--Hoist the Colors High [MB]

Number of posts : 328 Registration date : 2011-02-04

Death. It was an indescribable aroma that was dissident to the nairs; it was the scent of just a body without a soul. It was unmistakable. From the moment Amor had caught glimpse of Liar’s slumped form in the cave, he turned away from it, looking straight ahead at no particular vantage point, as if he were standing guard. He did not dare smell the corpse after Yana had identified it. It not only seemed disrespectful, but he didn’t feel like he knew Liar well enough to do that. There was no mess; it must have been natural somehow. As Amor watched the pups get lured away from the site, Calypso walk past him into the cave, and Jack approach, he turned towards the Alpha and his mate. “I’m sorry for your loss and what has happened here,” he said in the most heart-felt voice he could muster. “Should someone look for the pup?”

Number of posts : 265 Registration date : 2011-12-04

Ruffian watched as the Black Pearl alpha, Jack, went to his mate. He said she could go explore or meet other members. She nodded quickly and walked away, looking around the beach she was at. At that time, a foul oder filled her nostrils of her black nose. She coughed a bit and looked at the sandy ground as she caught her breath from the horrid smell. She looked in the way of it and saw it had come from where Jack had headed, to his mate named...oh...Calypso. But she remembered this scent somewhere...her family!

The smell of the death was the horrid thing that filled her nostrils. A tear had come from her eye and she looked out at the ocean, the waves crashing in front of her. Why did she have to lose her dear mate and pups by those mountian lions??!! She walked away from the smell and looked around at the other wolves that had happiness to their lives.

Subject: Re: --Hoist the Colors High [MB] Mon Jun 11, 2012 10:49 pm

Her brother's bulk at her side provided her great comfort and her Aunt's friendly face put her at ease. She was awfully funny and she knew stories too?! Blackjaw?Immediately she began to squirm in eager to hear this exciting taill. As her brother spoke she spoke over him "Tell us Auntie! Tell us!" And then settled immediately down as studious as ever. Her tail wagging in hopes of a good story. She wondered if Mama knew stories like this.

Jack felt something inside of him shut down almost instantly and his world tipped a little bit. Everything felt alarmingly frail as if everything he constructed would fall apart and he would be lost in the universe. His head swung from his mate, her words echoing strangely in his head as his eyes looked into the darkness of the den. He did not need to go in to see her. His nose told him everything he needed to know. Bowing his head for what felt like eons he barely heard when Amor was talking to them. He was in a daze. Raising his head he looked into his mates eyes and what was in his own he couldn't imagine. He felt broken, maddened, angry, despair so deep that it threatened his mind. He felt a tug of blackness as if he now could access a tide of blackness that was snaking though his very nerves.. teeth clenching his very aroma was aggression as he met his mates eyes and stalked back to where his sister was. His vision tipped red a little bit and he stood silent for a few heart beats as she conversed with the children. And then he grunted. A deep and guttural grunt that was all wild and male. His aggression was clear and instantly Atla shrunk away fearing her father then. Jack paid no heed and stepped past his sister and moved his way into the den which Atla had scrambled away quickly from. His body halfway in he studied the small frames of the children his eyes resting on theirs. Pushing further into the den he nosed them not unkindly towards the back where he promptly turned himself around with his back towards the entrance and first grabbing Atla he tucked her into the crook of his belly followed by Caspian. He could smell at least someones fear. Bending low he roughly licked their pelts, his breath hot. "Afraid." He breathed in deeply "Never afraid here" He dropped his head and curled tighter around them his face touching his tail.

Atla stared at her father and had submitted meekly to his relocation of her but she was scared. She didn't understand his aggression and the look in his eye had told her to run. But now nestled in his bulk, his rough tongue she felt her beating heart slow down and she too lowered her head. Glancing once at Caspian before she closed her eyes and listened to her fathers rhythmic breathing. "Never afraid here...

Subject: Re: --Hoist the Colors High [MB] Tue Jun 12, 2012 12:27 am

--Hoist the Colors High [MB] - Page 25 6914441643_45e87e23e2

Jackie couldn't help but grin at the pups' delight. It had been so long since she had been amongst a pack, been amongst children, and it felt good to be in the company of someone that would turn away from the bad and look to something more positive, more adventurous, more... imagined, taking their troubles away from the world. "Aye, now quiet down so you both can hear," she said in a low tone, dark sienna tail curling around her hindquarters. She still couldn't tell what was going on, but out of the corner of her eye she saw her brother rush towards the sent. "Now, imagine a place similar to this, with green waves and golden sand. Imagine a pack, but not like this one... Imagine a pack of rogues, thieves, and scoundrels. Some are missing an ear, while others are missing an eye. They come from all over the world, these... pirates, you could call them. Sea wolves." She paused, letting the ideas sink into their imaginations. The tale of Blackjaw was an old legend, one she and Jack had been told from their grandfather when they were pups. "Now Blackjaw... He was the Captain of this surly crew near the salty brine of the sea, his fur as long and black as the deepest ocean with silvery eyes like daggers. He was large, larger than any wolf here, larger than a bear. No one would mess with his reign. He would lead his pack along the shores of many countries, plundering other packs in search of one thing, kids... Treasure." She grinned, her gold hoop earring jangling in her ear.

"And not just any treasure. Amazing treasure, the kind you only find in one spot in the world. Blackjaw scoured the globe and the seven seas in search of the sweetest meat, battling all kinds of monsters and dragons with all the fury a wolf could have. He even took on the two-leggeds with exploding sticks and rocks, all for another clue to a hidden map. Now, do you think Blackjaw ever found this fabled treasure meat?" she asked, seeing Caspian's wide eyes and Atla's open mouth, entranced with the story. She sighed and lowered her face to theirs. "Here's the fun part... No one knows. Some say say he lives on in each wolf that resides beside the sea. So you know what that means? That means you and me. We are all descendants of Blackjaw, no matter what we look like. His blood is still in every grain of sand, each growing coconut, every swelling wave. Yet... Many more say that his ghost haunts the shores, howling at midnight when the high tide comes in, scouting the sand for a glimmer of the lost meat..."

Before she could give a moment to let the ending sink in, though, a guttural sound and the hard form of her brother pushed her out of the way. She leapt up, tail high and body ready, smelling his aggression. She didn't know what was going on with him, but all she knew was that she would not let the children be hurt. He shoved himself inside the den and all was quiet - she listened hard, and heard some murmuring, and that was that. Jackie did not immediately leave, waiting to see if there was anything that really needed worrying about, but decided that if there was anything seriously wrong with him, Calypso would know. Whatever had happened in the den away from them wasn't good.

"My, you have changed, brother," Jackie said, forlorn. From what she remembered as a child, Jack had never behaved the way he did now. She wondered if he would be able to share with her the deep feelings he was having now, as they had whenever something unfair had happened to them in the past. She turned, keeping one sea-foam hued eye on the den, and headed for Calypso. As she approached, the stench of death becoming stronger and stronger. Over the crest of the hill and looking down into the hole, she could see a withered white form from where the smell came. Calypso and two males stood looking at the body, and Jackie hung her head. A death in the pack.

She found herself at Calypso's side, rubbing her muzzle against her neck in familial comfort. Though she didn't know the fae very well, it was the least she could do. She glanced at the male standing guard, who didn't seem as downtrodden, but alert, in case someone had infiltrated the lands. The other looked to be the pack doctor. Jackie didn't move from Calypso's side, but instead, found herself beginning to sing.

"The king and his men stole the queen from her bed, and bound her in her bones... The seas be ours, and by the powers... Where we will, we'll roam... Heave, ho, haul together... Hoist the colors high. Heave, ho, thieves and beggars... Never say, we die..."

An ancient song. One sung when packs needed to be strong. When families needed to stay together. That no matter what, they would carry on in honor of the dead, leading one another to a brighter future, a better day. They would share the burden and relieve one another of it all together, like sailors lost at sea.

Subject: Re: --Hoist the Colors High [MB] Thu Jun 14, 2012 7:11 pm

Amor watched as a desheveled Alpha gathered his family and walked past him into the cave, trying to come to terms with the loss of a daughter. He now thought it was foolish of himself for ever speaking up. They were shocked, and they needed time to mourn before they could even speak to others in the right mind. Amor was used to being light-hearted, his worries on things that had no life-or-death concern. But, this was...heavy. He was still in a bit of surprise that this could happen. She was trotting around and happy only minutes ago it seemed... "Oh gods..." he said in a distant, still awed voice. He heard Jack's sister Jackie singing an unfamiliar seafairer's song close by. When she finished, he gave a small chuckle of relief, before resuming a somewhat frowned expression. He pulled his head toward her direction. "Who taught you that song?" he asked.

Subject: Re: --Hoist the Colors High [MB] Fri Aug 10, 2012 9:49 pm

Florence had spent such a little time with the wolves of the Black Pearl, but the waves of emotion that swept across the land affected her. It was a mix of the land she had first arrived in becoming a storm, and then missing the only wolf who she knew even a little, but it was a relation either way, and Flo quietly sighed. She knew nothing of the wolves that were spoken of, nor did she know the wolves speaking about them, but all the same she felt the pain. Sandy peaks flicked to the sound of a song, it was a piece that left her at ease. And in her own mind she sung a song for those lost, but her lyrics wouldn't fall, these weren't familiar wolves, and they were in a moment of turmoil. There was no need for a stranger to interrupt the moments that were passing. She sat upon her haunches and then to the terra, a lot had occurred around the time she had arrived to the lands of fire and ice. Was she to call this place home, when it seemed in constant turmoil? The answer was a simple one, she would, Flo wouldn't let such situations keep her from finding comfort. Already she had found a friend among a large golden bru, however fleeting he was. And Red had been a pleasant presence, he had helped her find the other. And, with time, she would know the rest of these wolves. Perhaps learn what truly happened here.

Traversing the lands that led up to Fire and Ice were the worst, and he couldn't have been the only one to walk such treacherous lands. There were moments of fear, when the terra gave way to a barren land below. It took only a fool not to fear death, and Artair was no fool. The rolling hills and highlands were dangerous indeed, but they were familiar. Even as a young'un he could dash among the corners of a towering plateau. Yet hear was unfamiliar footing, and a high wind had sought to carry him into the abyss. Alas he found his mitts planted firmly, blades tearing into the terra little canyons. And once he passed the slopes that must've been the death of many, he was free to relax his stride. The land before him, at the crest of a hill he stood, was new and yet well known. Artair could not recall who the wolf was, the bruja who had whispered tales of these lands, but it had been enough to spike his interest. A particular spot called upon him like a second home, a place were he would find his own among new brethren. To say he missed his highlands already would be no lie, but their familiarity brought on the boredom in him. He had made his decision long ago, and being many moon lights away did not warrant a change of mind. There were few entry points to these lands, that much he had learned from seeing its borders from across the water. Now, as he stood before the territory of one of the packs, he could see the peninsula point of what he would call home.

He would skirt the land that bordered on his future resting place, though surely he wouldn't mind visiting another pack, Artair sought acceptance first. There was business to attend to, fun and pleasure could come after. The granite male forced pillars forward, and paws met ground quickly. The freshness of it all invigorated him, and he found himself dashing forward. Surely he had not been mistaken, these wolves lay in neutrality, uncaring for the likes of sinister wretches and unfazed by the purity of the heart. Artair wasn't one to care for labels, but he would find no like minded brethren in the lands devoted to darkness. Artair found the coast, and let the sea air fill his longs with the necessary oxygen. It was a welcomed familiarity, that scent of salt in the air. It used to waft up to even the highest plateaus, and on special occasions his pack had wandered down to the coast, catch a fish or two, and return to their homes. The granite male continued his quick pace, eager footed, ready to coalesce with new wolves.

Soon the granite bruja found the scent marks the indicated the lands owned, and there he stopped. No howl rose from his gut, for the barest moments he would take in what he could see. Vibrant green hues searched every visible detail, absorbing even the smallest leaf with joy. A light breeze caught his nares, and the bruja paused in his musing. The air carried concern, which in turn brought such a feeling within himself. Was the story teller wrong? His costal accent had been thick, but Artair had grown up with Ailean, that hessian had had the thickest accent amongst all of them. For a moment, he considered his fate, his decision upon the land which he was about to step into. His curiosity was stronger than his concern in the end, and lightly Artair lifted his maw to the sky. His song was long, an unexpected turn but he had found himself lost in his history for a moment. When the crescendo died, Artair's lanterns fell once more. There was nothing to do but wait, he only hoped he was an unwelcome appearance.

Subject: Re: --Hoist the Colors High [MB] Fri Aug 17, 2012 2:36 am

He was still, by now the commotion spoke for itself of what happened. Liar, dead, and not by an external force. Red didn't want to look, wanting only to remember good things. A body too young to have passed was not a cheerful thought. His thoughts stretched to Jack and Calypso as he remained where he was, not wanting to crowd in with the others. Only Flo, Jackie, and the pups weren't near the den. A howl broke through the air, and he turned, wanting something to do, but another form had already risen. All that he could do now was wait... something he found difficult to do on a good day.

Yana respectfully had moved further away, his distance just between giving distance and being close. He was no good in these situations. Red should be here, but he was too considerate. Maybe they were supposed to give Liar's parents some space first before speaking of search parties for the pup? Perhaps his words were too hasty. Quietly, he moved out of sight as the song of a newcomer reached his auds, heading towards the task that would give him an excuse to step away for the time being so he could figure out how not to accidentally say something inappropriate.

As he approached, Yana saw no suspicion in this wolf. Without hesitation, he questioned, "What is it you seek in the Black Pearl?" His stance was relaxed, no indication that anything was amiss in the lands.

Subject: Re: --Hoist the Colors High [MB] Fri Aug 17, 2012 10:41 pm

The approach of another form caused his fascination with mother earth to falter. After his call he had heard only the light sounds of birds in response, and in the distance he could hear, if he trained his auds right, the crushing and lapping of water against rock and sand. Astounding music. The highlands had held their own songs, but the variety was not as diverse as it was in these lands. The bird calls different, and the wind was what howled back against the wolves. Artair reveled in those moments where he was learning the calls of new birds, but that was broken by the padfalls of familiarity. Emerald hues watched as a bruja came forth, and his relaxed state brought comfort. He had had his concerns about his choice, and the wind had carried some disdain. Still, here was a hessian as calm as the trees, it was enough to mute his thoughts of negativity. "The name's Artair, and ah seek a new home." He had reclined on his haunches when his song had died from his maw, and from there he remained. The Black Pearl. Fancy that. That crazy story teller had it right, and it was a good thing too. He didn't look for trouble, and was pleased to have avoided it. Though if he had been mistaken, the granite male was no weakling. He had toward over his brethren at a young age, he wasn't terrifying large, but the bruja could hold his own. "A wee ol' hessian spoke of the Pearl, came to see it for me self." Artair stood from his spot, and bowed lightly to the other male."Got room fer a traveller?"

Subject: Re: --Hoist the Colors High [MB] Mon Aug 20, 2012 10:36 am

"That's a lesson, then. The crazies aren't when you least expect." He ran a critical eye over the bru. As a guardian- funny how he still wasn't used to the title; it sounded so... moral- he would be careful who he allowed in. That Chimera fem had left, and whoever that other was. They caused no harm, as he figured she wouldn't. Physical damage was normally a last resort. This one was more physically able, and didn't appear to be a manipulator... yet.

Seeming deeming Artair alright for the moment, the British Columbian said, "They call me Yana. You're welcome to call these lands of neutrality home once Jack approves. At the moment, Jack is a bit preoccupied. There have been a few waiting to see him, but I haven't paid attention to see if they yet remain." As he kept speaking, his voice nor relaxed appearance never wavered, "I will be frank. A natural death has occurred, and the pack mourns, alphas taking it the worst. Want to see the ocean before we introduce you to the others? It'll give them a bit of time."

Subject: Re: --Hoist the Colors High [MB] Wed Aug 29, 2012 9:29 pm

Emerald hues watched the studying eye, during which Artair remained friendly. It was in his nature to be everything but threatening, but that wasn't to say he couldn't be if the need arise. Amongst the strangers he had seen on his journey, no more than a pawfull saw his threatening side, and that was of their own accord. In a moment of defense or a threat, Artair was capable of bristling much like any other in such a situation. He happened to prefer to avoid such confrontations, but not all wolves were wise. His attention returned to the lands before him, by the lyrics of the bruja before him. Yana. Jack. Strange names to hear for the foreigner, but they were more intriguing than confusing. Artair's features change only slightly, to one of brief understanding. There had been something on the air, a natural feeling of grief, and it was clear why now. He didn't say anything about it, for several reasons other than that it was none of his business. He imagined he wouldn't need to venture further down that path of knowledge, certainly he would hear more at some point, if indeed he was approved. "The ocean, aye, that I would." Artair stood from his position, taking a step forward before awaiting the other's lead. "Been in these lands long, have ye Yana?" He gestured to their surroundings, it wouldn't be bad for idle conversation. And speaking of the mourning wolves or the death itself hardly seemed like an appropriate topic. Artair also suggested more than the Pearl in his question, he was curious about the other packs.

Subject: Re: --Hoist the Colors High [MB] Thu Aug 30, 2012 11:19 am

Artair agreed easily enough to take a detour before heading to Jack. Yana tuned in the direction of the beach line, walking while answering, "Quite a while, yes. I'd been wandering in the lands outside for some moons before coming here. My original purpose was to find someone I once knew, but he's quite elusive when he wants to. I decided to settle down with a pack, knowing we'll meet again if we're supposed to." The smell of salt water was stronger now. They'd soon see the ocean.

"Places like this can change wolves. Although I'd still like to come in contact with my friend, I could accept not seeing him again. Maybe that'll change again in the future, but I've never been one to think that far ahead. What kind of place did you come from?" Now, he turned a question to Artair. The ground beneath their feet slowly became softer, more fine, probably from a time when the ocean water reached much higher than they did now.

Subject: Re: --Hoist the Colors High [MB] Tue Oct 02, 2012 12:23 pm

Caspian grinned when his aunt mentioned stories and his little tail wagged a bit excitedly. He loved stories and his aunt seemed to have such a colorful way about her and smelled of the sea...it brought a comfort to him even when the smell of death lingered in the air.

Calypso watched Jack's eyes dim and he pulled away from her. He silently stared at Liar's den for long heartbeats. Her own echoed his whether she knew it or not. She watched him and her ties to him strained as she watched him turn, look at her with such a fierce aggression in his eyes. She swallowed and saw him enter their den and for a moment she feared.

Instinct made her want to run to them but the love she held for Jack and the trust she had in him held her firm as she watched him dissapear with their children into the dark of the den.

Caspian saw his sisters fear and would push by her side. There was something strange about their father now though and he protectively put himself in front of Atla as their father curled around them. "Never afraid here...." his words echoed in his tiny ears and his eyes met his sisters. He nosed her quietly and lay his head down. Though not tired he knew that they could not leave the den at the moment....strangely he felt his father needed them.

Calypso finally seemed to breath as Jackie nuzzled her and then she would look at the other's about her. She heard Jackie's song and tried to take comfort in it and then realized that she needed to be strong now for Jack's sake...for the pack's sake...for her children's sake.

Words hit the air but she didn't seem to hear them quite. A wolf was speaking to Jackie. Her eyes then saw a strangers and then she saw Yana move to greet him. Good Yana. She thought in the fog of her mind before her eyes went to Red. She approached him slowly and then would take a deep breath. "It is a sad day my friend. I wish us to up our border patrols....I will even take my turn as long as Jack is with the children." She said her voice even and trying not to break. "We should hunt as well....blood will aid our strength and right now we all need to be strong."

Subject: Re: --Hoist the Colors High [MB] Wed Oct 03, 2012 10:20 am

Red nodded his agreement as Calypso spoke to him. "My condolences, and best wishes for... wherever we go when we pass. She deserves to be in the best place of the afterlife." He stopped there, wary to express himself while trying to avoid stirring up too much sorrow again. It is good to remember the deceased, but in a good light. That's what Liar would want of her parents.

"If that's what you wish, Calypso. Just... don't overexert yourself." He paused before continuing, "I was thinking... once the lands are secure and wolves fed, we could continue a wide patrol circle around the pack and a smaller one around this area while you and Jack spend some time with Liar. It's what my birth pack would do to give privacy and respect to the family of one who passed before we gave a burial." He wasn't sure if it was in his place to suggest it, but Red was sure she also wanted time with her pups and mate and was putting duty first. With these memories gave opportunity for at least a few minutes to grieve properly out of earshot of the pack; it was what he could offer if she wanted to stay strong in front of the pack but needed the release.

Subject: Re: --Hoist the Colors High [MB] Wed Oct 03, 2012 7:24 pm

The salt air was a refreshing breeze that wafted into his nares, it brought a sense of calm and reflectiveness. Artair quickly fell into step next to the leading bruja, listening intently, and with interest, to Yana's response. These lands were foreign in every sense of the word, at least to the granite male. However, he had never found his life's adventure without having to first step out of his comfort zone. On a few occasions, his adventurous spirit had a young Artair in deep trouble with the elders. This never stopped him from pushing further past the boundary of allowance, it was hard to keep his spirit at bay. Emerald hues danced about the surroundings, something that was so familiar to Yana was mesmerizing for Artair. The salt air was a refreshing breeze that wafted into his nares, it brought a sense of calm and reflectiveness. His attention returned to Yana as the bruja inquired of his story. "I do hope you find him again." Artair acknowledged the bruja's words, and then spoke his own. "An eilean, or island. Came across the water on one of them human boats. Fancy that eh, a wolf crossing water!" The bruja made a joke of it, but he had loved crossing the ocean. "I was meant fer some kinda breeding zoo, its a wonder why I escaped eh?" Artair smirked and took another breath of the salty air. "Ah saw some of the land from a fence, they had us in an enclosure. Couldn't be bothered to remain in that place, so I dug out and found my way 'ere." Emerald hues caught the change in light, as the rays reached into the land. The sound of lapping water caused a stir in him, but his features remained calm.

Subject: Re: --Hoist the Colors High [MB] Thu Oct 04, 2012 2:20 pm

--Hoist the Colors High [MB] - Page 25 6914441643_45e87e23e2

Her lyrics fell quiet as the sound of the surf and wind took over. Calypso nuzzled her in return, and then one of the wolves before her spoke, asking her where she had learned the song. "I learned it long ago, when I was just a pup, I think," she replied to Amor, turning her head towards the setting sun. "My grandfather taught it to me. He said he learned from the wolves he would travel the seas with..." She now watched as Calypso moved away, unable to stay at the scene any longer, and approach the maned wolf nearby for more private conversation. She looked back at Amor. She didn't know how well he knew the deceased wolf before them, and there was remaining duty that had to be done. "Go catch up with Calypso... I can bury her. It won't be any trouble," she said, stepping down the hillcrest so she stood over Liar's form. The scent of her death flooded her nares and sickness took hold of her stomach, but she kept her jaws clamped together, bracing herself. It was a dirty job, but it needed to be done; it was better to have a honorable burial than a corpse left for the seagulls, now flocking near. She flashed her teeth at them, though she knew it would only entice them more.

The fem's body was already mostly in her den, and so the burial wouldn't take much effort on Jackie's part. All she would have to do is collapse it in and cover the opening. She nosed Liar's foot inside and then turned, shoveling a mix of dirt, sand, and clay upon her. It wouldn't have been her first time burying a packmember... Though, most of the wolves she had had funerals for were sent off to sea, thrown into the depths where they were never seen again, for the ocean gods would forward their souls into the beyond. Yes, life within the Pearl would be different from what she knew... but it would also be the safest; for now, at least. She didn't want to think about that. Before she knew it, the duty was done, and she turned around to pay her respects to the new grave. Jackie loped to a flowery clearing a few paces away and plucked several blooming, colorful beach flowers, placing them on the top of the mound, followed by a ring of seashells from the shore. Now, the grave was prepared for anyone that wished to visit. She took a couple of steps back, bowing her head. "May Hades guide your soul, Liar. You will be missed, but never forgotten by the souls of this pack," she said.

That being done, the sienna wolf stood upon one of the many sand dunes, seafoam eyes looking around to see what the rest of the pack was up to. Jack was still in the den with the pups... "Oh, Jack," she said, hanging her head. He had changed so much. Were this another time, another place, he would be... well, different. Much had changed between them. Jackie wondered if things would ever be the same again, but she knew it would do her no good to dwell on it. Only time would tell. Calypso was in conversation with Red, and there were two wolves - one of them surely a new face - that she didn't recognize talking near the woods. She found herself nearing the shoreline, the warm, green waves washing around her ankles, facing the sea. She inhaled the salty wind with all of her lungs, closing her eyes and embracing the feeling... The feeling of the sea...

Subject: Re: --Hoist the Colors High [MB] Sat Oct 06, 2012 11:35 am

As the ocean came to view, Yana blinked as the glare on the ocean made the waters seem to glitter. "Thanks," he responded in recognition. "You know, I didn't know this until recently, but Jack has a sister, who had oddly enough, just... I guess she washed up on the shores back to the pack. She smelled strongly of the ocean. I didn't know about her, but I'd says she frequently traveled the ocean. There's an odd thing on her ear, but maybe it happened if she had been traveling on human boats like you did. Maybe you can ask her about her own travels."

Thinking on Artair's words, he paused to stare off into the water as his footsteps slowed to a stop near the shore where water gently lapped at his paws when the waves came up before continuing, "I for one, am glad you were able to. I've heard rumors hat many don't make it out. Perhaps you're pretty intelligent, then." He grinned, restraining from looking back to see if he could seethe rest of the pack. He and Artair, Artair especially, would probably be content for a while, staring at the ocean.

Subject: Re: --Hoist the Colors High [MB] Mon Oct 08, 2012 3:19 pm

Emerald hues were casted out to the waves, and for a moment he felt whole. Perhaps it was the fact that they were not meant for such troublesome waters, the ground was where most felt safe. Earth beneath them to tear apart, or to revel in. And while he had only been on a few boats, and only twice did he stand on deck to truly enjoy the open air, there was no place more comforting. His attention turned back to Yana, letting the thoughts go so that he was not anti-social. "A lady after me own heart already? Bless this place." Artair joked, a playful smirk crossing his maw. It was an interest thing to note, and he made it a reminder to himself to seek out this fae. Artair followed the bruja up to the shore, letting the salt water kiss his mitts, and the air fill his lungs. Oculars once more returned to Yana, and nodded in quiet understanding.

"I moved only twice, but many do not make it far in life. I can say with much horror that many brethren ended up as prizes..." It was a horror he hoped none would have to experience, and it had been the turning point for Artair. "Cunning and daring is what I'd choose. It was a group that followed, and not all made it to haven. The humans have loud mechanical birds they ride on, many a wolf was shot down from above." His emerald gaze and shifted back to the sea, a thoughtful expression across his features. Artair sighed slightly, the memory wasn't far from being recent, even though it had been many moons. "That be the fair sea maiden you speak of?" His gaze had shifted to Yana before looking down the shoreline, catching sight of a form reaching the water. He would be hard pressed to lie and say his curiosity hadn't peaked at Yana's description.

Subject: Re: --Hoist the Colors High [MB] Mon Oct 08, 2012 5:02 pm

Yana grinned, and replied, "Your timing to come here is impeccable, indeed," to Artair's joke. The ocean did have its charms, even though he was probably relatively desensitized. He listened to Artair's memories from his experiences with humans, making all the more glad he was lucky enough to not have been near humans in that scenario. It was a much nicer position to be the one on the attack, not the one being killed.

He watched a wolf wander onto the sands, probably for the comfort of the ocean that she was used to, and he companion commented. "Yup, that's her. Want an introduction, or do you want to be left alone?" Black colored eyes gleamed. He was only partly joking, but was all to willing to help if Artair was interested; it'd probably help boost a bit of the mood. No tricks or teasing on Yana's part, even.

While he was perfectly fine in the midst of sorrow, he liked to be on the winning side, whether it be against death or a war, and standing over the loser, not the flip side, especially if he was linked in some way. Even he wasn't heartless enough to be able to just ignore it. He was impacted, though not obvious, as he'd seen many wolves who didn't deserve it pass on along with those who did, and was more desensitized. Others normally get the impression that Yana didn't care at all by his acting as "usual". Although if it weren't for his frequent, throbbing headaches, he probably wouldn't have needed to fake most things in the first place. Then were would be be? Although the question was applicable in the present now that his job description was different.

Subject: Re: --Hoist the Colors High [MB] Tue Oct 09, 2012 9:55 pm

For a moment, the bruja stood and kept his emerald gaze on the scene before him. Was this planned? Had that crazy old wolf known something he didn't about the lands of FnI? He had come across only a few wolves who had said they had placed their mitts inside the land that was dominated by six packs. South as south as one could get, and truly there were only two entrances to the land. Both which led directly into packlands, an easy avoidable problem, but a fact nonetheless. Did these wolves know that they were spoken of on the winds? Not by many, which piqued traveler's interest even more, or at least it did so for Artair. Only a man of the sea could look on with interest at what he was witnessing, but Artair tore his gaze away with a smirk. Too likely. He shifted away from Yana slightly, but his gaze fell on the bruja all the same. "Aye, up for matchmaker are ye?" Artair smirked at Yana's tease, flicking his gaze back to the fae down the water line.

"A casual encounter then, shall we?" The granite male turned so he faced south, taking a moment to enjoy the way his print washed away with the water. "Tell me more of these lands Yana, have you been to the other packs?" Artair initiated the walk, his gaze flicked back to Yana only for a moment. While his attempts at subtly would fall weakly, emerald hues had a consistency to fall back Jackie's frame, try as he might to shift his attention. "I came through the north, smelt of another pack up there." Artair inquired, forcing his attention away. "Are there places to avoid, or is it best to learn on my own?" The granite male could only assume that the other knew more then himself.

Subject: Re: --Hoist the Colors High [MB] Tue Oct 09, 2012 11:29 pm

A crackle started to rise up in Yana's throat, but he extinguished it before it became noticeable. "Hmm... I was going to say introducing you to a kindred spirit," he casually tossed back, continuing the joking banter, smirking. He was actually smirking about the fact that Artair's eyes strayed to Jackie every so often, probably more than the other would admit.

Letting the emotion slowly fade, but leaving a trace, he turned and after a few seconds, slowly strolled in Jackie's direction, expecting Artair to follow, replying, "I've done a small bit of poking into some of the other packs before coming here without their knowledge. Also picked up rumors from the locals, too. Haven't stepped foot into the pure lands, because they'd be more likely to notice a wolf walking a line of neutrality than a fellow pure, even with a hidden scent. Things might have changed since, but from what I know, the other neutral pack, Hamara, has been caught by a flood, and the lands abandoned. To the north is one of the pure packs. Probably just as well you came in that way. Somewhat to the south is the darkest of packs in the area, Muerta Mountains. I have no issues about them, although some of their members are a bit to crazy, even for my tastes. On their other side is another pure packs. Both I guess are pretty normal as far as pure heartede wolves go. Then finally to their other side is Jabbar Junayd. Dark, but seemingly not in the sense Muerta is. Then in the middle of the packs are the lone lands of the rouge wolves and their clans.

"In conclusion, I'd say the only pack to avoid is Muerta. The rest are at least a little bit more reasonable to deal with, I'd say. I'd avoid the lone lands, too. A bit too much heat, dryness, and sand to spend too much time in."

A few seconds later, Jackie would be in conversation distance. When she was, he said smoothly, "Hey Jackie. I haven't formally introduced myself yet. I'm Yana. But anyways, I wanted to introduce my new friend, Artair, to you, since I can't seem to appreciate his oceanic adventures as much as they probably deserve to be. I was hoping to find someone to better fill the audience spot..." He turned away from Jackie to look at Artair, not bothering to hide the not so nefarious twinkle in his eyes that suddenly appeared once Jackie couldn't see them.

Subject: Re: --Hoist the Colors High [MB] Wed Oct 10, 2012 12:48 pm

Calypso nodded softly to Red. "Thank you my dear friend. Your thoughts mean so much to us at this time." She said and gave a heavy sigh before her blue eyes flitted back to the den. "I wont over exert myself.." She added and gave Red a smile. "But in times like these responsibility oft comes before grief." She said her voice full of sorrow. They couldn't let their pack appear weak. Especailly not now. There was so much turmoil in the lands....and Jack had been strong for so long...he needed the time first. "I would very much appreciate that though once things have settled and we make sure the lands are secure red. It would be a welcome thing to have time to say goodbye." She said softly and moved to nose his shoulder in thanks.

"Did I hear sounds of newcomers?" She asked her voice flat with stress. She worried of the new blood right now and the state of their home.

Subject: Re: --Hoist the Colors High [MB] Tue Oct 16, 2012 4:46 pm

The time could have been seconds, days, years. In the darkness of his mind it did not matter. In here demons reached for him, their grotesque claws searching for his flesh. Seeking to render it from his bone, he felt his skin hanging on his bones, his fur sloughing off and turning into black feathers taken by the void. He was stripped raw and bare for the world to see but there was no world here. Only him in the darkness. Running, running for eons into a starless night. The sand below him was black and when he looked up the sky was a blaze of red and in here it only rained blood. Keening noises of despair echoed all around him but he knew he was alone. He knew he had to reach it and knew he never would. And there She was. Her face was in the moon looking down at him with sad eyes. Behind that was anger and guilt, loathing and love and most of all pain. If he could have faltered he would have then, would have laid down in that black sand and never would have risen again. But She would not let him, so he ran for Her. His body ached and his heart felt like lead but he kept running never keeping his eyes off of Her. He knew that he could never help Her, never save Her though he had tried so hard but had he really?

She was there running alongside him, She was a child, all the years of the world wiped clean off Her face and then they were facing each other. And as they looked at each other Her smile began to diminish he tried to speak but he throat was ten years dry. Her head tilted and Her voice was pain to his mind, grasping him and snaking into his veins a feather soft whisper Why did you take me? He railed against his ghostly restraints and as he lunged forward to reach Her but by then She had crumbled into dust. Now he stood staring down at the place where her feet had left imprints in the sand. He stood there for a long time, the howling of demons was on the wind. Slowly the tide was rolling in and what used to feel so familiar felt so foreign to him. It touched his paws and he began wading further and further in. It was calling to him as it always called but this time he was sure it was going to be the last.

Chest deep he turned and looked back to the shore one last time and She was sitting on the shore smiling at him. He smiled to her then and was about to turn and go further when two small forms started darting around Her base chasing and nipping, tackling and swatting. He paused fixated on the two pups and then Calypso was there. She looked sad but she waited for him on the shore. And in the trees there were faces that he knew. Red, Yana, Flo, Amor..Jackie... She was gone now but he had to go to them..they needed him.

When he reached the shore he was dry he walked forward to his family.....and then he woke up.

Panic threatened to drag him under as the darkness of the den was the first thing he saw but his eyes were quick to register the filtered light and the two bodies pressed into his stomach. Raising his head he took a few deep breaths. He slowly began to unwind his body and he gently nosed his children not knowing if they slept of not. Softly licking their faces any traces of who he was when he entered the den were gone. He crouched over them in the den again herding them out with his nose. "Come on children". Atla rolled over sleepily and giggled when she felt her fathers tongue. She remembered what happened and why they were in here in the first place and she peered cautiously at her father. He seemed fine and as he nosed them out of the den she nipped Caspian before squinting against the light of day. Turning back her little ears pressed to her skull she looked to her father and then around for her mother.

Jack came out of the den and the smell of death was muted and he knew from his nose that someone had caved in the den. "Time to pay your respect to your older sister." His voice was soft but not broken. His shoulders sagged but his stride was still strong as he walked to Liar's final resting place. He stared down at the site, someone had put flowers there, one sniff told him it was his sister and he felt bad that their reunion had to be tainted like this. He would need to find her and thank her after. Stepping forward he pressed a paw into soil leaving an imprint.

Atla obediently followed her father trailing next to his tail. When they got to the grave she sniffed around it delicately and looked up at him. She too stepped forward and pressed both her paws right under her fathers, though the product was not as neat she smiled tentatively at him and nosed his leg. He responded by touching the top of her head and inhaling deeply.

Subject: Re: --Hoist the Colors High [MB] Wed Oct 24, 2012 3:25 am

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Aquamarine waves birthed themselves around her mitts, sunken into the warm sand while the sea breeze riffled through her oak-colored coat. She closed her seafoam eyes, inhaling the salty wind, the cry of the gulls taking her to a place that was far beyond here. It was a different world, in her mind, where the beaches were as white as the moon and as bright as the sun, where the water was clear like glass, with many colorful creatures swimming in between coral reefs. It was a place where she could spend her entire life. Who wouldn't want to leave such a tropical paradise?

Jackie opened her eyes and hung her head. Seaweed flotsam was now gathering around her ankles. There was a reason she had left that paradise, and it was that same reason that brought her here, along the shores of her brother's pack. Her brother's pack... A smile traced her dark lips. Somewhere in her heart, she always knew that he was to be a Captain. He was smart, noble, and responsible. It was only natural that he fill the position. She cast a glance over her shoulder to see his silhouette emerge from the den and saunter over to Liar's grave, his children following at his heels. She knew he was hurting, but there were things like the swell of the tide, that were far beyond her control. Only time would heal his wounds, just as the surf washed her footprints from the sand.

A familiar scent crossed her nares and she looked up along the beach to find Yana approaching. She hadn't officially met him yet, but she recognized him from the funeral. She nodded at his words. "Really? she said, raising a brow. Eyes flickered past him at a granite male standing at the shore, his own paws sunk into the waves. He had the frame of someone who had sailed the high seas. She wondered what his adventures entailed of compared to hers. She turned back to Yana. "Looks like I'll have to see what he has to say. Thank you, Yana," she smiled and strode up to the hessian, approaching around his hindquarters so that she came on his other side, her tail brushing his.

"Artair, was it?" she said in a slightly lower, raspier voice. She had noticed the way he had been glancing at her when Yana was speaking with her. Males were so easy to read. She stood with her mitts in the water again and cocked her head at him, the gold earring in her ear catching the sunlight. "Yana tells me you have a story for me."

Subject: Re: --Hoist the Colors High [MB] Wed Oct 24, 2012 10:21 am

He dipped his head a bit at her words. "Of course, and we're here to help with the responsibility when required." He tilted his head at the question. Red had seen Yana walk off in the direction, and apparently was careful to keep the wolf away for the time being. So the British Columbian did have a great deal of tact, although it seemed more diplomatic than nature. Probably part of the reason he hadn't seeked out Midnight or Tirisfal.

Jackie was missing now, too, as he hadn't seen her walk away, focused on speaking with Calypso and thinking about Liar. Hers was a familiar enough scent for him to not be concerned about, especially since she was Jack's sister. "I think Yana is keeping the wolf busy preoccupied for now. Do you need some time to freshen up before you attend to your responsibilities?"

Yana nodded in response to Jackie and in temporary farewell before nodding to Artair and said, "I should resume my duties. I'll find you later, Artair." He turned away and walked casually towards Liar's den now that the pack had probably cleared away.

Upon arrival, he noticed Jack and his children, so he paused, not wanting to intrude on the family moment minus Calypso. Instead, he retreated some distance to give them privacy yet stood ready, like a soldier waiting for orders. Things had to be done, but there was still some time lenience, as nothing but patrols and keeping the pack fed were urgent and... He'd already done a quick sweep, so it'd be fine for a few more moments before another. The pack members weren't too spread out, either, except... He took one last glance beyond the den, towards the direction the lone lands were in, not sure how to break the news of the direction of her tracks to him.

Subject: Re: --Hoist the Colors High [MB] Wed Oct 24, 2012 10:29 pm

There was two vexes within sight, and it was a hard thing to distinguish which was more alluring. One trailed along him, kissing his paws and washing away the traces. There was more than one reason to lavish in the beauty of the ocean, its incomparable visions of vastness, and in its ability to wash away the past. The other was more primal, a basic instinct that and the thing that vexes all hessians. Auds flicked to take in all of what Yana had to share, it was helpful to know about the entire land, even if his mitts didn't carry him far into it. A natural curiosity filled him still, and he was certain he would see some of it if not all, the granite drake was inquisitive of traveling. The warning of the dark parks was well noted, the mountains were as gorgeous as they were treacherous, a pack that lived in them would have no choice but to be tough. Jabbar though was painted as a caring hearted dark park, which left Artair a bit puzzled. Something that he quickly shook off, in lieu of the present situation.

Emerald hues danced about the scene, taking in such two vexes but only one held his true attention. Mitts stopped just short of a length of Yana, to which his attention diverted with the introduction. A smirk crossed his maw when Yana's lanterns turned to him, and his crania lowered with a small shake. Lifting his hue up once more, he found Yana moving away and..Jackie..moving closer. His playful air did not snap with adrenaline, though internally he was quick to notice her movements. A smirk stretched his kissers, jade hues turned to gaze upon the ocean in wolf form. The ring caught his attention, but he refrained from showing it.

"Aye, he said the same about you." There was a charm to his jowl, and a dance in his lanterns. Granite whipcord flicked to brush against hers, his mask completely straight. " I didn't think I'd find something so beautiful in these lands so soon." To this his gaze diverted to the ocean before them, he let the insinuation float with a smirk. "She's a gorgeous view, ain't she?" His lyrics seethed with playful mockery, and his gaze turned back to her. Though her features were a feast, he was no simple fool. They were assets to all women, and the demise of so many hessians. He could count the times he had been tricked by such a ruse, it had trained him to an extent. A bruja could only take so much! The thought brought a stifled chuckle. "Where'd you get that gift, lovely?" His tassel flicked against her's once more, and his nose motioned to the ring.

Subject: Re: --Hoist the Colors High [MB] Wed Oct 24, 2012 11:55 pm

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Jackie's cool smirk melted against her dark features. Least to say, Artair was more gentleman than rogue, so far. His tassel swished for hers and she moved hers slightly to the side, so that only the hairs touched. It seemed that she had initiated an unspoken game, but a familiar one. "Aye, she'll capture anyone's heart," she replied to his comment about the sea, stretching out like a turquoise blanket before them. "But she's more than beautiful. She's dangerous, mother of all storms and wicked weather. I should know. Were it not for her wrath, I would not be on this very beach," she said, and looked to the sky. It was tinged seashell pink, borderline red. "Red sky at night, sailor's delight. Red sky in the morning, sailors take warning."

She raised a brow at his question and snickered. Her tail flicked at his again, and she took a sidestep closer to him, insisting on the game. "That's a bit of a personal question, don't ya think? But thank you for the compliment... C'mon. There's still a lot of these lands I haven't seen yet, and the night is young. I could use a mate like you," she said, and then bolted from the spot, sprinting several paces upshore. She hoped that he would follow, she knew that he had caught his interest. She could taste his sense of adventure like she could smell the salt in the sea. Saturated. There was something about him that peaked her interest as well, enough for her to play the game with him, but she was never one to play all her cards on the first turn. She preferred a casual, whimsical approach. He was handsome, she would give him that, but she wanted to know the hessian underneath. "Let's see what treasure we can find," she said with a laugh, seafoam eyes dancing. Adventure always tingled her senses, and she became restless when she could not. So hopefully, Artair would follow...

Subject: Re: --Hoist the Colors High [MB] Thu Nov 01, 2012 7:50 pm

There was the hint, a subtle tale of the wrath of the seas washing her upon the shore. How true of any that travelled under such perilous conditions, the ocean was not a place to enjoy a summer breeze. There was more to the story that the granite male sought, but it was clear such tales would not be given up so easily. A game had begun, and it would be through this that little leaks would come. While being of an upbeat nature, Artair was not without secrets. Sage hues flicked to the sky, auds up to catch a familiar tune. A delight it was, even more so with present company. The contrast of colour against the clouds a sight to behold, and what wolf could not find himself standing in awe? This was an understated scene, but held all the majesty, if not more, of any sunlit meadow.

The step triggered a light response, one which involved his attention returning to the matter at hand. He dug to deep, true, but there was a bit of stubbornness in the hessian, and he'd find his facts soon enough. The thickness set in, there was a moment, if one paid attention, that day turned to night in the air. A crispness that appeared and settled, seemingly invisible to anyone not paying attention. It was amplified by the vein-coursing sense of intrigue and adventure, that was so clearly shared. What a rarity, to find so early in the lands. Artair watched Jackie bolt forward, away and down the shore. His granite brought him quickly up to speed, and soon he was near her once more. "My dear, treasure has already been found! 'Tis only a matter of acquiring it." The charming smirk never left, and emerald hues danced along with hers. Mitts carried him further, pawlengths down the shore. "Keep up though, wouldn't want ya eating the sand I kick up." He said and paused to look back with a playfully challenging look.