.:. Lacrimosa Lake

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

Meanwhile, Vault lay low in the dark brush, watching and waiting. He balanced on the toes of his pads, ready to change direction in an instant, his body so close to the earth he could feel its moist dampness from the rain sizzle from the ground and penetrate his brown fur. He could not even sense his own breathing, as if he were not actually there in this strange forest. Everything remained eerily silent, as though the air were expectant of something to happen. Vault was on a stakeout, plain and simple. Minutes ago, he had rigged poison from the nut-like fruit he had stumbled upon onto a small, controlled feeding area. It was only a cluster of berry-like plants, close to the ground and easily obtainable for creatures like rodents. He had managed to scrape minute shavings from the poisonous nut onto the berries, invisible to the naked eye. He could only assume the thin scrapings could take effect if ingested, though he was happy to have figured a way to test its potency so quickly. Now, he could only sit and stay, anticipating what might happen to something that fatally eats it.

Of course, it took some time for any detectable life from anywhere was seen. Vault’s trained orbs tunneled in at the sight of the berry plants. The plants’ details became an unmoving portrait that never left his eyes, not even the few times he managed to blink. Its image was infesting into his mind. After what felt to be a very long time stuck in a prowl, the vegetation above rustled ever so slightly. A squirrel-like rodent scaled down slowly from overhead, focused on the plants below. Along had come a spiny dormouse. Vault had never seen something like this animal. He cocked a brow, confused about what he was looking at. Its muscles were built like a lemur, yet it had the grotesque fatness of a rat, as well as a light, feathery tail almost the size of the rest of its body. Vault had no clue why this thing would go to the forest floor for nourishment rather than take something from the high canopy-level trees, though he continued looking straight ahead. Tension built as the rodent investigated the plants. Its nostrils and head twitched, curious of what it was looking at. It almost seemed to know something was wrong. Vault’s mind still remained blank, as though he were not there. Finally, the creature took small nibbles at the berry plant, its body moving fidgety and quick. There seemed to be now effects on the animal. More time went by, and Vault looked on as the creature still continued to eat, unharmed by any sort of poisonous entity. Before he knew it, the rodent began to claw back up from where it came in the trees. It wouldn’t make it. The rodent hesitated, like something was stopping it from moving forward. Its eyes moved feverishly about, looking for an unclear answer. Vault felt a glimmer of hope rise in his chest, tickling his lungs in a way that made him want to unleash a twisted howl of accomplishment. Maybe the poison had actually set in. Suddenly, its body began to lose grip of the tree trunk it intended to scale, sliding gradually back down to the earth and collapsing on its side. The rodent’s movement had become sluggish, until it eventually lay still in defeat. Seeing as the creature was incapacitated, Vault stood on his pillars. He even let himself stretch before he slowly proceeded over to the fallen body. As it heard his steps grow, the rodent convulsed in a last stand to scamper away, but its body remained retrained to the ground. Finally hovering over the strange, little figure, Vault turned his head to the side, looking deep into its scared soul. The beady black eyes widened in pure fear, its breaths shallow and fast as its chest puffed up and down. It was only seconds before it stopped moving completely. Vault reached down at its certain corpse, but something was wrong. It just didn’t seem dead; like it was paralyzed in sickness. He bent down towards its fuzzy chest. Its heart was still pumping. Maybe he could try something real quick…just to see…

Arriving back to the spot, he had grabbed a grocery list of medicinal plants in the area that would not overlap each other in effect. The body remained there, sick with nausea and euphoria. He dropped the healing plants neatly next to each other side-by-side. “This is never going to work, this is never going to work, this is never going to work,” he kept mumbling as he ripped fragments off the various plants. He was going to cure this sick rodent. One by one, he forced each fragment of plant down its throat and waited about five minutes, and each one had no effect on the sickened creature. The animal couldn’t even make a noise in its sickness to signal some kind of result. Maybe it was too petrified. Vault had tried poppy seeds, milk vetch, huckleberries, and nothing was working. Finally, he was left with the small, purple cone flower sitting by itself. Nonchalantly, he shoved another plant down the rodent’s throat. He wasn’t expecting anything, and when the little creature finally did make out a small cough, Vault was taken back. The creature began to move itself on the ground more calmly and fluidly, its eyes focusing more. “Oh…I guess it did work…” Vault looked about in the dead forest, almost like he was making sure the coast was clear. It had become much darker than when he arrived, and he didn’t want to leave a potential meal, but the possibility of poison still in its system told otherwise.

[OOC: ooooppssss...]

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

[OOC: kind of a part 2]

Satisfied enough, Vault took a few poisonous nuts unpicked from its origin tree as samples to bring back. The purple cone flower use was still intact, as he planned to take it along with him as well. Ensuring nothing in the area was left behind or left out of place, he began to retrace his steps back from which he came. Though hungry, he didn’t bother to kill or move the rodent animal he had been experimenting on. His back now turned as he walked away, he figured the creature would probably get as far away from this place as possible once it came to its senses. By Vault’s guess, however, with how bad it took to sickness symptoms and the very gradual recovery it was making, the toxins could stay in its system for over a day. Not to mention the lingering side effects that could last much longer. The rewards from the travel here sat snug in his maw, as he gripped the dangerous nut-fruits and the purple cone flower. Orbs focused on the terrain ahead, he tried to draw out familiar landmarks from memory, but this land seemed to have not been treaded on in a while. Everything was vividly foreign. Nothing gave off any sign of direction, as the sun had vanished and the sky remained eclipsed by the trees above. It felt like the dead of night, but exact time could not be told. Vault’s orange pools moved and churned in his head more rapidly, searching for an answer of direction. Finally, in sight of less dense brush, he trekked towards the spot until he stood on more spacious ground. He stopped all movement; he let all the sounds around him continue without his pads hitting the earth corrupting it. He wasn’t concerned, and he disregarded the right to worry over a dumb situation like this. Yet he was still giving a desperate attempt to be homeward bound. He let the sounds of the environment wash over him; all that moved was his chest as it went up and down with oxygen. No signs ahead of him. He slowly pivoted, waiting for something to tell him the path to take. The long silence continued; there was nothing. Suddenly, something memorable hit his nairs. It was the distant smell of dampness, among the currently dry ecosystem around him. Not taking any chance, he took off towards the source of this outlying scent. Sure enough, the storm began to remerge, hopefully pointing the way to Lacrimosa. Drizzles of water became waves of pelting force, as the elements now began to whip against his body like before, and he was happy to find it again, muffled laughing to himself at his success.

As he galloped, the usual dark, dismal forest set in more and more. He was arriving, but something was in front of him, its figure moving and blending with the countless trees. Something was patrolling the outlying forest, probably part of the pack land perimeter. It had become too dark to tell who, and he didn’t desire to risk anything. Reluctant to pass by, his approach curved more and more towards the form, as his own body sank lower to the ground yet ultimately not attempting to hide. Vault didn’t think it was a threat, but as his mind had sidetracked, he figured he was looking for something interesting amidst old territory, now aware he was where he needed to be. He could see he was facing a wolf’s front, as lightning flashed at the moment he was nearly face-to-face.

Subject: Re: .:. Lacrimosa Lake Sun Sep 18, 2011 6:49 pm

.:. Lacrimosa Lake - Page 7 CorentineFin2

Corentine continued her patrolling, nothing out of the ordinary wolf-wise. The forest itself could be as normal as ever, although she wouldn't know until after she patrolled the lands a few times. It got darker the further she walked. A storm rising. She smiled, excelling in this weather. Most wolves would find travelling in heavy weather harsh, but it was all too common for her. Still, she continued on normally, although it was tempting to fall into habit, to blend into her almost namesake.

After a few minutes, she noticed a wolf in front of her. At first, she thought it was an outsider, as its body sunk down, as in a halfhearted attempt to stay out of sight. Then she recognized his form, although a much soaked version of the silhouette she memorized. As she took another step, a nearby flash of lightning verified her guess. When it was dark again, she swiftly turned so she was now walking by Vault's side, before the average wolf's vision would readjust to the sudden light followed by dark. Corentine was smirking now, loving to play around like this, even in a small storm. Chances were, this storm wouldn't pass by the main parts of the packlands.

"Hey, Vault," she said brightly from beside him, emerald eyes shining in the darkness, reflecting her mood for once. Playfully, she added, "What's a wolf like you doing out on a dark, stormy night like this? Out doing your task for Evanescence? What do you think about this weather? I just love a good storm." Often, her parents had commented before that she was excited as a pup during a storm, but deadlier. Bad weather just gave her more energy than any food can. She had no clue why, and she didn't care to know that, either- just as long as it stayed that way.

Subject: Re: .:. Lacrimosa Lake Mon Sep 19, 2011 9:59 pm

Vault felt the figure move as the flash of light from the storm faded. It looked like Corentine. The wolf’s scent was obviously familiar, but he couldn’t be sure it was her. He sensed its presence move near him, as a grin played on his maw despite the plants he was forced to hold in his jaws. It wasn’t until her almost cheerful voice and bright emerald orbs revealed themselves close at his side. Vault didn’t know what surprised him more: that Corentine had moved so swiftly next to him or how unusually happy she sounded. Before, she hadn’t seemed like one to get wound up over something very often. His eyes widened a little in bewilderment, he listened to her added questions. He gave a slow nod in response to the mention of Evon’s task, thrown by her excitement. He carefully shifted the delicate balance of plants that he held in his mouth, trying to make it easier to speak. “And I love the smell of death in the morning, but maybe not as much as you enjoy the storm.” He spoke in a manner that made it truly difficult to tell if he was joking or he was being serious. “The bad weather tends to make things more…interesting for me, I guess,” he said as he now slowly began to move in the direction of the packlands and the lake. He wasn’t required to come back to Evon this very second, and it would probably be more enjoyable if he didn’t get there right now, assuming Corentine might want to talk. “So you’re the only one assigned on patrol?”

Subject: Re: .:. Lacrimosa Lake Tue Sep 20, 2011 1:44 am

In some ways, Vault is an enigma to her, like Evanescence is. Corentine didn't mind unsolved mysteries, though; they were the reason she bothers to stay in one place, so long as she doesn't get bored. Currently, she was unsure if he was surprised with her or not, and it was difficult to decipher his tone. She noticed his eyes widen slightly, but that could have been for any number of reasons- the darkness covered the potential reason. Not bothered, she waited until he finished speaking for the moment, and said, "To me, the smell of death is more like a plus... after a storm has ceased, not reserved for just mornings. I seem not to be as refined as you. Hmm... Bad weather does have a way of hiding surprises, doesn't it?" She left it up to Vault to decide what she meant by that.

"Not assigned patrol. More like voluntary. Evanescence is filling Solara in on her task, and said that I was free to do as I pleased or to patrol. Naturally, I go where the storm brews, as I've apparently been bound to my namesake in multiple ways," she added, "Storms are pretty interesting teachers. It's true some tricks I picked up are only really useful when it's storming, but it's nice to keep a few surprises. I'm sure you have quite the few surprises, as well, to go along with your intelligence and knowledge." Her eyes still gleamed, although she would be able to revert to her more common, stoic self if she so wished, and Vault would now be capable of finding the reason for this temporary change in behavior if he dared to read between the lines. She didn't just brighten up during a storm, but if that's all Vault could deduce for now, he'd see the other changes if the time came up. Corry tilted her face to the side to face him slightly, curious to see what he'd say next.

Subject: Re: .:. Lacrimosa Lake Mon Sep 26, 2011 11:23 am

Robbie had followed the ash brute at the brisk pace that he had set. He glanced back at the pup who had followed them from his home. Silly little fool should have stayed back with the pack where it was safe. Internally snorting he kept his eyes ahead marking the distance they traveled. He was agitated that they had to leave Chimera behind. What if she needed his assistance with something? He was sulking and not doing much to hide it. His sisters form dance through his thoughts and suddenly he felt a pang of guilt. He had left without saying goodbye but she would be fine...right? Of course she would she was tougher than than...at least he hoped so. Sighing quietly to himself his nose was flooded with an array of new scents and wolves. This happened in the Black Pearl and he had found it equally overwhelming. He was still so new to the world. Looking to their guide he paused. "Now what?" Did they have to wait for the leader...did they even really have a leader? Now that he thought of it he was unsure of his entire purpose here. Without Chimera he felt a bit...lost.

Subject: Re: .:. Lacrimosa Lake Sun Oct 02, 2011 10:44 pm

Surprises, intelligence, and knowledge? Vault looked back to her emerald orbs. Wow, compliments. This was new. Crappy weather didn’t make that. It only added to new ground. Was she hitting on him or something?...He wanted to believe that couldn’t be; he still was stuck viewing himself as a feared omega from his past life; a contradiction as the black sheep. He didn’t think he was that special, but that was just him. A powerful gust of air surged between the thicknesses of the trees. At first, his dark fur danced away in the direction of the wind, his body remaining solid. He stretched himself with the path of the wind, almost trying to avoid the chill. Strange, because the air wasn’t making him feel cold. He let the items he still carried in his maw loosen more, reluctant to put them down yet trying to let himself speak easier. He had nearly been choking on the poison, now things felt more comfortable for a change. He let a rare sign of emotion pass, as he almost gave a playful look. “You’re the one smart enough not to chase down a moose. I might not live that one down.” Aside from that, all posture remained the same. He was still Vault.

Subject: Re: .:. Lacrimosa Lake Mon Oct 03, 2011 11:10 pm

It seemed to be almost an awkward moment. Corentine wasn't sure what he was thinking when he looked at her, although it was only clear he was trying to figure something out. As to that something, he didn't know. Then a hint of playfulness showed in his orange eyes. She shook her head in mock disbelief and replied, "And here I thought I was going to let that slide by saying you were just being loyal to your future pack mates. I can promise to not tease you about it, since I find you the easiest to get along with... apart from Evanescence." He tilted her head in thought.

The storm had indeed loosened her up a little bit, and it was true that Vault didn't know anything about her in various weather. Was he jumping to conclusions? Then again, Corentine knew she hadn't acted like this in quite some time. She had to admit, Vault was the only interesting wolf here, conversationally and personality-wise. In time, she might find attraction as a possibility. For now... well, it wouldn't hurt to be friendly, would it? She would only allow herself very few bonds of anything close to being friendship. Until arriving here, that number had been one. There could be two more... maybe. She'd have to wait and see what the future held. A sudden thought came to her, and most of the rest of her playfulness fell as she asked, "You have been complimented before, haven't you?" She'd normally have ignored thoughts like these and just things play out for a while longer, but she couldn't help but ask this time.

Subject: Re: .:. Lacrimosa Lake Wed Oct 26, 2011 8:55 pm

Vault almost wanted to laugh, but it wouldn’t be very tact. “The closest thing to a compliment for me might have been Evanescence telling me I did a descent job. But before...uhm…no. Usually just the opposite. You know, how I’m like a scab on the face of existence. But do I look like I’m emotionally distressed by something like that?” Vault didn’t speak like this was of much meaning at all. His pack had been Puritanical, and he obviously didn’t fit the mold. His large, veteran-looking form may have made him seem older than he really was, but Vault hadn’t experienced much of anything besides hate and solitude. He wouldn’t have survived if he did not learn how to cope. If that meant Vault would become cold and impassive, it was fine by him. But times were better now, and sometimes he didn’t bother to stop and realize that. Vault stared through the ground, his mind not completely focused with the present, yet his body rigid and his voice drained of sentiment. “…There isn’t much else to say about that…”

Subject: Re: .:. Lacrimosa Lake Thu Oct 27, 2011 1:50 pm

Corentine tilted her head as Vault spoke. Now that the storm was calming as they walked further away from it, she quickly reined her control back. Plus, the conversation had suddenly grown serious, and even she had a sense of respect and honor. It wasn't often she allowed herself to be anything but a serious and competent warrior. This explanation could be part of the reason she found him so difficult to read most of the time, although he sounded quite detached.

"Then don't speak of it; it'll do no good for anyone. But no, not distressed. Just dealing with stupid things others put on you without going completely insane like some of us have. Although if any of us here were... 'emotionally distressed,' we wouldn't be here. I have no right in speaking upon such matters." There was something she hadn't voiced before on her mind, "I don't have stories most down this road do." She walked slightly ahead of him, looking up at the dark sky in thought so he wouldn't see her eyes, continuing, "Just a formerly playful wolf from an average pack who was shown a bit of darkness and latched on. That's when others started to talk." Laughing, her voice grew colder, "But that was then, and those who taunted proved much, much weaker." She didn't know what to think of that past. She never missed it, but it sometimes seemed nostalgic at the same time.

"All I know, is having nothing to regret in my life. Every factor I could control, I did. In the last pack I was in, I was able to manipulate what rank I'd get very easily. When I got what I wanted out of it, I left the realm of predictability. That's what drew me here; mystery. Willingly walking into this forest with a just as mysterious alphess, and truly letting a storm whip up spontaneously." Her tone had returned to her normal conversational one. Offering information to see what the other would do with it now or in the future, as he had given her some she could weave or guess some facts from. She couldn't help this game of hers, having played it for so long. Corentine didn't know the point of it, but she was interested if it would be a wolf reading between the lines, finding out some crucial information about her, that would reward them with her death.

Subject: Re: .:. Lacrimosa Lake Thu Nov 03, 2011 11:19 pm

Vault simply watched and listened, as Corentine began to reflect on herself. She had seemed so in sync with the whirlwind and rain circulating around them, like she was a hurricane complementing the storm. As the energy began to die away with each step they had took, however, the groggy world around them was more at ease. She started distancing herself a little; she obviously wasn’t much of a fan of her past either. He wanted to try and relate to that insidious feeling; that deep darkness he had always been defined by which others had used against him. He had thought it before, and now felt rejustified: they were all misfit toys here in Lacrimosa, and that might be what made them stronger. Most of all, he guessed at Corry’s past. What was it that her pack had held against her…or more importantly, what had become of her ‘weak’ pack? “You have nothing to regret? Good. Because that’s all the past is good for: regretting over. Let’s just make something worthwhile for the future.” For a split second, his orange orbs took on a glow of slight ferocity, as if there was something worth fighting for among the wilderness now. The patchy information about Corry’s history was almost a hook, as he now wanted to learn more, but evidently there would be times to ask about plenty more. For now, he wasn’t going to push at too many limits. Vault had only realized now, as he glanced upward over normal eye level, how much deeper in from the perimeter of the packlands they had seemed to migrate. “I left early in life from my kingdom, and I’ve turned out fine…that is, for those who consider going rogue from your pack, even if it is for your own beliefs, to be fine.” Their conversation had brought a standstill, as Vault looked up to where Corentine had moved ahead of him, trying to search respectfully for what was being kept closed within her emotion.

Subject: Re: .:. Lacrimosa Lake Sun Nov 06, 2011 8:40 pm

She noticed the lessening of words to say. It wasn't a bad silence; probably the closest thing to a companionable silence as anyone here would ever get to. Vault probably also noticed the way she blocked eye contact with him, but she didn't turn around to be sure. Corentine nodded to show she had been listening. They were close to where she had left Evanescence and Solara. In fact, they should within sight any minute. There should have been plenty of time for the two to have finished conversing about the task their pack mate was to perform.

"I think I see our alphess over there. I'll take my leave if your task is a confidential one," she spoke up after a few minutes, slowing her steps. She could finish exploring the lands while patrolling if she wasn't needed here.

Subject: Re: .:. Lacrimosa Lake Sun Nov 13, 2011 10:33 am

Vault looked to where Corentine seemed to indicate the direction in which the alphess and Solara were meeting. “I doubt it’s considered confidential, just important. Come along if you wish.” With that, he moved around her form, trying to look straight ahead and not into her eyes. He assumed what had been on her mind was her business alone, and there was not a point in seeking it right now. Impulsively, however, he gave one final glance behind him as he led into a jog towards the lake…He felt the gush of wind against his recently dried body, and it was only moments before the trees gave way to openness, with sand-clay and the stillness of water. The lakeside area was desolate, the only thing populating the packlands being the inaudible voices of distant figures. Evanescence and Solara were under trees just off of the shore. He slowed to a walk, as he was only about 100 meters from them, his paw pads almost echoing against the earth. He grasped his ‘objectives’ gingerly in his maw still, prepared to give more intel.

Subject: Re: .:. Lacrimosa Lake Sat Dec 10, 2011 1:02 pm

.:. Lacrimosa Lake - Page 7 5049282235_6c6c1d1bb3

"I'll leave you to think about it. Let me know when you leave," Evon said after Solara's silence. There was plenty of time to kill, as Evon's plans weren't for a very long ways off, but it was always beneficial to have things done without apprehension. She turned into the falling rain; it dampened Nikolaos' and the new wolves' scents, but they were still on their way. Now, what was there to do? Corentine and Vault were roaming the lands, Mort was still fetching a whelp (hopefully, he had caught one by now), Chimera was still recruiting members, and it was not yet time to return to Fire and Ice herself. Her stomach was still full from the meal earlier, and there was no point in bathing, especially since it was already raining. She was well-rested, and carried herself strong, as an Alpha should.

Auds twitched at the sound of nearing footsteps. She looked over and saw Corentine and Vault. Vault looked as if he had gathered more supplies. "Come now, I won't bite," she chuckled, blue eyes shining in the dark. No, what she had in mind for Vault, now was quite the opposite...

Subject: Re: .:. Lacrimosa Lake Sun Dec 11, 2011 7:00 pm

Vault noticed Evon had finished speaking with Solara, and her words hit his auds. As he finally reached her, he nodded, spitting out the various articles of plant life with force. He looked into her icy orbs, and realized the pain in his jaw from having to carry the flora for so long. Vault moved his lower jaw to one side, showing his surprisingly white fangs, considering all the dirt and mud he had been sifting through before. He was answered with a loud crackling coming from his mouth, almost as though it had been popped back into place. He exhaled after his short-lived stretch, the air around him becoming warmer than the cold dampness that had subsided. “Alright, let’s begin.” He separated the nut-fruit from the purple cone flower. “In honesty, I’m not 100% sure what this is, but it works. Probably something from the Myristica family. Anyway, it appears to have basic neurotoxic effects and symptoms on anyone exposed to it directly. So, uh, don’t smell it. It causes hallucinations, memory disturbances, bad eyesight, and euphoria, for I would estimate around 24 hours. There is no doubt in my mind it has lingering effects after initial exposure, most likely a few days. I’ve concluded it would take a lot of exposure to the toxin to kill, but it can easily incapacitate something the size of a wolf. It nearly knocked me out after a few seconds, and it ravaged some poor lemur I tested it on. The tree fruit is even a natural insecticide; I figured that would be useful information.”

Vault indicated the flower separated from the nut-fruit. “Purple-Cone Flower works best in minimizing the symptoms, almost like getting rid of the flu.” He had been talking for a while, or at least a while for him, and let his words sink in. Vault thought about his task, and how this monotony of going out and bringing one poison back was likely not the most efficient way to go about his business. He could stand to stay away from the packlands longer if it meant obtaining more items, couldn’t he? There was no absolute goal; just find as many as possible. His maw closed tight and he looked straight ahead at Evon, as he waited for any direction from his alphess.

He realized how loyal he was to Evon, how he had never done that before, and how strange it seemed to follow direction...

Subject: Re: .:. Lacrimosa Lake Sun Dec 11, 2011 10:15 pm

She didn't respond to Vault, merely followed him closer to Evanescence. It seemed as if Solara and Evanescence were just finishing up her business, judging by the last sentence she overheard. It was pretty good timing for those who believed in coincidences.

After a few seconds, it appeared the alphess herself didn't mind Corentine's presence, either, so she stood nearby in silent vigil, listening to the conversation. It sounded as if Vault was appointed some herbalist- poison if it was more specific than that. He also sounded pretty well versed, judging by the length of his explanation for what had been in his jaws this whole time. She turned her attention to the water falling from the sky. It appeared the storm either wasn't going to pass through this area, or will in due time. Either way wouldn't matter, now that she had recently felt a storm again. Corentine always had that almost uncontrollable rush after a long period of perfect to relatively decent weather. Now was a waiting game of sorts to see if she was needed, and she was content to banish her more fun-loving side until it actually had a use again.

Subject: Re: .:. Lacrimosa Lake Wed Dec 14, 2011 8:22 pm

Evon smiled as Vault dropped the plants. She already knew what they were, but it was good to hear that Vault knew what he was doing; he wasn't playing guessing games like an experimenting doctor. She nodded and looked him in the eye. "You no longer need to report your findings to me; I was wondering how much knowledge you had on these herbs, and you have exceeded my expectations. However, I will ask that you continue to collect for stock purposes," she said. "But, that probably wasn't much of a challenge, was it?" She had no doubt that he was expecting more difficult - Mort had the task of killing whelps and Corentine had taken on a giant wolverine pack, afterall. Proving brains was just as important as proving brawn. "Which is where your real test comes in," she said with a nasty smirk. "While Lacrimosa has an abundance of herbs, it's a waste of time to try and collect them all, not to mention energy... It would be easier if we could just get them after they've been collected, wouldn't it?"

It wouldn't be too hard for Vault to catch her drift. She glanced at Corentine, not at all minding her presence - in fact, she preferred it. Corentine, as her personal bodyguard, needed to be present for anything that happened. And, well, it would keep the femme entered... No need to have her getting bored, now, because that would only lead to trouble. Evon knew from personal experience. The white wolf rolled her sleek muscles on her shoulders. "Tell me, Vault. Have you ever been to Tirisfal Valley?"

Subject: Re: .:. Lacrimosa Lake Fri Dec 16, 2011 10:07 pm

Vault had only felt Corentine’s presence near them now, but it was ignored, because what Evanescence said could not be ignored. Things were getting more interesting; the ‘parental advisory’ had been lifted. His top fangs clenched down on his lower brown lip hard. Too hard. He could feel the warmth of his rushing blood underneath the skin, just waiting to be unleashed. His maw turned into a grin, and the devious determination in his eyes was hard to hide. “No, I don’t,” he said in his normal cunning tone, “but I know where it is.” He almost felt the need to go off now and plan a way of assault on the unsuspecting wolves in the valley. If all went well, he could get into Tirisful and get out without disturbance. It wasn’t anxiousness; it was understanding, for the true test had begun. “…If it proves necessary, is a license to kill authorized?”

Subject: Re: .:. Lacrimosa Lake Sun Dec 18, 2011 1:22 pm

She could see it - that hungry gleam in his eye, though he kept his body still. It was in every wolf's eye when he had the thought of killing. It was now that Evon gave him a smile of one of her most wicked. "If that is necessary..." she replied. "But you see, assassination won't be your prime objective. Your prime objective, here, is stealth. I need a wolf that can sneak past defenses without being detected. And, to help your herbal supplies, you need to steal the supplies that their healers have. Tirisfal is renown for its healers. Let's see if that's true... In addition, this will be a solitary mission. You will be harder to capture this way." The test sounded easy enough, but it was a test that many Lacrimosa wolves had taken to measure their stealthiness, and had died in the process. Pure wolves, when protecting their pack, were just as vicious as any dark wolves.

Evon's auds twitched, hearing Nikolai's voice grow closer and closer. She regarded Vault one last time. "Take all the time and supplies that you need. If you run into Chimera, ignore her, or attack her, given the situation. She'll know who you are." She turned to Corentine; a silent request for her to follow. She then traveled the short distance to Nikolai and his single follower... Huh, she had been expecting more than that. But she knew she would have to make due with what there was. She looked at the pale yearling, his face wrenched up in a perpetual scowl, as if he had tasted something foul. She looked to Nikolai. "Well done. Take a load off, for now, and I will tell you of your reward when you are fully rested," she said, dismissing him with a nod of her head. He looked tired, but not exhausted, and it had not taken him too long; Evon guessed that it had been a rigorous journey. She turned to the yearling. "And who are you?" she asked, ears perked and form tall. Her tail curled over her back. It didn't matter that he had come here willingly, and it didn't matter what his age was - she was the Alpha of the lands, and she would hold that from the moment he stepped in them.

OOC: Okay. I shot Mikalai a message two weeks ago, and she hasn't replied to anything since August. Her post on the OOC boards also say that she will be absent for a while. So, for now and as with any inactive member that's playing an active wolf, Nikolai and Solara are going to be sitting on the side. I'm not powerplaying or any of that, just trying to keep things moving while Mikalai is inactive. Just thought I'd clarify. Also: Evon is speaking with Rob.

Subject: Re: .:. Lacrimosa Lake Thu Dec 29, 2011 1:51 pm

Vault had simply nodded silently at Evon’s lyrics as she dismissed him. He was apart of a mission far greater than what he had been doing before, and his determination drove him to prepare to a higher extent. First, he walked ever so calmly and slow into the highest depth of the lake that he could still stand upright. Only the top of his bristled brown neck and his head remained above the surface, as he stood still with his eyes shut and waiting. He let the submerging of dark blue water take away the debris from his body. At one specific moment, his angry looking orange orbs jarred back open, and he trekked right back out of the lake and into the nearby trees. Searching each arbor, he came to the evergreens, and eventually to what he was looking for: cedar branches. He clasped them in his maw tight and hard, ripping clusters of cedar bows from the tree with a twist of his neck. All of his collections were placed into a flat array on the ground. Then, Vault retracted his long pillars and fell onto his back, proceeding to roll his dripping wet form back and forth over the branches. He knew what he was doing would look strange to the average observer: a wolf who, after just bathing, rolls around in a bunch of leaves on the ground like a pup. But he enjoyed the thought of confusing any curious onlookers who had seen him go into the forest and had no clue what he was doing. He was hiding his scent, perhaps one of the greatest assets in getting passed wolves undetected. Next, he stomped his paws in thick brown muck that dried between his pads, turning his prints into undistinguishable blobs. Finally, he arrived back to his pile of newly gathered plants, carefully rubbing his fangs in the deadly nut-fruit shavings, ready to stop whatever got in his way in its tracks. Vault was ready. He was prepared to move in one straight shot over part of the mountain range down into Tirisfal. If he couldn’t return the same way he came, he could always loop around the far ice shelf and see where that took him. Like that, Vault galloped from Lacrimosa into the forest heading north.

Subject: Re: .:. Lacrimosa Lake Thu Dec 29, 2011 9:15 pm

She gestured for her to follow, and follow Corentine did, following a little closer than an advisor would, but not as close as a bodyguard. Her distance, to outsiders, would cast the illusion of Corentine being an adviser and good friend, her distance compromising familiarity and formality. A body guard would be much closer, an unconscious reassurance to the bodyguard that their charge was safe and they'd be right at the action. She knew an assassin would know these unconscious quirks, and would be able to pick out a wolf being protected and find a counter-measure. Advisers weren't expected to have the reflexes of a bodyguard, so an assassin would generally approach more casually, knowing they'd have to work fast, but not as fast. This would allow them to conserve any extra energy they'd need for fleeing the scene on the chance a wolf unaccounted for popped up. She could never be a ranked assassin herself, due to her nature and weather conditions needing to be perfectly stormy, but she was aware of how they typically worked. She also felt comfortable with this distance, because she could react fast, and Evanescence herself wasn't helpless.

Nikolai was back, she noticed, with a... young wolf. Older than a whelp, but he sure looked like one in her eyes. Her features remained as neutral as they normally appeared, waiting to see what would unfold. Although there shouldn't be any problems, she, nevertheless, kept alert to the present wolves and also to their surroundings.

Subject: Re: .:. Lacrimosa Lake Wed Jan 04, 2012 5:36 pm

Robbie had looked about and could not help but in a critical mindset. He had set off with Chimera but in the end he was alone and without friend. He did not know who to name these wolves and his 'guide' had not been much help as of yet. A stirring of movement caught his eye as a white wolfess made her way towards them. His attitude didn't change but he found his body give into a unconscious submission before he corrected it. After all, he was not of this wolfess's ...group, he wouldn't quite call it a pack. And his father and mother were pretty much second in command at home. So he showed casual respect, not defiance but neither was it an acknowledgement of superiority. She posed the obvious question and in his moody adolescent tide Robbie almost held back the answer to spite this blue eyed vixen. Realizing his situation though he cast his gaze to just under her own and replied in an even tone. "My calling his Robin Junior." He would not supply anymore information at the moment. He still felt uncomfortable without Chimera here and he was unsure of why he felt so hostile. His ilk was born from one of the pure packs, his demeanor was supposed to be friendly. His brother's death had changed all of that though..

What another wolf would see was a brooding yearling barely past his puphood and just starting to grow into his own. He had a fair promise of bulk from his fathers side once he filled out but for the time being he remained slightly awkward and very inexperienced looking.

Subject: Re: .:. Lacrimosa Lake Fri Jan 06, 2012 12:52 am

There was much turmoil in the young blood's eyes. Evanescence did not know what he had been through, but it was enough for Chimera to sniff it out and bring her a decent pupil. She smirked, seeing that glint of defiance in his eye, already strong for someone so young. "I see," she said, walking a circle around him, examining him. It was an opening position, one where if he retaliated he would likely attack, but the white witch walked without fear; for not only was she strong, but so was her watchful bodyguard. He smelled of the land that she had just sent Vault to - Tirisfal Valley - and.. it was all very curious. Then again, she had asked Chimera to venture to each of the packs and to bring forth recruits. Even just by looking at him, plans began to take place in her mind, seeing his potential. "And I am Evanescence," she said, blue eyes never straying from his form. "You don't need to be on your guard before me. I can't say much for the others, though; they will not hesitate to kill you. I sense that Chimera has seen something within you. She is my beta and personal advisor. When she returns, you will learn the rest of your fate. Any questions?"

Subject: Re: .:. Lacrimosa Lake Wed Jan 11, 2012 10:09 pm

Robbie wasn't sure how to take this fem, she clearly expected obedience but with Chimera since having left him he felt vulnerable and willful. Chimera was supposed to guide him and help him out. Instead he was being faced with a longer wait for his answers. What could this fem have to offer him? He wasn't even sure of anything but the anger that was inside and perhaps of the husky fragrance of Chimera's coat, how it felt when she pressed against him...All the more reason to be upset that she wasn't here. Eyeing Evanescence his scowled deepened, "And how long will it take for Chimera to return?" He was impatient for answers...and impatient for her. Why did this happen? How he come to feel so possessive over this fae? His mind edged to anger at the idea of her not being there. Robbie was being battered with a tumult of confused intense feelings. It made him look all the more moody and sullen. Little did he know that his attitude might need to shape up around wolves such as these.

Subject: Re: .:. Lacrimosa Lake Thu Jan 12, 2012 1:16 am

Evon watched his scowl deepen. Though he smelled of Tirisfal, something along the way had made him take a very wrong turn. But where one's heart laid had no purpose - Lacrimosa sought only loyalty, and a strong loyalty at that. "Chimera will return when she is finished with her task," Evon replied, cobalt eyes sharp and her voice calm. There was no need to give the yearling any more information than that. She wondered why he seemed so... attached to Chimera. Had they courted? He was so young... and it was unlike Chimera to participate in such meaningless actions. She made a silent word to herself to speak to the fae upon her return. While Evanescence encouraged social interaction within the pack to make them stronger, any intimate ties were a threat; any couple could gain power and then turn in whatever direction they pleased. She kept her gaze locked on Robbie. "And no, I'm not going to tell you anything else, simply because I don't have to. Get used to it. And don't whine that it's because you're a yearling. Lacrimosa does not take whelps. Understood?"

Subject: Re: .:. Lacrimosa Lake Mon Jan 16, 2012 3:20 pm

Robbie watched Evon unsure of what to make of her. He knew that she was not like anyone back at home and Robbie had never had much experiences with wolves outside his own pack. The trip to the Black Pearl had been disorienting and now this? Thrust into a place with unknown everythings! All he wanted was to find that his brothers killer and tear him limb from limb..his father was not there to protect them and it was up to him to avenge his little brother. His heart clenched at the thought of his sibling..blood staining the earth. For a moment he felt his eyes stinging but some instinct pushed away his weakness. You didn't show weakness to those who were not pack and even then...He kept his eyes levelled with her for a few tense moments. Until they flicked away, his tail lowering slightly. "I don't even know what Lacrimosa is.." He muttered. Would it be so difficult for someone to give him answers? He was frustrated and tired and this damn sand was under his coat! He shook his pelt half heartedly trying to loosen it up.

Subject: Re: .:. Lacrimosa Lake Tue Jan 17, 2012 1:37 am

So many emotions flitted through the young bru's eyes. Anger, frustration, sadness - Evanescence could see his inner turmoil as if it was written all over him. It had been some time since she had dealt with a younger crowd... The last whelp she had come across was Chimera, who had been perfect for molding, and before her was Lunarshadows... My, my, what time had passed. When Robin Junior said that he did not know what Lacrimosa was, she smiled at him, blue eyes twinkling in dark delight. "Then you have very much to learn, Robin. That is what Chimera brought you for, is it not? You seek revenge on someone that has wronged you. And here, in Lacrimosa, I promise that you will learn these skills..." she said in a soft voice, and sat back on her haunches, curiosity blooming in her mind. Younger wolves were always interesting things, and she knew that if you didn't tell them the right information, they would reject it. "Because you see, all of the other packs in these lands condone that sort of thing... I'm pretty sure that the pack Chimera brought you from would look down on it. Or at least, I'd assume your parents would." She shrugged, entering a more casual mode of conversation; it was a side she had not expressed in a while, not since her days of espionage in ~~Avithine Lotric~~ Midnight Meadows. It was good to exercise when the chance was given.

Evanescence tossed her head in the direction of the wide, placid lake. "In addition, take a dip in the lake. It's refreshing, really, especially after a long journey. Think of it as a very small self-initiation to get rid of the scent of where you came from," she said, knowing that the best way to convince the yearling was to give him what he so desired. Corentine was still at her side, and she had no doubt that the fae would think her behavior to be much more welcoming than it was to the other wolves currently residing in Lacrimosa, but everyone had their own ways of working. At face value, everyone was different - but underneath, everyone had commonalities that made them ever-so-easy to exploit. Everyone had desires and dreams, no matter how twisted. It was just a matter of finding what those desires and dreams were, and then using a bit of leverage, so that she would have the advantage. It was what made her a master manipulator, afterall, and she would continue to hold that title as long as she was alive... Which, at this point, felt like it could be forever. And she had zero qualms about that.

» Lacrimosa!