded, her own maw pulling back in amusement, "Care to explain why?"

As the moon began it's journey up the night sky, the wind began to pick up. Her white and gray fur kept the She-Wolf warm, but she could still feel the coolness of the wind as it moved across her pelt. She could hear the sound of branches moving against each other, but she heard nothing else. It was as if this territory was truly void of life, besides her own.

"Well, it's just so ... I mean Drellan, Najmah, Jury ... they would never let that happen." 

Pike's consciousness formed into view for another split second, the wolf turning around and walking a few feet before fading again, pacing in another world.

"... Where are they?"

Jaystep wrote:

Wildwing wrote:"Oh?" Lupa sounded, her own maw pulling back in amusement, "Care to explain why?"

As the moon began it's journey up the night sky, the wind began to pick up. Her white and gray fur kept the She-Wolf warm, but she could still feel the coolness of the wind as it moved across her pelt. She could hear the sound of branches moving against each other, but she heard nothing else. It was as if this territory was truly void of life, besides her own.

"Well, it's just so ... I mean Drellan, Najmah, Jury ... they would never let that happen." 

Pike's consciousness formed into view for another split second, the wolf turning around and walking a few feet before fading again, pacing in another world.

"... Where are they?"

The smile Lupa had faded. She heard the faith in the spirit's voice, unbroken even after death.

"To be honest, I'm not sure," she replied, "All three of them were with us-Rose and I-and we were supposed to get sent back together. But we must have gotten separated when we went through The Rifts. I found no sign of them while I was hunting earlier."

Raiya never broke pace as the others began to tag along, she glanced back on occasion to be sure the cat and bear were still behind her. Nearly an hour of straight running was starting to ache at her paws, but she would gladly keep going until they fell off if it meant catching up to Moonpelt's captors. The young wolf ducked to slide under a large fallen tree in her path, accidentally scraping her back across the rough bark as she slid under. She cursed herself under breath and shook her head, furious tears beginning to brim in her eyes as she sped back up.

"Geez, that grizzly sure was loud."

In the center of the animals who had exited their dens to see what the roaring was about, Kodi, a middle-aged wolf watched Raiya and Thalak run out of the city with an amused expression on his face.

"And there they go."

"Darling?"

Kodi turned to his worried mate. With a somewhat exasperated grin, he shrugged before turning and bounding up a pile of fossilized human den remains. After getting the muttering group's attention with a howl, he rallied them with a short speech.

"It seems the star fighter of our community has run off on her own. Again. Well, with Thalak this time."

He waited a moment for the sighs and worried murmurs to die down before continuing in a serious tone.

"We all heard the situation, but to reiterate, Moonpelt has been abducted by shades. Meaning he's still alive, which is what Raiya is counting on. Knowing our little hero, she will not stop until her uncle is safe again, and she will not hesitate to take on the shades despite being outnumbered. Even with Thalak on her side, the chances that they'll rescue Moonpelt and make it back alive... Well, it's risky. So let's take it upon ourselves to make sure they all return in one piece! Let's follow our little hero into battle and save one of our own from the enemy before it's too late? Who's with me!"

Hearing the cheers from many (but also seeing some go back in their dens), Kodi jumped from the pile and landed beside his mate. He touched noses with her after a quick exchange of tender words, and then left with her staying to watch over their pups.

"Everyone, with me!" he barked. As he led the small army at a swift army, he called for a couple birds to come up front.

"I need you to send a message to the queen. Tell her Moonpelt has been kidnapped, Raiya is going after him, and a good number of animals from our region are following her," he told a hawk. And to the falcon, "Catch up with Raiya and tell her we're on our way. Then stick with her, but fly where we can see you so we don't waste time checking to make sure we're on the right trail. Safe travels, both of you."

---

Kodi had kept his comrades at a fast pace, but not so fast that they'd be dropping dead by the time they reached Raiya. They'd caught up to her about half an hour ago, though with her in the lead by at least a meter. Thalak had fallen behind, but was still just ahead of the small army.
Seeing Raiya scrape her back, Kodi barked an order for the army to split and led half the animals around the left side of the fallen tree. As they all regrouped on the other side, Kodi chased ahead and matched his pace to Raiya's as he reached her side.
"Are you okay?"

Wildwing wrote:"Geez, that grizzly sure was loud."

In the center of the animals who had exited their dens to see what the roaring was about, Kodi, a middle-aged wolf watched Raiya and Thalak run out of the city with an amused expression on his face.

"And there they go."

"Darling?"

Kodi turned to his worried mate. With a somewhat exasperated grin, he shrugged before turning and bounding up a pile of fossilized human den remains. After getting the muttering group's attention with a howl, he rallied them with a short speech.

"It seems the star fighter of our community has run off on her own. Again. Well, with Thalak this time."

He waited a moment for the sighs and worried murmurs to die down before continuing in a serious tone.

"We all heard the situation, but to reiterate, Moonpelt has been abducted by shades. Meaning he's still alive, which is what Raiya is counting on. Knowing our little hero, she will not stop until her uncle is safe again, and she will not hesitate to take on the shades despite being outnumbered. Even with Thalak on her side, the chances that they'll rescue Moonpelt and make it back alive... Well, it's risky. So let's take it upon ourselves to make sure they all return in one piece! Let's follow our little hero into battle and save one of our own from the enemy before it's too late? Who's with me!"

Hearing the cheers from many (but also seeing some go back in their dens), Kodi jumped from the pile and landed beside his mate. He touched noses with her after a quick exchange of tender words, and then left with her staying to watch over their pups.

"Everyone, with me!" he barked. As he led the small army at a swift army, he called for a couple birds to come up front.

"I need you to send a message to the queen. Tell her Moonpelt has been kidnapped, Raiya is going after him, and a good number of animals from our region are following her," he told a hawk. And to the falcon, "Catch up with Raiya and tell her we're on our way. Then stick with her, but fly where we can see you so we don't waste time checking to make sure we're on the right trail. Safe travels, both of you."

---

Kodi had kept his comrades at a fast pace, but not so fast that they'd be dropping dead by the time they reached Raiya. They'd caught up to her about half an hour ago, though with her in the lead by at least a meter. Thalak had fallen behind, but was still just ahead of the small army.
Seeing Raiya scrape her back, Kodi barked an order for the army to split and led half the animals around the left side of the fallen tree. As they all regrouped on the other side, Kodi chased ahead and matched his pace to Raiya's as he reached her side.
"Are you okay?"

"Fine." Raiya snapped, regretting it an instant later but saying nothing to show it apart from flicking her ears. She sniffed at the air for the tenth time in a minute, insuring they were still on track. The aching in her paws worsened after she had twisted them getting back on pace after the tree, and she inadvertantly began to slow, sparking anger in her eyes.

Jaystep wrote:

Wildwing wrote:"Geez, that grizzly sure was loud."

In the center of the animals who had exited their dens to see what the roaring was about, Kodi, a middle-aged wolf watched Raiya and Thalak run out of the city with an amused expression on his face.

"And there they go."

"Darling?"

Kodi turned to his worried mate. With a somewhat exasperated grin, he shrugged before turning and bounding up a pile of fossilized human den remains. After getting the muttering group's attention with a howl, he rallied them with a short speech.

"It seems the star fighter of our community has run off on her own. Again. Well, with Thalak this time."

He waited a moment for the sighs and worried murmurs to die down before continuing in a serious tone.

"We all heard the situation, but to reiterate, Moonpelt has been abducted by shades. Meaning he's still alive, which is what Raiya is counting on. Knowing our little hero, she will not stop until her uncle is safe again, and she will not hesitate to take on the shades despite being outnumbered. Even with Thalak on her side, the chances that they'll rescue Moonpelt and make it back alive... Well, it's risky. So let's take it upon ourselves to make sure they all return in one piece! Let's follow our little hero into battle and save one of our own from the enemy before it's too late? Who's with me!"

Hearing the cheers from many (but also seeing some go back in their dens), Kodi jumped from the pile and landed beside his mate. He touched noses with her after a quick exchange of tender words, and then left with her staying to watch over their pups.

"Everyone, with me!" he barked. As he led the small army at a swift army, he called for a couple birds to come up front.

"I need you to send a message to the queen. Tell her Moonpelt has been kidnapped, Raiya is going after him, and a good number of animals from our region are following her," he told a hawk. And to the falcon, "Catch up with Raiya and tell her we're on our way. Then stick with her, but fly where we can see you so we don't waste time checking to make sure we're on the right trail. Safe travels, both of you."

---

Kodi had kept his comrades at a fast pace, but not so fast that they'd be dropping dead by the time they reached Raiya. They'd caught up to her about half an hour ago, though with her in the lead by at least a meter. Thalak had fallen behind, but was still just ahead of the small army.
Seeing Raiya scrape her back, Kodi barked an order for the army to split and led half the animals around the left side of the fallen tree. As they all regrouped on the other side, Kodi chased ahead and matched his pace to Raiya's as he reached her side.
"Are you okay?"

"Fine." Raiya snapped, regretting it an instant later but saying nothing to show it apart from flicking her ears. She sniffed at the air for the tenth time in a minute, insuring they were still on track. The aching in her paws worsened after she had twisted them getting back on pace after the tree, and she inadvertently began to slow, sparking anger in her eyes.

Kodi honestly was not offended by the snap. He was surprised as it was a sudden and sharp response to his question, but he took it as a sign of her pain.
He noticed he was starting to pull ahead of Raiya even though he was keeping a steady pace. He glanced back to see that the expression she wore was that of someone who was angry with herself. At least, that's what he was picking up from a moment's glance. He knew she wasn't tired, because wolves were built for tireless long distance running, and she didn't seem tired. So was it her back that was slowing her down? Had she really scraped it that bad?

As he was thinking this, he noticed a bird up ahead flying their way. He recognized this bird as one of the ones he had sent to locate Moonpelt and his captors.
"Have you found them?" he asked as it flew to his side.

(Jay, or Ruki since you haven't had the chance to RP in a while. Would you like to RP the bird to give the group an update on Moonpelt's status?)

[Insert my reason for this post here]

Vix slowly took in all the information as Queen Rinka spoke. As she finished, the young peregrine falcon spoke up, intrigue on her face. "My Queen, if I may inquire, what are we to do when these birds are spotted?" the falcon was interested mainly because she was ready for some action. that was why she had volunteered to go on this mission. she was not after blood though, it was up to her superiors to decide who was to live and die, i.e. who was an enemy of the Queen.

[See joining for Vix's character sheet which I am typing up directly after this  ]

(I like it!)

"It is likely that they will try to flee if they see us approaching all at once," the Queen began, grateful for the question, "They have just escaped The Spire and will most definitely be expecting Agathar's forces to be searching for them. Once they have been spotted, the majority of you will wait at a distance while I and a select few will meet them. Syrune and I know each other, so as long as she recognizes me, there should be no problems. At my signal, we will regroup and escort Syrune's group back here. Until then, you will be watching for suspicious activity. Alert each other and me if you spot anything heading for Syrune, and defend her as well as the two falhawks with her. If the situation changes, please listen to my commands."

As soon as Rinka had finished, a lone and imposing Osprey glides deftly over to her side, the bird breaking his tough composure with a bow of his beak in respect to the Queen. "My Queen, Kodi has notified me that moonpelt has been kidnapped, and that he has formally dispatched a group of other animals from his region to follow Raiya as they are in pursuit." 
 Ki'thune promptly backed away to give Rinka room, still partially turned away from the crowd to let her have a proper moment of response to Kodi's message.

As she had been finishing her speech, Rinka saw the Osprey coming, and looked behind him to see a guard perched at the perimeter signalling that he had clearance to approach. The Queen nodded her permission for the Osprey to land beside her. She leaned in to listen, and stiffened in a moment of panic when she heard the message.

Moonpelt was kidnapped?!


The Queen quickly regained her composure with a deep breath. She straightened up and looked calmly to the Osprey.

"Do you know who kidnapped him, and where they are headed?" she asked quietly.

____

"What's going on?" a mottled black and brown hawk near Vix muttered under his breath.
Other birds in the small group shifted uneasily as they watched their Queen, figuring she'd received unpleasant news.


(Moonpelt was kidnapped directly west of Raiya's region near Western Ridge. You can have Ki'thune say that, or do something like "Ki'thune told Rinka which direction Raiya and Kodi ran in", or anything else he might say)

"I know that he was kidnapped directly west of Raiya's region near western ridge, my Queen. He rather urgently sent me here to tell you all of this.." Ki'thune held a stoic composure as he notified Rinka of the situation, his sharp hazel eyes gazing over the group of birds before continuing to give her a rapport on the rest of what Kodi desires for him to say to her.
   "Do you want me to try and send a message back?"

The Queen grit her beak as she listened to the rest of Ki'thune's report. She took a moment to think, and then shook her head at the Osprey's question.
"That won't be necessary," she replied before turning back to her assembled team.
"Soldiers, our mission is delayed for a short time," the Queen announced, "A white wolf by the name of Moonpelt has been abducted by three wolf shades, who are taking him to Agathar for interrogation. A group from Othek (the region Raiya and co. live, derived from 'bibliothek' which means 'library' in German) are in pursuit, but I want to assist them in Moonpelt's rescue if they are in need. We will fly to West Ridge and meet with the rescue team. If all goes well, we can head west and reach the safehouse by nightfall."
Rinka then turned to Ki'thune. "You may come with us until we reach the rescue team so that you can assist them, if you wish?"

(Note 1: 'Safehouse' is a placeholder name. Rinka has safe places for the purpose of resting points for when people have to travel long distances.)

(Note 2: Since Ki'thune arrived after she finished going over details of the Syrune mission, Rinka's not planning on bringing him along after she makes sure Moonpelt is safe. But don't worry because like Jay said, a wrench is going to be thrown in her plans!)

Ki'thune quietly turned towards the group as Rinka began to announce her intention. He turned his head to the side once she finished and asked him to tag along.
   "I shall follow." The Osprey stated calmly, bowing his head in respect. He already knew his intentions to help would assist Rinka and the rescue team greatly, knowing that an extra bird always lightened the load off of the others. "Should I prepare to wear protective gear, my Queen?"

Vix nodded at Rinka's explanation, and when the Osprey landed, tilted her head in curiosity. The change of plans took her a bit by surprise, but she would still follow her Queen on any mission. It seemed that this rescue mission was of equal importance with finding Syrune and the two falhawk chicks, so Vix pushed that mission back in her mind.

All the while, staying very quiet near the front of the gathered soldiers, Dot the Kestrel stood in patience. Her day had included so many rapid direction changes since morning that she could barely keep track of one mission or another, especially since she never expected to be included in any of them to begin with! She was just a tiny courier after all. Adventure, rescue missions, hidden safehouses-- she craved them all, but always considered them out of reach. Even still, a small part of the already small bird longed to simply deliver a letter for once.

Dot had never met Moonpelt, but most in the city had heard of him, for better or worse. She found the tales of his un-cleverness to be quite funny. She had heard some birds before making fun of the white wolf, and thought she should at least do her part and apologize for them if she ever met Moonpelt herself. Bullies, along with snakes, were among her top dislikes.

Wildwing wrote:

Jaystep wrote:

Wildwing wrote:"Geez, that grizzly sure was loud."

In the center of the animals who had exited their dens to see what the roaring was about, Kodi, a middle-aged wolf watched Raiya and Thalak run out of the city with an amused expression on his face.

"And there they go."

"Darling?"

Kodi turned to his worried mate. With a somewhat exasperated grin, he shrugged before turning and bounding up a pile of fossilized human den remains. After getting the muttering group's attention with a howl, he rallied them with a short speech.

"It seems the star fighter of our community has run off on her own. Again. Well, with Thalak this time."

He waited a moment for the sighs and worried murmurs to die down before continuing in a serious tone.

"We all heard the situation, but to reiterate, Moonpelt has been abducted by shades. Meaning he's still alive, which is what Raiya is counting on. Knowing our little hero, she will not stop until her uncle is safe again, and she will not hesitate to take on the shades despite being outnumbered. Even with Thalak on her side, the chances that they'll rescue Moonpelt and make it back alive... Well, it's risky. So let's take it upon ourselves to make sure they all return in one piece! Let's follow our little hero into battle and save one of our own from the enemy before it's too late? Who's with me!"

Hearing the cheers from many (but also seeing some go back in their dens), Kodi jumped from the pile and landed beside his mate. He touched noses with her after a quick exchange of tender words, and then left with her staying to watch over their pups.

"Everyone, with me!" he barked. As he led the small army at a swift army, he called for a couple birds to come up front.

"I need you to send a message to the queen. Tell her Moonpelt has been kidnapped, Raiya is going after him, and a good number of animals from our region are following her," he told a hawk. And to the falcon, "Catch up with Raiya and tell her we're on our way. Then stick with her, but fly where we can see you so we don't waste time checking to make sure we're on the right trail. Safe travels, both of you."

---

Kodi had kept his comrades at a fast pace, but not so fast that they'd be dropping dead by the time they reached Raiya. They'd caught up to her about half an hour ago, though with her in the lead by at least a meter. Thalak had fallen behind, but was still just ahead of the small army.
Seeing Raiya scrape her back, Kodi barked an order for the army to split and led half the animals around the left side of the fallen tree. As they all regrouped on the other side, Kodi chased ahead and matched his pace to Raiya's as he reached her side.
"Are you okay?"

"Fine." Raiya snapped, regretting it an instant later but saying nothing to show it apart from flicking her ears. She sniffed at the air for the tenth time in a minute, insuring they were still on track. The aching in her paws worsened after she had twisted them getting back on pace after the tree, and she inadvertently began to slow, sparking anger in her eyes.

Kodi honestly was not offended by the snap. He was surprised as it was a sudden and sharp response to his question, but he took it as a sign of her pain.
He noticed he was starting to pull ahead of Raiya even though he was keeping a steady pace. He glanced back to see that the expression she wore was that of someone who was angry with herself. At least, that's what he was picking up from a moment's glance. He knew she wasn't tired, because wolves were built for tireless long distance running, and she didn't seem tired. So was it her back that was slowing her down? Had she really scraped it that bad?

As he was thinking this, he noticed a bird up ahead flying their way. He recognized this bird as one of the ones he had sent to locate Moonpelt and his captors.
"Have you found them?" he asked as it flew to his side.

(Jay, or Ruki since you haven't had the chance to RP in a while. Would you like to RP the bird to give the group an update on Moonpelt's status?)

The female harpy eagle glided along side them before landing in front of them. The tufts of feathers on her head raised up as she spoke.

"There was no sign of Moonpelt or the shades that took him captive... I have no idea what scent trail you've picked up on but there's nothing for miles... except claw marks." Fear danced in the eyes of the female eagle. "Big ones."

Ruki wrote:

Wildwing wrote:

Jaystep wrote:

Wildwing wrote:"Geez, that grizzly sure was loud."

In the center of the animals who had exited their dens to see what the roaring was about, Kodi, a middle-aged wolf watched Raiya and Thalak run out of the city with an amused expression on his face.

"And there they go."

"Darling?"

Kodi turned to his worried mate. With a somewhat exasperated grin, he shrugged before turning and bounding up a pile of fossilized human den remains. After getting the muttering group's attention with a howl, he rallied them with a short speech.

"It seems the star fighter of our community has run off on her own. Again. Well, with Thalak this time."

He waited a moment for the sighs and worried murmurs to die down before continuing in a serious tone.

"We all heard the situation, but to reiterate, Moonpelt has been abducted by shades. Meaning he's still alive, which is what Raiya is counting on. Knowing our little hero, she will not stop until her uncle is safe again, and she will not hesitate to take on the shades despite being outnumbered. Even with Thalak on her side, the chances that they'll rescue Moonpelt and make it back alive... Well, it's risky. So let's take it upon ourselves to make sure they all return in one piece! Let's follow our little hero into battle and save one of our own from the enemy before it's too late? Who's with me!"

Hearing the cheers from many (but also seeing some go back in their dens), Kodi jumped from the pile and landed beside his mate. He touched noses with her after a quick exchange of tender words, and then left with her staying to watch over their pups.

"Everyone, with me!" he barked. As he led the small army at a swift army, he called for a couple birds to come up front.

"I need you to send a message to the queen. Tell her Moonpelt has been kidnapped, Raiya is going after him, and a good number of animals from our region are following her," he told a hawk. And to the falcon, "Catch up with Raiya and tell her we're on our way. Then stick with her, but fly where we can see you so we don't waste time checking to make sure we're on the right trail. Safe travels, both of you."

---

Kodi had kept his comrades at a fast pace, but not so fast that they'd be dropping dead by the time they reached Raiya. They'd caught up to her about half an hour ago, though with her in the lead by at least a meter. Thalak had fallen behind, but was still just ahead of the small army.
Seeing Raiya scrape her back, Kodi barked an order for the army to split and led half the animals around the left side of the fallen tree. As they all regrouped on the other side, Kodi chased ahead and matched his pace to Raiya's as he reached her side.
"Are you okay?"

"Fine." Raiya snapped, regretting it an instant later but saying nothing to show it apart from flicking her ears. She sniffed at the air for the tenth time in a minute, insuring they were still on track. The aching in her paws worsened after she had twisted them getting back on pace after the tree, and she inadvertently began to slow, sparking anger in her eyes.

Kodi honestly was not offended by the snap. He was surprised as it was a sudden and sharp response to his question, but he took it as a sign of her pain.
He noticed he was starting to pull ahead of Raiya even though he was keeping a steady pace. He glanced back to see that the expression she wore was that of someone who was angry with herself. At least, that's what he was picking up from a moment's glance. He knew she wasn't tired, because wolves were built for tireless long distance running, and she didn't seem tired. So was it her back that was slowing her down? Had she really scraped it that bad?

As he was thinking this, he noticed a bird up ahead flying their way. He recognized this bird as one of the ones he had sent to locate Moonpelt and his captors.
"Have you found them?" he asked as it flew to his side.

(Jay, or Ruki since you haven't had the chance to RP in a while. Would you like to RP the bird to give the group an update on Moonpelt's status?)

The female harpy eagle glided along side them before landing in front of them. The tufts of feathers on her head raised up as she spoke.

"There was no sign of Moonpelt or the shades that took him captive... I have no idea what scent trail you've picked up on but there's nothing for miles... except claw marks." Fear danced in the eyes of the female eagle. "Big ones."

Ruki!! )

Kodi, seeing the harpy eagle about to land, signaled everyone behind him, as well as Raiya beside him, to slow to a stop. He was confused as to why the bird hadn't given her report while still in the air as they would be losing time standing there. But after hearing what she had to say, the wolf felt that it no longer mattered how fast they could all run.
"How big?" he asked, a horrible idea forming in his head, "What did they look like?"

"They weren't 'Phoenix big' were they?" he heard someone whisper, "Only...not Phoenix..."
"You don't think..."
"Him?"
"But what would he be doing here? And without anyone knowing?"
"Do you think he carried the Moon-Moon off?"

It seemed Kodi wasn't the only one with that idea.

Jaycrow wrote:Ki'thune quietly turned towards the group as Rinka began to announce her intention. He turned his head to the side once she finished and asked him to tag along.
   "I shall follow." The Osprey stated calmly, bowing his head in respect. He already knew his intentions to help would assist Rinka and the rescue team greatly, knowing that an extra bird always lightened the load off of the others. "Should I prepare to wear protective gear, my Queen?"

"Yes," Rinka replied, "But you must hurry. My team is already prepared and we are leaving right now."

Earth's Eco wrote:Vix nodded at Rinka's explanation, and when the Osprey landed, tilted her head in curiosity. The change of plans took her a bit by surprise, but she would still follow her Queen on any mission. It seemed that this rescue mission was of equal importance with finding Syrune and the two falhawk chicks, so Vix pushed that mission back in her mind.

Jaystep wrote:All the while, staying very quiet near the front of the gathered soldiers, Dot the Kestrel stood in patience. Her day had included so many rapid direction changes since morning that she could barely keep track of one mission or another, especially since she never expected to be included in any of them to begin with! She was just a tiny courier after all. Adventure, rescue missions, hidden safehouses-- she craved them all, but always considered them out of reach. Even still, a small part of the already small bird longed to simply deliver a letter for once.

Dot had never met Moonpelt, but most in the city had heard of him, for better or worse. She found the tales of his un-cleverness to be quite funny. She had heard some birds before making fun of the white wolf, and thought she should at least do her part and apologize for them if she ever met Moonpelt herself. Bullies, along with snakes, were among her top dislikes.

The queen turned to her assembled team and called out an order for them to take to the skies. As she watched birds begin to spiral upward, she glanced over certain individuals for seconds at a time. Of these, she spotted a young female Peregrine Falcon, who didn't seem to have exceptional traits apart from a Peregrine's speed at first glance. Rinka also saw the small Kestrel, Dot, who had informed her of Syrune's escape. Though this was a rescue mission and they would be traveling near shade territory, the queen could see ways that Dot's size could come as an advantage. And if there were messages that she needed to send, Dot was a courier and already proved she had the grit to travel large distances in a good amount of time.

After briefly assessing her team, Rinka moved to fly and take the lead, but before she got off the ground, she paused and looked back to Ki'thune.
"Do you have access to protective gear?"