,Wishing on a Shooting Star, :MB:

Number of posts : 1161 Registration date : 2009-01-12

Cinder

Cinder closed her silver eyes gently and sighed feeling her pup slow it's nursing and drift into warm milk filled sleep. A voice came to her ears then and she lifted her head and looked to Link. It was Fran's voice. "Yes?" she called her voice soft and tired but calm. "What is it Fran?" She asked and then looked at her mate and child and kissed the pup on the head gently. ....it's not your fault...Cinder thought to the pup.

Admin Number of posts : 1199 Registration date : 2009-01-11

Solemn throughout the whole procession even when Crow barreled through the bushes. Her mind was cut off, cold calculating. Rodion was gone, led off by Zelda, a fem she was familiar with. Thus it was the wolves of Jabbar, they had left their land willingly, Evander didn't even have to drive them out. She mentally snorted in disgust of the actions that seemed like cowardice. She lay like a alabaster sphinx next to the tiny parcel that was Damean's and Jaded's babe. Anger would come later, anger would come when she sunk her fangs into the traitorous blood breaking filth that now resided in Jabbar. Her home as long as most anywhere. Rawbones, he exceeded her in age so right now it was not bothering her that he was holding position above her rank, besides she knew he was the only one who could compare with the intense loyalty she felt. Perhaps even Blade and Petra but then again Akiko always had a different mindset.

Evander would die, whether by their faction or another. He would not sit unmolested on that lands thrown. This she knew to be true, the land would reject him and he will soon find out the grave error of his ways. Evander had looked over her before not bothering to make notice of her. He would regret that decision when she was leading the charge for his blood. There was a conflict unlike she had ever had before now...to reclaim the lands or stay with the pup...

Rawbones was beside her now, looking for all the world as if they were mates and the pup was their own suckling babe. How she wished things could be so simple. She needed Cinder to birth those pups if she heeded nothing from Legends trespass than she would scour this land to find a mother to take in Damean. She feared that it was already taking too long but she knew that there was some options in the Pearl and her brother could always help her.

Crow was speaking to Rawbones and finally breaking her silence to the rest of the pack she snarled. "Akira will have NO part in this whatsoever. Rodion would not deny us in the light of Damean's passing. We may be of the darkness but Damean was good to this land when others have not been." Mind flicked back to Shadow and the bloody raid she had led on this place. She remembered the carnage and the loss of a young ones life that day at the maw of her own sister. Akiko would not deny herself her own dark tendencies but she was not a feral dog to snap at everything that came within two yards.

Rising up she trotted over to the stream and lapped up some water keeping some in her mouth so that when she returned she let some of it off on Damean's mouth. The pup would be thirsty from the journey and the wait, water would have to do for now. Running her tongue over him to wash off the grime of the road she gingerly grabbed him by his scruff and repositioning herself so that she was up against Rawbones she placed the pup between her forepaws and put her head down next to him to shelter her and let him sleep. "Our main priority right now is to keep this pup alive." And with that her own eyes shut but whether she was actually sleeping or not wasn't apparent.

Subject: Re: ,Wishing on a Shooting Star, :MB: Sat Jul 31, 2010 7:58 pm

((I'm posting assuming that Petra was ahead of Blade and there was no problems fleeing))

He was silent as he looked around the familiar lands as he paused at the border. He'd been here once before- when Damean yet lived. Back then, he was quiet; granted, he still was, but his expression had somewhat softened since then. His eyes watched Petra, who was in front, and who knew the lands better than he did. He glanced back in the direction they came from, not liking what he had heard before he left. It had been dangerous remaining for so long after Crow had left, but if they truly were abandoning Jabbar, it would be nice to have some information. It was also true that it caused him to lag further behind the faster hybrid, but he was built to spy, and there was no worries of spying in his own home, or at least, former home.

The atmosphere here didn't feel too much different than the old Jabbar. With Evander as alpha, it quickly felt more comparable with Akira's lands- somewhere he did not want to travel to again, especially after learning those Midnights were residing there, although at least one seemed to have decided to reside in Jabbar. His eyes narrowed, hating the thought. He'd rather chase all the wolves out and return, but with the current situation, it wouldn't be a smart move... yet. Maybe one day Damean's most loyal, the pack who fled here, could, but would the lands be in such a condition they wouldn't want to return. Blade sighed before turning back to Petra, not wanting to think about anything to do with Evander just a little while longer.

Subject: Re: ,Wishing on a Shooting Star, :MB: Fri Jul 30, 2010 2:58 pm

Fran watched the alpha and former alphess head in the direction Varaak had ran earlier, and turned to move towards Cinder's den, but not too close. She noted Link was in the den... and a new scent. She smiled, and walked a bit closer, but still kept a fair distance. Her voice lightly drifted towards the den, "Link, Cinder?" She didn't want to startle them. Cinder didn't need that. Plus, there had been that request from Jabbar for Cinder to help care for the pup they brought with them. If this was the case, the poor pup needed nutrition soon.

Balthier felt a bit better when Braeden allowed him to heal her wounds. Gently, he applied the poultice, knowing the contact with the closing wounds wouldn't sting as much as his did- these injuries were more shallow. He soon took a step back, and said, "Finished." He didn't have any real instruction, especially since she probably wouldn't understand yet. Besides, the wounds were minor enough that the herbs were mostly precaution.
He looked up as he noticed Rodion and Zelda, looking to see what became of the situation. Looking to the alpha when he spoke, he said, "I should have acted sooner, though..." His gaze settled to the area he had crouched, waiting for the hunter to show a moment's weakness. If only he hadn't waited and just attacked... perhaps Tom, at least, would yet live.

Varaak looked up as his brother did. He moved closer to Balthier, double checking his wounds before settling down to watch the exchanges. The younger wolf wondered where the others were and how they were doing.

Subject: Re: ,Wishing on a Shooting Star, :MB: Thu Jul 29, 2010 4:34 pm

Rodion watched Zelda carefully, staying back for the time being. He would let her have a few moments alone to grieve before joining her in comfort. He could sense something was off... She didn't seem to break down. Immediately his mind was made up that he would offer to share his den with her that night. When she finally went to rest and had time to think, he didn't want her to be by herself. There would be more than enough room, and he could not deny his best friend the option. He felt his eyes tear momentarily. He had grieved for the old bru but in all honesty had not known him well enough... not like the others did. He brushed a stray tear off into his shoulder and moved mechanically forward after affording Zelda the spare minutes to herself and to comfort Morgan.

His tenor sounded warmly, sympathy pouring forth to the two of them. "I'm so sorry... He wanted so badly to help. I couldn't have stopped him... And I refused to impugn his honor. It was my mistake. At least he took it with him, and Fenrir will grace him well for his commendable actions." The bru nuzzled Zelda heavily, giving her as much comfort as he could offer. To Morgan he gave much of the same, though far less affectionate. Between the males, this display of friendship was enough. Respectfully, he bowed out, moving to Balthier, Braeden, and Vaarak. He felt they were due equal attention. "I can see you fought bravely," he addressed the older brother, looking between him and the two-legger's corpse. "Thank you, from the depth of my being. Thank you for all you've done." He lowered his crown to the bru for a moment, paying his due respects to the fighter. Between his wounds and the shining object he bore, it was clear the role he played in the struggle. Shifting his attentions to the hybrid, a friendly smile and wag of the tail. She hadn't been out of this entirely unscathed either, by the looks of things. The scent of the other dog, long gone it seemed, was still on her fur, and it struck him soon what else had occurred. "Thank you, Braeden. You are very brave. Doing well?" He asked in regards to her health. He had mate note of her slain companion, heart heavied for a moment as he realized one of her closest was taken from her as well. Later, he would give her his simple condolences. For now, things were best left short. In time he would visit with Vaarak, feeling bad about not having spoken overly much to the young wolf. And soon, Cinder too would gain a visit from him. Now that the mystery of Tom had been solved, it weighed on his mind her health and her pups.

-----

Morgan had smelled the pair before he heard them, and let them come without interruption. A while after Zelda and Rodion's arrival, his tears had dried. Not for their comfort, but because he had none left, all leaving a stain on his friend's hide where his head had lain. At Zelda's nuzzle, he sighed deeply, feeling a rush of sorrow exit, and a bit of weight lift from his chest. Slowly, things were getting easier, pent up emotion having already been released at the start of this torment. He returned the friendly gesture equally, knowing Tom had been an old companion of hers as well. As he did so, he found himself suddenly laughing, smiling at her. It was a comfort, a sudden memory he had from their past. "I recall... Old Tom fancied you, didn't he?" He chuckled the words, unable to hold back the absurdity of it. Not that the emotions had been, but that the old fool had been so adorably enamored of her. And he spoke of it every so often to Morgan, and it was all he could do to nod and listen, and try to hold back his laughter, unlike now. Though the words came sincerely from his lips, he hoped it would help to ease Zelda's grieving, lighten it with a small memory she could keep of the elder's humorous ways.

-----

Crow shook the fur of his face out, eliminating the wetness that had dripped to his cheeks. "Look at me," he growled to himself, "Weeping like a child." His brief frustration subsided, and he allowed his silent attention to drift between Rawbones and the pup. If it whimpered even once, for whatever reasons, he leaned in and gave it the smallest lick between its miniscule auds. It almost comforted him more than he thought it would comfort the babe. He knew the elder was fighting back his anger at the traitors back in Jabbar, but said nothing of it. He could tell Rawbones didn't dwell on it extensively or he would have been showing it clearly by now. The ebony bird at his side hopped around the little thing at their feet, eying it curiously, tilting its head this way and that, halfway venturing a peck before seeming to think better of it and backing up. It looked around at its new surroundings, curiously doing much the same as his master before losing interest and flying off to a distant patch of trees. There was nothing of value here. The alabaster brute seemed to gather boredom as he finally began to settle down, and looked to Rawbones again as he rested his cranium on his tired pillars. "So," the question meant more to him than he let on, sitting in his mind like a bear. "Do we stay? If Jabbar doesn't improve... The three of us can do nothing. And where the others have gone is questionable. I don't know about you, but the best I can hope for is that Landen overthrows Evander and we run out the Midnights from there. For the short run I can see nothing else. Getting Akira involved would be a disaster, and I don't think Belikov wants to get much involved in this." He sighed, annoyed at the thought of having been run out by such filth. "But that's just me."

Subject: Re: ,Wishing on a Shooting Star, :MB: Thu Jul 29, 2010 3:49 pm

Cinder

She watched with silver eyes as Link entered the den and took the two lifeless forms away. A small sadness creapt over her heart as he took them to bury them somewhere. The fierce child at her breast though needed with her paws and sought out a fuller nipple with a squeal of protest. It warmed her heart and thought she held this pup innocent of the wrongs of her father she still wished that it had been Link that was her father. She kissed the tiny things head and looked up as Link returned and looked at her child...her child...she felt shame creep upon her again. It should have been their child.

Cinder watched him as he lay near her and she leaned and nuzzled his shoulder and then lay her head next to his silently. She sighed, weary from labor and content that Link chose to stay with her. "Link..' She said softly closing her eyes. "I love you..." she said a soft whisper leaving her lips. It was true. She loved him so.

Subject: Re: ,Wishing on a Shooting Star, :MB: Thu Jul 29, 2010 3:01 pm

Zelda stepped up beside Rodion, her eyes had already focused on the lifeless body of Tom. There was a lump in her throat and the mourning of Morgan was not helping her keep control. She didn't even hear Rodion's whispered words. Whimpering she strode forward and looked down at her friends face. He was old already but that didn't lessen the sting of his death. Reclining on her haunches she held back her tears keeping her sorrow close to her heart. She leaned forward and pressed her face into his neck knowing that he had sacrificed himself in helping others, in keeping the pack safe. "Sleep safe dear friend." She whispered softly. Straightening herself she looked over at Morgan who was could not contain his grief and she would never expect him to. The idea that she would never see Tom alive again had not quite hit her but she knew in the creeping hours of darkness it would. She feared the full force of her sorrow would knock her from her feet and render her incapable. Stepping up next to Morgan she touched his shoulder with her nose and pressed herself against him, support. Zelda would always be there for her pack, for the ones she loved and cared about. She would help Morgan in his time of need before she would help herself. It was just who she was.

Subject: Re: ,Wishing on a Shooting Star, :MB: Thu Jul 29, 2010 2:50 pm

Link entered the den and paused so that his eyes could adjust. He saw that Cinder was okay and he smiled then his eyes wandered to the two limp forms next to her. His face became hard and before he went to her he moved close to them and smelled them to confirm what his eyes saw. He sighed, to have no chance to fight for life, it was cruel. Gently he picked up both pups in his jaws, it was no difficult task they were small. Turning he looked at Cinder then disappeared from the den. Coming outside he walked a few yards away and setting them down found some soft soil and using his powerful muscles dug up a reasonable size hole and carefully placed the lifeless pair into it. Looking at them for a moment longer he sighed and covered them with the clods of dirt. No matter what parent you had it was a sadness that your life would end before it started. Rolling a good sized rock on top of the grave site he turned and put them out of his mind. They were dancing in the heavens with Fenrir now.

He went back to the den with Cinder and flashed her a smile and curled around her, he had yet to look at the living pup for any length of time. Running a affectionate tongue over her face he hoped she would be okay. There was water outside the den for her when she needed it, he was sure she could smell it. Eyes lowered to look at the suckling babe and his head tilted as he viewed it. Mixed emotions danced in his chest but how could he not love something of Cinder's? Smiling he felt content with the world and placed his head on the ground, his love secured in his embrace.

Subject: Re: ,Wishing on a Shooting Star, :MB: Tue Jul 27, 2010 10:57 am

Cinder

She was tired...so tired but she looked at the tiny light colored pup nursing from her she smiled softly. Her silver eyes roamed to the two dark colored pups that hadn't drew life into them and she felt a sadness creep into her. It wasn't their fault...she thought and regretted all those awful thoughts she had thought over the course of this...it wasn't the pups fault. She needed someone to take the dead pups away. Their lifeless bodies stung when she looked at them even with the fierce tiny femmora tugging at her teat.
She licked her nose and looked up as she heard Link approaching and warmth filled her heart for him. Cinder then felt a small thread of panic...would he accept her pup being it wasn't his? Would he be able to forgive the whelp her lineage and love her anyway?" "Link?" she called again softly. She wanted to be reassured to feel his soft touch and see his loving eyes.

Subject: Re: ,Wishing on a Shooting Star, :MB: Tue Jul 27, 2010 3:17 am

,Wishing on a Shooting Star, :MB: - Page 24 RawbonesBRN

Rawbones visibly relaxed when Rodion said that the pup would be well-cared for. However, he felt his spine tingle and fur bristle when the Alpha mentioned Cinder's condition and he was reminded of Legend. The young demon had been exiled from the lands of Jabbar, yet now he lingered freely, no longer under persecution for his unforgivable deeds. It disgusted him to know that he needn't go punished any longer, that he was free to do as he pleased. It was an effort to force the negative thoughts out of his mind, to make sure he did not go crazy in front of any wolf here. Surely they would think him mad if he lapsed into that rabid state of mind brought about by negativity; violence, arguing, fighting, challenges. Any of it could turn him into a raging beast within seconds, and he knew he had to keep control of it at all times.

Shaking away the thoughts, he was dismayed to hear that the pack had gone through such rough times all at once. Ah, such was the life of the wolf. It seemed that nobody could escape the suffering. As the treaty was mentioned, Rawbones flicked an ear. He had been opposed to it at first, thinking Damean mad at the time, but now he saw the benefits of allies in a different place. It wasn't wrong. Killing needlessly, for bloodthrist and power were wrong. Right and wrong did not often cross his mind, but it had more frequently as of late. The elder nodded his head. He was loyal to Damean, and thus the treaty and all included within it. He was surprised and a little bit humbled by Rodion's welcoming nature, but he had no mind to make a decision about where he was to stay permanently, not at the moment. He couldn't think about that. As Rodion asked their names, his jaws parted to answer, but the words were spoken for him, and he turned his head sharply to see Crow come dashing in with his companion flapping vigorously to keep up. He seemed in a panicked hurry, and it made Rawbones glance around suspiciously. Was he being chased? It seemed nobody followed him but the bird, so he looked to the ghostly hessian, perking his auds to catch what words spilled forth.

Evander. The elder bristled again, his muscles tensing, his body threatening once more to lose control; a vicious storm brewed within his mind, and small pulses caused him to twitch involuntarily. "I knew it!" he barked, tail lashing. He had seen it in Evander's emotionless eyes; he felt nothing but delight for Damean's death, it was obvious to Rawbones. He paced a full circle 'round the wolves gathered, claws digging into the roof of hell; his eyes glanced briefly to young Damean, knowing Akiko was near him. He curled his lips in disgust at the thought of Legend and Depression, trying to reclaim power that never rightfully belonged to them. How dare they? "What a despicable bunch of spineless worms," he rumbled, snapping his jaws at nothing in particular. They must pay for this treachery, he thought, but he did not say it out loud. He did not know what the wolves of the Meadows thought on violence. Pure wolves. He had never known them, he did not know what they were like, what their morals truly were. He had only ever assumed that they were the cowards, hiding behind... what? Truth? Honesty? The hospitality they showed to strangers, to past enemies? He shook his head, not knowing what to think, then glanced to Crow as he looked at their young prince.

A sudden calmness filled him, though his body still tensed unnecessarily at times. He saw the tear that rolled down his packmates cheek, and he knew the pain and shared it, but he knew it deeper. But he would not debate how another felt in comparison to his own feelings, for one could never truly know nor understand what the other felt. Then he looked to Akiko, and she seemed to be staring at something... someone. He turned to look, spotting Zelda. He'd seen her before. She had been here during that deadly battle. Akiko dipped her head, a sign of respect, and of letting the past stay where it belonged. Rawbones lowered his ears and waited quietly while Zelda ushered Rodion away to tend to other urgent duties of the pack. He warned that no one be harmed, and all the brute could do was nod. Too much blood had been spilled, and to spill more in these lands would be pointless. It would cause only more, needless pain.

Rawbones lifted his head as he heard Exodus cry out and dash over to the den where Cinder had gone to give birth. He watched in the direction anxiously, wondering how things were going. If anything happened to Cinder, then little Damean might be doomed. He strained his ears forward but his senses were aging and from this distance he could hear nothing, not even the murmurings of Exodus' voice. Sighing, Rawbones moved back over to the newborn whelp and settled down close to him, close to Akiko. Just as she paid him no heed for her closeness earlier, he paid her none, wanting nothing more than to be near what he considered his adopted son, shifting himself close to the boy and close to her, their pelts nearly touching. All he could do now was keep the hateful thoughts of Evander, Legend and the rest at bay, and focus on waiting for the okay from Cinder. If she would be okay, if everything went perfectly the way it was supposed to.

Subject: Re: ,Wishing on a Shooting Star, :MB: Tue Jul 27, 2010 12:40 am

,Wishing on a Shooting Star, :MB: - Page 24 Rodion11

Rodion looked back to Zelda, brows pulled together in concern. He could tell by the heavy scent of blood that this was going to be far from easy. He could hear Balthier and Vaarak, and a wave of relief washed over him. And... was that Braeden? It gave him a welcome feeling of happiness to hear her trying to speak more and more. But the last thing he heard... sobbing. It couldn't be helped anymore. He moved around to see the scene and shut his eyes tightly, turned his face away. There Morgan was, laying his head on what was unmistakably the body of Tom Collins. He sighed shakily, and opened his eyes slowly, forcing himself to take in the image. It wasn't going away. "Zelda," he called quietly, almost as though he was helpless. The sooner she came the better. He knew he would need her shoulder, and he had a feeling she would want his. Despite his desires to go to them, see the body and stir Morgan from his state, he thought it best to wait. He wouldn't move forward until his friend knew the situation as well.

Subject: Re: ,Wishing on a Shooting Star, :MB: Tue Jul 27, 2010 12:22 am

Zelda nodded in agreement her body angled so that the Jabbar wolves were not at her back. She trusted them but that did not mean she was a fool for them. She did not believe the Jabbar wolves would try anything with the presence of the pup here anyways. It did make her nervous that all these strangers were afoot while Cinder gave birth. Turning she trotted next to Rodion eager to see to the health of the rest of the pack. She wondered after the fate of those she loved and she prepared herself for the worst. What more could she endure?
Link could hear the sounds of labor and it made him nervous. But yet he didn't hear the cries of pups. He knew that some mothers were known to pass into the void when giving birth...no he would not allow himself to think such things. Finally he heard the cries of a pup and his ears perked up, immediately alert. He glanced into the darkness of the den, an overwhelming feeling of....aggression rolled into his system that caught him off guard. His instincts railed at his logic Not my pups, my mate, not my pups... Whining to himself he back away in quick succession breathing heavily. Shaking his head to clear the bout of hostility that passed through him his body was tense. But then ever so softly he heard Cinder call his name and he realized Exodus was here, a flash of protectiveness came over him at the sight of the femmora and everything shifted back into focus. My family Taking the reins of his emotion he calmed himself and nodded to Exodus and approached the den gingerly. It seemed his earlier feeling had abated for the most part and he peeked into the den making a snuffling and grunting noise to alert Cinder...

Subject: Re: ,Wishing on a Shooting Star, :MB: Mon Jul 26, 2010 12:49 am

Exodus wasn't too sure as to why she didn't want Landen to go, but she really didn't want him to, then came the news of Crow and she chocked back a sob...why would she cry for him. Then Fran's words hit her and she came back to reality. "Oh Cinder...!" she dashed, getting a soft nudge from Zelda and smiled to her returning it quickly before heading off. She got there right after Link and then heard the whimper and stepped back. "She calls for you..." she said softly knowing full well this time was needed for them. "Link. I'm going to be right here listening of words from Jabbar...my...friend...is there..." she stepped back again and sat down softly...

Subject: Re: ,Wishing on a Shooting Star, :MB: Sun Jul 25, 2010 4:51 pm

Cinder

She felt a rush of liquid between her legs as she lay in the darkness of the den. Zelda's words came softly calling her pretty and she almost blushed. Pretty wasn't a word she had heard often to describe her. Growing up it had been "Hey Ugly." or worse. She felt another contraction grip her as Zelda said she had to go speak with Rodion. Cinder felt a hot tear leave her silver eye, though it wasn't from the pain that wracked her at the moment...it was the shame. How could she love these pups? Especially if they looked like Legend?

Her silver ears flicked forward and she heard Link at the mouth of the den. She still couldn't believe he was there guarding her, being there for her, supporting her after everything that happened. The pressure grew stronger inbetween her legs and she gasped pinning her ears. Her body knew what to do, thousands of female wolves before her had paved that way. Making it instinct.

The first of her children came forth. A small dark male. She licked him tending to him but it was all automatic. She was numb and when the pup failed to take a breath she nudged him aside carefully and ignored him all together. Was she so cold? She wondered to herself. Another pup came in a push of pain, dark in color as well. A female. This one too didn't draw breath. Her ears pinned still cleaning it as nature intended. The minutes ticked by...nothing. She nudged her to where her brother lay still and silent. Again her body pushed forth life and this time when she tore the birthing sack from it's tiny light colored body it let out a yell of protest. That small yell went straight to Cinder's heart.

She choked a sob and tended the little life lovingly. She was small ...it was a girl...a little girl...alive. Cinder cleaned the pup and nudged her to her breast willingly. The tiny fierce pup latched on greedily and suckled. How could she blame the child for somthing the father had done. She was so innocent.

No other pups came forth and the rest of the birthing process completed normally. Cinder swallowed. "Link?" she called softly in her tired voice.

Subject: Re: ,Wishing on a Shooting Star, :MB: Sun Jul 25, 2010 2:25 pm

Rodion noticed the silent exchange between Zelda and Akiko. It seemed things would be alright for the time being. Though when his friend suggested they checked on the carnage of their own tragedy, he pulled his ears back and winced to himself. So much to handle at once... and though he wanted to stay with these new wolves, as much to make them feel welcome as to keep an eye on them, he knew that more had to be done than what was just in the moment. He nodded in resolution, looking to Zelda. "You're right," he sighed, "We've left this for too long." His gaze fell on the Jabbar wolves. "I have an issue of our own to check on as of right now. I am trusting you in my lands alone. Despite these words however, I must tell you to harm no one," He saw the one called Crow look up and nod stiffly, reassuring him, "I believe you won't. Too much has gone on in recent days to risk such things."

The alphen turned to his friend, serious, preparing himself for what was to be seen... hopefully nothing. The howl that had sounded from Morgan's lips had not been one of good tidings, and when he heard it, his heart sank to the pit of his stomach. Still, he lifted a paw in that direction, decision made. "Shall we?" As he began to pad away, he stopped at Fran for a moment, offering a smile. "If Link doesn't howl any news of the births to the rest of the pack in his excitement, will you please let us know when Cinder is finished? This is more of an important time than any." With that he continued on, clenching his jaw and changing his demeanor. The stench of blood was already upon them, and he hated to have to get any closer.

Subject: Re: ,Wishing on a Shooting Star, :MB: Sun Jul 25, 2010 1:11 am

Link had ripped a large section of bark off of a tree and using his paws and teeth shaped it the best he could. Then he took a few leaves and lined it. He admired the colorful array of the leaves and was worried that Cinders pups were too late in the season. Pushing those thoughts from his mind he went to the river and choosing a shallow section carefully allowed the water to fill the makeshift bowl. Quickly, but carefully he began to drag it towards th den. He paused as he came across the scent of Jabbar, but decided he needed to get to Cinder before investigating. He noted Zelda leaving, probably going to talk to Rodion. Finally he got the water to the den and left it at the entrance. He could not get it into the den without spilling it, he knew Cinder would appreciate it when her labor was over. Softly whining so she knew he was there he sat, guarding against the world. Ears perked and alert like the soldier he was.

Subject: Re: ,Wishing on a Shooting Star, :MB: Sun Jul 25, 2010 1:03 am

Zelda hushed Cinder gently guiding her to the den. It had started. She ran an affectionate tongue over the fems face. "You'll do just find, these pups will be so lucky to have such a pretty mama." smiling she withdrew glancing about for Link. There were other things she needed to attend, like a missing piece of their pack. Peering into the den she looked at Cinder. "I'll be back soon, I must speak with Rodion. Link will be here shortly." She ducked back out and could already see Link dragging something towards the den. Zelda could only help so much, every fem had to go through this process alone. The tri hued fem dashed off and stopped short to see a multitude of wolves had joined them.

They were of Jabbars ranks and was about to question their prescence but a wolf followed by a Crow dashed in, her fur bristled at the abrupt intrusion but Rodion handled it, she also got a quick summary of why they were here. Her own light azure eyes strayed to the tiny pup sitting between the elders paws, then onto Akiko. The two fems glanced over each other her muscles tensed. She looked so much like Akira...then Akiko inclined her head slightly and Zelda returned he gesture.

Stepping up to Rodion she frowned not quite completely comfortable with all these wolves here. "I think it's time we see to the fate of those who went after the human." fear clenched her gut, she knew tragedy had struck again and she loathed to see who. Seeing Exodus she flashed the fae a smile and stepping over gave her a quick nuzzle under her chin.

Subject: Re: ,Wishing on a Shooting Star, :MB: Sat Jul 24, 2010 8:41 pm

The alphen turned his gaze softly upon the trio, sitting slowly before them. Though they didn't seem the types to want it, his expression offered pity. He could tell the femme was intent on being strong, so it was more towards the pup and his elder guardian, who seemed the strong type, hardened by much and not overused to such. Rodion gave a hint of a smile, doing his best to comfort the bru of his urgency. "There is no need for pleading. The child will be well cared for here. Cinder has just gone into labor," he began to explain, "And I'm sure you know of her case. She has endured much stress as to bearing the pups, but I'm sure she will see them with love when they arrive. To cut to the point, if young Damean can hold out until Cinder has calmed, I am fairly certain she will welcome him into her litter. The king and queen of Jabbar had shown her much benevolence and care. I'm sure she would see it as the least she could do for them in parting."

Rodion pulled his lips tight for a moment, hoping his words were right. They could not afford to lose this pup, and they could not afford for Cinder to get skittish now. Aside from this, there was something else on his mind. "I know of the treachery that has occurred on your lands, and I realize that neither of you wants anything to do with it." The Russian's tones were warm, inciting friendship rather than business at this point. "I can see you two are still very much loyal to Damean, and the way I see it, this still makes you loyal to the treaty. I do ask that you forgive our current state. Aside from our run-in with Legend, we had the issue of a hunter on our lands, and we are still trying to reorganize. However, if you so wish, you are more than welcome to stay with us here, whether permanently or otherwise." He left his words at that, feeling he had said just about enough at once. He did have one last thing to add. "It seems in the rush of things I have forgotten to ask your names. Forgive me. You are?"

------------------------------

"Rawbones! Akiko!" The voice of a strange hessian called in perfect timing with the king's question. A ghastly looking white bru came running headlong to the group, slowing down just in time at their feet. The black markings on his face didn't seem to take the alpha aback one bit, which was good for him. He was in no mood to explain. His bird came flapping to a halt beside him, and it seemed that for once it had had trouble keeping up with him. He was panting heavily, trying to regain his composure in the midst of these much more important wolves. "Evander, he's... he's admitted straight to my face... he had Damean killed. Landen's taken him on." He didn't care if they already knew. He had to tell someone, anyone. "He tried to set Legend and Depression on me... and some other demon. What a coward." As he spoke his last sentence, his eyes fell to the small bundle that was the all important gem of Damean and Jaded's love. In a display rare to his demeanor, he lowered himself before the newborn pup, touching their noses together and gaining a small whimper. It was all it took to let that single tear finally come down his face. "So this is him, then?"

"And who are you, might I ask?" Rodion's voice sounded with some seriousness to it. He could see that this bru was on the same terms as the other two of their group, but was still slightly irked at the sudden intrusion.

"Crow," came the response, barely taking his eyes off the child to acknowledge the alphen. He would show respect where respect was due, certainly. However at this very moment, the most important thing to him now was the little thing in his face.

"Then I welcome you here as well, Crow, if you wish to stay. So long as you were loyal to Damean, I see you as an ally."

"Not to worry," Crow responded quietly, "I still am."

Subject: Re: ,Wishing on a Shooting Star, :MB: Sat Jul 24, 2010 3:52 pm

OOC: Rodion and Crow coming soon. Moohn is dizzy from vicodin... weeee.

Subject: Re: ,Wishing on a Shooting Star, :MB: Sat Jul 24, 2010 12:48 am

Rawbones glanced to Akiko as she settled close to him, watching her icy blue eyes; he could almost see the thoughts that ran through her mind, the memories that shifted behind the windows of her soul. His memory, too, was jogged by this place, certain landmarks reminding him of the blood that had been shed so long ago. He shook his head, forcing those thoughts from his mind, for this was not the time for such thoughts. He looked up as a small commotion was made and an older femme led a heavily pregnant femora away. He realized that was Cinder, and her time was coming; the timing couldn't have been better. But now, he watched Akiko as she licked the whelp soflty, never having remembered seeing such tenderness from her, not even when she had been mated to Gladiator. She had always shown strong loyalty to those she respected, but he had never seen her so utterly dedicated, heart and soul. In fact, he had never seen her heart exposed at all, not once. She hid it well with her merciless rage and harsh stoicism. Then she spoke, her voice strong though it was for him to hear only. He nodded his head, agreeing with her. Things needed to change. "We will prevail," he said simply, without doubt in his voice, "But for now, Akiko, you mustn't fret on that."

The elder glanced up, taken from his musings as their small group was approached by the Meadows' alpha. Silver, lifeless orbs watched the man as he came without hesitance, his posture that of true confidence, not overcompensating for fear. He nodded to the bru in respect, holding himself lower than he did in the presence of most wolves, a gesture he rarely offered to any. But he knew now more than ever that he needed to stay in line, if only for the sake of Damean. He glanced downward as condolences were offered for the Jabbar wolves' losses; he knew the man meant well, but words would not help, and he could not budge his lips to form a smile. When Rodion asked what small Damean was doing here with them, Rawbones instantly raised his head, giving the Alpha a look of urgency. "As you've heard, both of his parents are gone," the elder croaked, biting his lip for a moment, "He needs someone to nurse him. Please... if anyone here can help, please.."

Rawbones never resorted to pleading, yet for those that he loved he would go the distance and more; he would do anything. He would submit, he would degrade himself, he would get himself killed. He had nothing left, and so he would give it his all for this youngster. He knew that Akiko was with him on this one, and though another would nurse him, hopefully, Rawbones knew that they would be Damean's parents, his mentors and his guides to life. Something in the both of them had clicked, and the urgency of the situation controlled them both and drove them ever harder. Despite any sorrow that clung to their hearts, their strength was heightened by the neediness of this newborn, and it would continue to drive them until his survival was seen through.

Braeden tilted her head as Balthier grinned at her words, unsure of the gesture's meaning. She would have to learn quickly to understand certain body language, for it seemed as important as the words these wolves spoke. But she had been so isolated, in such an unnatural environment for most of her life that she'd never been given the chance to learn such simple things. She knew the things which came naturally to her, tucking a tail, a smile, a laugh (if she'd been lucky enough to share in either), but it was more difficult to link the gestures when words were involved, and in situations which were foreign to her. Without the silent guidance of her friend she fretted that she would not be able to grasp some concepts, but she would try, and she felt somehow these wolves would at least try to help her.

The hybrid watched as Varaak returned with smelly plants in his mouth, quickly going through what seemed a known ritual in Braeden's eyes. There was soon a mixed poultice and she squinted her eyes to watch him apply it to Balthier's wounds. He seemed to wince as though it hurt, and Braeden's ears flicked back in confusion and fear. Balthier did not fight it, but it was clear there was pain. Then he got up and showed her the wounds, speaking to her about it. Help. Heal. Injury. You? That was the jist of what she got. She knew those words. Was he offering the painful substance to her? But he mentioned healing. Oh, it was so confusing. But she supposed she could trust these wolves, and see what sort of strange rituals they went through, and for what purpose. Though she hesitated, she nodded her head. "Yes, heal injury," she said, offering her deepest wound as she attempted to use the vocabulary she'd learned.

Subject: Re: ,Wishing on a Shooting Star, :MB: Fri Jul 23, 2010 10:23 pm

Fran saw Exodus approach, asking where Cinder was. "They were..." she looked in the direction she and Link had been, then realized where they went. "Exodus. You're a healer, right? Zelda ushered her away quickly that way. I think the pups..." She looked at Landen, listening to what he said, and responded, "I don't have any issues with your presence here. I trust Exodus, and she is friendly with you. I don't see you as a danger unless otherwise proven." She was about to tell him where Rodion was, but he came out into view. She stepped back a bit, in respect to their conversation, but also remaining in the area. The other pack members were scattered, and she would remain if only to serve as messenger.

Balthier grinned at Braeden's response. Perhaps the pack could help her now... as much as they could. He still didn't know what was wrong, or what the humans had done to her, although he never really asked in consideration of her emotions. The scents of many strange wolves filled the air, and he started to push up with one foot, but settled back down, knowing he should at least wait for Varaak to come back.

He dropped the herbs next to his brother as he approached. As quickly as he could, he prepared and applied the herbs to Balthier's wounds, feeling the older wolf tense slightly as he did so. The injuries were hurting still hurting. He looked at Morgan, having noticed him, but wanting to tend to his brother first. He placed the rest of the poultice on the top of Balthier's paw. With a nudge from said brother, Varaak walked over to his father figure, who had stopped howling and was crying for his old friend. He dropped down next to him, slightly curling up next to him as a gesture of support and empathy.

Balthier noticed Morgan, and realized this would be devastating, as they had clearly been just about the best of friends. He nudged Varaak to move before he himself slowly stood up, but to move to Braeden. He stopped in front of her, and looked down to where his brother had put the rest of the poultice, "This helps to heal injury. You want?" He looked at his own injury, where a generous amount of the healing mixture had been applied. He wasn't sure how to string his offer to heal her in words, so he was trying an approach that should help, especially if she had seen Varaak apply the herbs.

Subject: Re: ,Wishing on a Shooting Star, :MB: Fri Jul 23, 2010 4:26 pm

Akiko had followed them and kept watch. A silent guardian among the group, he own footfalls rarely making any noise. She was on constant alert. When they reach Midnight she strode alongside Rawbones. Blackness churned in her mind. She remembered this land, remembered the blood shed so long ago when the packs converged here and had a battle like none before. There were casualties on both sides. Shaking the eaves of the past from her mind she listened, anger growing inside her. Evander...he would pay for this trespass against Jabbar. For now she would wait, wait with Rawbones and protect Damean's and Jaded's progeny. Laying down next to the older brute so that the little pup cradled between his paws was next to her she ran a grooming tongue over the tiny pup. It had traveled farther than most in its waking moments. She worried after him, he needed milk and she prayed that Cinder would have some for him. Whether or not the milk came from Legends get. "Rawbones, I fear that this land is going to have its first civil war. I intend for us to be the victors." Her voice burned with determination.

Subject: Re: ,Wishing on a Shooting Star, :MB: Fri Jul 23, 2010 2:11 am

Landen nodded as Rodion spoke. It was unwise of him, but Exodus had murmered their names in her sleep...she loved them so thus he did too. "I'm sorry" he said as the king went over to the other wolves of Jabbar but his words were towards Exodus. He was sorry for many things, and this list of next words was one of them. "I have to go there. And you need to stay here, for their sakes. It's enough the loss of a king...no a friend...family brother sister all of that and you need to keep the level of sadness, the level of temptation down, I know you can do this hun" his words were soft and he looked at Fran who was still here with concern...almost a first request as future packmates and friends that she help Exodus as much as possible. There was so much going on. A mourning call, the entrance of darkness into the light, and the leaving of light into the darkness... "I love you" he said softly into her ear and she looked up in somewhat shock before he kissed her and turned looking at the others. His eyes went to match with Akiko and Rawbones, parting his soft request to help with Exodus to as much as she would help to them and the pup. He looked at the pup. Oh...Damean... he felt pain in his heart, and then great anger. He needed to get Blade and Petra... He ran now, and parted from the lands quicker then he came. Damean hadn't been built for speed, Landen was built for as much as he could muster in fighting and speed, he claimed the swiftness of anger now and headed out to Jabbar...

Subject: Re: ,Wishing on a Shooting Star, :MB: Fri Jul 23, 2010 12:33 am

Cinder

She whined and heard Zelda's words and nodded. This wasn't right. These were supposed to be Link's pups. Pups of love...not rape. She stifled a sob and nodded to her friend Zelda. She leaned against her and glanced at Link with silver eyes as he left. "This isn't right..." She said to Zelda ever so softly. "This isn't fair.." A tear rolled down her nose and she slipped into the darkness of the den Zelda took her to.
The pain came then. Ripping across her belly and she whined again. She felt the pressure begining to build as the life pushed it's way forth and out of her. She looked at Zelda panic in her eyes.

Subject: Re: ,Wishing on a Shooting Star, :MB: Thu Jul 22, 2010 11:34 pm

Rodion listened to the news somberly shaking his head as the worst of the news was given. Legend's name was given and a low growl sounded deep in his chest. He hated the thought of that filth still walking this planet at all. He sighed as the stream of information ended, disappointed in how things had turned out. He had sort of liked Damean... or at least appreciated his diplomacy and stances on their issues. His jaws parted momentarily. "Do you think it wise to go there? Perhaps to at least meet, and if things go ill, Fenris forbid, to serve as a warning to one another..." His dial snapped in the direction of more new scents. They too carried that of Jabbar, and fleeting concern hit his heart until he saw them, carrying the pup Landen had just told him of. "Excuse me," he nodded, bowing out of their conversation respectfully.

He carried his form to the waiting wolves, eyeing them with respect, though his tail twitched slightly. No matter their alliance, the darks would always see him keeping rather aloof in their presence. However, in these moments he knew they held no threat here. They had been allies to Damean and so were allies to him. The bru cocked his head and observed them for a moment. "Welcome, strangers. I've heard all the news from Landen. I would assume you know him. And before I get down to any business with you, allow me to say I'm sorry for your losses. Now," His brassy eyes landed on the newborn pup, gazing at it softly. "What is the little one doing here with you?" He knew already what the reasons were, straight from Exodus's own lips, but he wanted to hear it from them, the explanation once again to be sure that everyone understood the situation.

Subject: Re: ,Wishing on a Shooting Star, :MB: Thu Jul 22, 2010 9:46 pm

Rawbones was glad he needed not hear any
disagreement from anybody else, only compliance. The brute meandered onward, glancing back as Landen nudged Exodus affectionately and spoke softly. His demeanor was so different than that of his kin, the ones who had come to 'assist' Damean. He scoffed at the mere idea of it. Their appearance had led only to chaos, so it seemed. He heard his name and looked to Landen, nodding his head to acknowledge his thanks. It was no big deal; Rawbones was the type to think things through and make his own decisions and state his opinions, lest he respected the thoughts and suggestions of others, in which case he had no problem taking orders. But Evander... he did not trust the sly brute, for the elder had a way of knowing when something was off about a wolf. He had always been gifted in such ways. You could not hide your emotions or thoughts from him, for the most subtle of gestures would give you away, and he knew how to read it. There were sudden soft padfalls beside him and he turned to see Akiko, glad but surprised she was willing to leave her home. He nodded to her words, knowing that the alliances were shifting and the information must be shared with their former allies. But then her voice lowered for his ears to hear, and he leaned closer to hear her with his failing sense of hearing as she mentioned the feel of treachery in the air. He nodded his head with a gruff grunt of approva, his hackles risingl, "I feel it too, but we can only wonder what the future holds now..."

-------------------------------

The elder had moved at a decent pace, not wanting to slow the group down, but he noticed how his limbs ached more than they ever would have from such a short travel - short to those with youth in the bones. He huffed as he set Damean down and watched Exodus go off on their behalf. He craned his neck this way and that in an attempt to alleviate the strain of his aging muscles. It seemed that Exodus needed urgently to speak with her Alpha, and make sure that things did not go wrong. They needed help, they needed someone in order to keep the newborn pup alive. Rawbones glanced to Akiko, smiling internally. Though he was no leader, he felt he had a new following, more friends to ease the pain of loss, all of them together working toward the same goal - Damean's survival, for whom they all cared deeply in their own ways. Though the pain of loss and heartbreak still lingered deeply within him, draining him of his enthusiasm for life, Rawbones felt that, for once, he was not facing it alone. Every loss from his past had been his loss alone, and his own heartache to face in solitude, for there had never been any to replace those who had been close to him. Not until Damean, and Jaded. Now they were gone too, but he was not the only one who felt this pain; together those loyal to Damean would share the burden of pain and perseverance.

With young Damean once more settle between his paws, Rawbones gave a hefty sigh and looked where Exodus and Landen had disappeared to speak with their Alpha and work things out. He hoped that their past King's truce would hold strong and they would be helped, for they had little other choice if they were shot down here.

Braeden looked up at Balthier from her curled, defeated position upon the ground. Though few of his words registered in her mind, she felt the intent behind it, and she allowed her tail to beat the ground several times. She felt a sense of acceptance, realizing that this truly was the way of the wolf. It felt good to be free from humans, and to feel and witness true compassion. It was something she had never witnessed, and though to these wolves it was indeed something noble, to her it was plain amazing, astonishing, in the very least. The he asked her if she would stay. She had caught on to a few very basic words, and commands were something she knew well from the harsh training she' d undergone. Deciding to experiment with speech, she parted her jaws hesitantly, hoping she was giving the right answer. "I stay," she said, hoping he meant for her to stay with the pack, rather than to stay right where she was. They were her only hope, and the sense she now got from them was that they cared, and it brought out feelings in her she had never had the pleasure of enjoying before.

Suddenly another wolf was amongst them, another that she recognized and had begun to trust - Morgan. The distress that radiated from him was almost overwhelming as he approached the still body of Tom, and she realized he must feel as utterly helpless and distressed as she felt for her nameless friend who'd perished also. Braeden hung her head and whined softly, wishing this pain would not plague them, yet it was all new to her. She felt alive... she felt like she could trust, like there was more to the world than starvation, torture and isolation. There was togetherness amongst the pack. There was still pain, but it was different from anything she had ever experienced. She knew, though her initial distrust of canines had made her wary, that life with a pack was something she wanted and needed more than anything. She wanted to stay, wanted this life.

Subject: Re: ,Wishing on a Shooting Star, :MB: Thu Jul 22, 2010 4:24 pm

As much as exodus was glad to see rodion alive and well too she could smile at her alphas presence or kind words she just remained silent... It was Landen who spoke up and she listened sharply to his harsh words towards jabbar...

"I'm afraid with damean's death came the death of a treaty. I'm honored to say that most wolves there would still uphold such things but not within those lands. Evander a brother to damean...." he didn't know how to start and a howl broke out and he looked sharply at rodion "as much as pack mates mourn I need your time..." Landen sighed and began quickly. " damean came to us asking for assistance but our alpha ordered his death. We killed off the wolves who felt strongly of his death leaving only four. We were here to aid damean and protect him from the alphas orders.. Evander lied. He did as told and knowing full well his thinking he'll smuggle someone in these lands to destroy you. If it's not physically in spirit he can try too... He's hit the pearl already..." guilt he had known this stuff already and didn't act he couldn't leave exodus. "legend will be welcomed back into jabbar and many midnight wolves... Let's say the devil is walking this earth at this moment. Wolves of damean's loyalty are here with the pup... They won't cause harm you can tell with such losses of their leaders. And I need to go get petra and blade out of jabbar I'm just giving you a warning of what can come and asking permission for the darknessto walk your lands... This is hard for them as much as you as an alpha."

Landen took a deep breath and instinctly looked at exodus who had shock and tears on her face. "exodus I'm sorry I had no idea till I got there..." she only shook her head pushed her face into his pelt and cried.

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