.where the yellow brick road took a different turn. [Main Bo

Number of posts : 724 Registration date : 2009-01-10

Petra listened to Blade as he spoke, her large, dark ears pointed towards him. Her curved tail waved endlessly, just being in his presence, hearing his voice, despite the bewildering situations of their pack. She smiled with a small chuckle as Blade mentioned what would be in the best interest of the pures, like he cared, and then tried to justify himself. He did not sound very convincing, and she assumed he knew it by the look on his face. There it was, one of the many things she loved about him - he was different, not some arrogant, bloodthirsty beast like the many that had come and gone from these lands.

She was about to speak after he had suggested sending a message to Cinder's pack, clearly hinting to himself as an escort, when Cinder herself suddenly came running by. Petra became alerted to her sudden presence, pricking her ears. It seemed she was going off herself to relay a message, and hadn't the time to stop and explain. Petra quickly piped up though, hoping her friend would be alright on the trip alone. "Travel safely!" she called after the small femme, and watched her go as quickly as she'd come. It seemed that at last things were being sorted, and the pack was calming down a bit. Still, she wasn't a leader, so she didn't know what else needed to be thought out and decided. She just glanced to Blade, her leafy green eyes blinking admiringly at him, then padded over to the food that had been waiting for the pack.

"It seems Akiko and Cinder have figured that out themselves," she said. It was a little bit unfortunate, since it would have been a nice adventure for them all, but now it seemed there was a bit of time for them to spend doing whatever they wanted. As she stood by the ram's body, she flicked her tail to Blade, ushering him over; certainly he must be hungry? As she waited, she glanced over to see a familiar face, one that she had always found rather peculiar, and had somewhat feared in her younger days. She remembered him from when the pack had fled the lands, and wondered where he'd been all this time. But she would leave those questions for others to ask.

.where the yellow brick road took a different turn. [Main Bo - Page 5 Bloodeye-1

.where the yellow brick road took a different turn. [Main Bo - Page 5 Bloodeye-1

Bloodeye had returned to the corpse after confronting Akiko, keeping an ear out for any useful information being given. There was little, and most wolves went off on their own private duty. She caught glimpse of Eris as she interrupted Akiko, and smirked over at her. She remembered sharing a few short words with her when she'd first arrived, and hadn't minded the time spent with the femme. Despite this, she was not going to seek her out. Instead, her attention had fallen upon a newer recruite, a large black hessian, his blue eyes captivating. Zaiaku.. she caught his name. He looked a lot like the father of her own children, but she knew he was someone else.

She did not miss him, but she knew that he had been strong. What of this brute, though? For the moment, he'd been accepted into the pack, and Bloodeye assumed he would pass any test that was thrown at him. She raised her head as some other members of the pack returned to this meeting place, then took off past them. She was not needed here. She was going to seek out the brute of interest, for she was drawn to power. She followed the trail of scent he'd left behind, and the trampled undergrowth. She moved swiftly, with her tail and head even with her shoulders and back, until she spotted him. Tail and head rose again, and she approached him, glancing him over quickly before coming up alongside him.

He was moving quickly, as though he'd sensed someone coming, and wanted to avoid them. But she wasn't going to be ignored, despite his attempts at evasion. "Greetings, Zaiaku," she said as she matched his pace, marching at his shoulder, "I caught your name when you entered the clearing; mine is Bloodeye." Scarlet orbs examined him carefully, watching for any signs of interest or anxiety, or perhaps plain old dislike. She didn't want to be caught off guard by anything.

Junior Admin Number of posts : 1050 Registration date : 2009-01-12

Blade suddenly saw a blur run by, and noted that Cinder had called to them while leaving. After Petra responded, he voiced, "Make sure you come back alright!" and nodded when Petra suggested that everything had worked out. It would have been nice to get out of the pack lands if only for a change in scenery- not like he didn't like the trees here. Nearly all the old timers in the pack have some so... not including the little flight from the fire.

He watched as Petra turned to head for the food and beckoned to him, so he followed. Turning his head, he muttered, "Crow..." There was a wolf you don't forget if there ever was one. His gaze returned to her, subtly scanning her body actions for tensess, wariness, or fear, though she had clearly grown since then. Travel did much good for a wolf.

"I hope not to jinx it," he started, "but perhaps this is one of the few times as of late that we can finally catch up? I'm a bit interested to know what you've learned from being away." He stopped in front of the carcass and looked at her. Perhaps it was just his imagination, but it also looked like she physically toughened a little as well as mentally. Yes, travel does do wonders unelss the wolf in question had traveled their whole life. Then learning doesn't seem to be as intruiging as learning to live in a pack.

Paws brought him forward, leading him where ever he pleased. Nothing of interest was truly occuring, not within the woodland atleast. The scent of the vix has faint, and he had little interest in it. If only, to greet another in the pack. Other wise, she held no interest to him. Considering he had yet to meet her. His pace was light, but quick. Strong pillars carrying him along the terra, pushing his way through the foliage. Just as easily as he had scented the first fem, another one came ot him. The scent stronger, and luring. Not ahead, but behind. Auds pricked at the voice, and at the sudden appearance of a vix. His thoughts raced, and he withheld a smirk. Already he had prospects, though he knew she wouldn't approve of the term. Blue lanterns swivled along her frame, quickly. A mild interest filled him, enough to enjoy the company.

"Greetings, Bloodeye." Deep lyrics, perhaps nothing in them, or many things. His pace slowly, now leisurely padding along. So were the days of his youth, when he had been 'prince charming'. A disgusting title for him, one that he mocked himself for. He had been told, if only to fuel pride in himself, that he had been the most handsom of the litter. A string of words that he found amusing, while irrelavent at the same time. All of that had been then, none of it was now. Zaiaku had no long any interest in playing king, and having anything. Spoiled, if by his own greed. It was a different time, and an entirely diffrerent place. His gaze has yet to spot any of the females, other then Jaded and Akiko. Now he would have time to greet the others, or one of the others. "How long have you been in this pack?" With having been in it for little time himself, he wondered about others. The history of a pack could date far, Zaiaku knew little of the lands of Fire and Ice.

Legend eyed Akiko harshly. 'Oh yes, play the small card, can't we all?' he words were to himself, in his own mind. He wanted to lash out at her, to scold her, but she was older, she was alot more intune with the combative ways of life. He growled in his own mind to himself. His temper would get the better of him, his father was right about him in one way. "Akiko. I do not hold any grudge against Cinder. If I did I would have never stopped when trying to kill her before. I've grown since then, even if it were so short of time ago. And infact. Since Crow has returned. I have a little mission of my own to put him on." His words were slightly fierce and he turned from Akiko with a nod. "I'll be back." Legend turned away from Akiko while giving her a final nod.

Legend walked over towards Crow. "Wanna go on a little mission? It seems I have to prove my self worth around here." His attention was brought to the white hessian before him. "You don't have to, but I'd like to escort our new friend home safely." He looked past Crow to the trees. "She resides in a pure pack, but will be training here with Akiko, plus. I have to make an appology to the poor female. I tried to take her life. It'd be nice to have more help along the way if you so choose to come, If not, Akiko is free now to speak to. I will return shortly. Then we'll speak more. Hopefully get the pack together for some kinda of...spar?" he smirked and walked past the white demon.

As he left the scenic area of home his mind drifted towards one thought. Eris, and why he thought of this female he had no clue.

Bloodeye grinned toothily as he responded, his eyes seeming to just eat her up as he gazed over her. He was handsome with the voice to match, and it seemed to her that he was certainly interested in her, if only for one thing. But what was she to do? Bloodeye was not the type for relationships and bonding, not after the betrayal of many before him. Still, she felt herself drawn to him and unable to resist the strength that drew her to him.

"I've been here only a short time," she told him, flicking her tail, "But I've been here long enough to know a little about the lands and the pack members." She wondered what he hoped to gain from knowing this; she wondered if he had plans of his own in this place. She smirked inwardly at the thought of an overthrow, but she wouldn't get ahead of herself. She might as well find out from he himself what he intended to do here. "So, why did you come here, Zaiaku?" she asked him, orange-tipped tail twirling in the air.

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

Petra grazed lightly upon the meat before Blade spoke, in which case she raised her head again to listen to him, licking her lips. She nodded to him as he spoke. It might finally be their time to catch up from the many times they'd been interrupted and kept apart. As he looked over at her, she wondered what he was thinking. She tilted her head, quirking one curious brow. Her mind shifted to the things she'd learned though on her journey. She had met different wolves in the pure pack, and had heard news of what was going on in that area of Fire and Ice.

"Well, I'm not sure what information could be of use to you," she said, giving a slight smile, "But feel free to ask anything you can think of. We can talk over dinner." Her eyes narrowed with satisfaction that some time was theirs to spend together. They could eat, and relax or do whatever they wanted until something else came up. She was just happy to be able to spend time with him, and share the meal she'd helped to catch. She shifted herself closer to him, enough so that their pelts brushed, and felt a warm rush of happiness flood over her. Anxiety seeped through the cracks of her good feelings, and again she couldn't help but to wonder if he felt the same. If it was possible that something could go right in her life.

.where the yellow brick road took a different turn. [Main Bo - Page 5 Jadedf11

As soon as she crossed into the packlands Jaded's nose was to the ground. She needed the scent of blood to help rid herself of Damean's scent. It was the last thing she wanted to do, rid herself of his scent, but she would do so to protect him. She came to the creek and lapped up some of the life giving liquid before jumping in the cool water for a bath. She ran the water over her head in a duck-like fashion. When she was done she stood and shook her tawny pelt ridding it of the water and then a scent came to her nose....fox. Her emerald eyes snapped in the direction from where it came. A young foolish fox had crossed into Jabbar territory, big mistake and perfect excuse for Jaded.

The fox was busy nosing around in the undergrowth to notice her stalk. Slowly she tread closer, her pelt dripping water. That was what caught the fox's attention and when he looked up he saw a nightmare. Snarling he ran, Jaded pursued. The young fox was no match for her ivories. Upon grasping him, he let loose his bowels in fear. Not Jaded's favorite thing, but fox dung was potent even after a wash and should cover up her secret. The fox snapped and yelped begging to be let go, Emerald eyes grew cold. Forcing the small male to the ground, fangs found his throat and a spray of crimson now stained the ground. Now she could relax. Stepping away from the body, which she left as a warning to others, she made her way back to the creek once more, washing herself, then padding toward the dens.

It didn't take long to get there and even after a few shakes of her coat she still was wet. She looked at the scene that lay before her. Bloodeye was talking with the newcomer....then her eyes caught Petra and Blade. She stood watching them for a few moments and was glad for her friend, Blade. She hoped they could steal some time for themselves. They certainly deserved it. Looking away down at her pillars her heart sang for Damean and grew jealous at the sight of the pair. She hoped he would call for her soon.

Then she wrinkled her nose...she reeked like fox!

Long enough to know, more then what Zaiaku would. Hues drank her frame in, increasingly finding her attractive. Of course his mind was on one thing, relationships had never been something Zaiaku was good with. Most of the fem's he had bred with held no place in him, some were placed in other brutes. It amused him, in his sick way. The fact that he had taken another's, yet it had not been their's to begin with. The fem had only liked the other male, who did not act upon it. So who was Zaiaku to deny a free fem? He could be truly sadistic at times. A short time, but long enough to know. Perhaps she could tell what was missing in the land, it was still nagging him. Why, Zai didn't know. To come to a conclusion would settle his mind, and he would no longer dwell on it. For now, he would try and understand it. It would be obvious to any new arrival, just by looking over the wolven of the pack. Something flickered in them, making it clear that an event had occured. One that had effected them. He had seen it in Jaded, and then all others once he was in the land.

Her last question lingered in his auds, and blue hues wavered a bit. Why had he arrived, why had he left his homeland. To learn something, to become different. Yet, he hadn't changed. Not at the moment. It was truly an interesting question, that he had not answered yet. Contemplation was needed for such a question, something he had chosen to avoid for the time. To start anew seemed like the logical answer, it described his answer well. "Tell me, Bloodeye. Was there a previous alpha then Akiko?" Zaiaku asked, he wanted an answer. Hope was that the fem knew. If his suspicions were true, then it was a ditching alpha. It seemed like the only reason for the missing part in the land, the sudden disappearance of a leader. It amused him a little, if only because he was the same. He had no negative sayings towards this ditching alpha, because Zaiaku could relate.

.where the yellow brick road took a different turn. [Main Bo - Page 5 Crow10

Crow was unable to respond further to Legend's thoughts before he got himself
caught up in a seemingly unnecessary confrontation with Akiko. He sat around for
a few moments, but couldn't be bothered to listen for too long. He saw Eris skulk
away and concluded that she had heard their conversation. He chuckled to himself,
then quickly followed. Immediately making use of his noted spy skills, he slipped
around and beneath the underbrush. He imagined himself as Legend had described
and for a moment was proud of himself. At least someone recognized his skills.
It was nothing now though, as he preferred to not bask in his pride. Eris was
close ahead, so he created a semi circle-around her, incredible speed taking him
at least a quarter of a mile around before he was by her side but invisible behind
the bush and trees.

His voice was a low murmur as he watched her behind clown marked eyes.
"Suddenly I heard a tapping, as of someone gently rapping, rapping at my chamber
door..." He could barely hold back the almost crazed laugh trying to force its way
from his throat. He stepped out before Eris, thorns pricked, tail waving slowly. He
raised a brow, right eye mark twitching upward just slightly. "You heard me rapping,
right?"

.where the yellow brick road took a different turn. [Main Bo - Page 5 Akiko11

Eyeing him sharply she bristled slightly when he informed her that he tried to kill Cinder. Something that Damean would obviously frown upon. He continued talking and when he abrutly turned away to go on his 'mission' Akiko's lip twitched in desire to snarl. She would not tolerate Legend to act in such a manner again and he was lucky that she had been fond of him. Though with his recent temperant she was reconsidering. Hues flashing to the hessian he referenced and recognized the bru but she was in no mood to discuss with him.

Turning about she stalked away anger flashing in her hues. How on edge she was.
Ah Damean, where has you mind gone?

.where the yellow brick road took a different turn. [Main Bo - Page 5 Eris210

Eris stalked lithely through the forest her emerald hues flashing. How boring this place proved to be! Pausing for a moment her ears flicked and she glanced about herself. Normally the forest did not get quite so quiet when there was only one wolf about. Sensing nothing else she continued on. A shriek of a bird came from above that with the quiet of the forest still seemed to be natural but Eris recognized the call. Hues flicked up to the Peregrine falcon that was to the left a ways and new that there was someone near her. Such a faithful bird, strange how it just knew sometimes. Watching it's careful flight path, when it was almost above her she was not surprised when the hessian stepped from the bushes.

Raising a gray brow she halted forward progress to listen to his words. A chuckle escaped her muzzle. "Such lyrics are strange to be coming from a carrion eating crow when they belong to the predatory raven, don't you think?" Amusement played lightly in her hues. Her tassle flicked and she noticed that Altair took her perch nearby.

Crow released his laugh after holding it back for what seemed like forever. It was
short but plenty insane. "Ah, so you know the verse well. I'm just not sure if I
should take your words to heart as an insult or a statement of fact. True they
belong not to the crow, but am I not a wolf, a predator in my own right?" He
loved the way he could turn a question, shift it so it made sense, at least in his
own mind. With a cock of his head at his own question, he looked up to see first
the falcon sitting above them, then his beloved scavenger perching just opposite.
It gave a single hearty caw, as though it were reminding him of its presence, then
eyed Altair warily, as though it were yet unsure of how to react to this aviary
being. It mimicked it's master, still deciding if this were friend or foe.

Crow looked back down to the femme before him, observing briefly the jade hue
of her optics before speaking. She reminded him all too much of Myca. His black,
ghostly lips parted, lyrics questioning with a genuine and nearly friendly interest.
"You know my calling quickly though I have yet to know yours. Tell me stranger,
why is it you scoff and turn away from Legend? You both seem to have a
resounding disinterest and dislike of one another. I question this with brazen
curiosity." They shared no common markings, but this female seemed to reflect
his demeanor just slightly in their choices of friends and manners, and he truly
was excited to see how she reacted to him striking up conversation as though he
knew her. From what he knew, he considered Legend a friend, but had yet to
hear the objections others held toward him. He was predicting arrogance.
Selfishness. Narcissism. But he was no psychic. It depended on Eris's words to
set his opinion, and even then he would have to weigh his information on both
sides. What a silly thing to make a big deal of, idle gossip.

She narrowed her eyes as he spoke, avoiding her question with wavering blue eyes, though he seemed to have thought about it for some time. Was he hiding something, or had he only half a plan, and needed more information? Bloodeye felt no harm in giving him what he wanted, whatever he asked. Damean had left them all, abandoned them like so many had abonded her. He did not deserve loyalty, not from her. "Akiko is no alphaess, merely a beta," she told him forwardly, "But Damean left us, the coward. She has no choice but to take over." Her words were growled out, truly despising traitors. "I don't take kindly to leavers and betrayers," she said, though it might have already been obvious in her tones.

Her demeanor changed, tossing away the negativity for the moment, replaced by curiousity. Why did he ask about this? There must be something deeper than what she could see, some intention behind those cool blue eyes. Her head canted to the side, her orange muzzle splitting as she let her voice slip forth once more. "Why did you want to know, Zaiaku?" she questioned him, a devious smile slithering upon her maw, "Does Akiko not seem fit for the time being? Do you wonder, somewhere deep down, what it might be like if these wolves were to follow you instead?" Or do you already know? she wondered, Do you anticipate the feelings of helplessness from those who are too weak to oppose you? Or do I just have you all wrong?

Perhaps she was too trapped in her own mind, her own thoughts and feelings. Maybe that was what she wanted for herself. She had always ruled, and it felt much too peculiar to follow and wait for others to give the order for action. Her claws sunk into the ground suddenly, and she almost began to foam at the mouth as realization set into her; the chance was all hers for the taking. These wolves, what would they think? What if she were to have an accomplice? Then, would it matter what anyone thought? She looked at him sharply, perhaps sharper than she had meant to, but she couldn't help but to wonder about him. He looked strong, and he was handsome, but was his soul as corrupted as hers? Would he seize power at the opportune moment? "What do you think of that, Zaiaku?" she asked him more seriously, unknown thoughts and emotions flooding into her blood-red eyes.

As he twisted his response to divert any possible insult, though she had truly hadn't meant any, she smiled. A smirk played around the corned of her lips, the very points of her teeth just showing. At these first verses she granted him a chuckle and commented. "Aren't we all dearest?" She could play this game of casual familiarity with the best of them. Aud flicked as the caw of the crow sounded but she did not take her eyes off of the brujo. If she were to her eyes would see her faithful falcon ruffle its feathers and look upon the other raptor warily.

Brow raised at the mention of Legend and their dislike for each other. Taking all the time in the world she actually leaned forward to stretch her lean form, her spine popping delightfully, then reclined into a sitting postion. With her ashy plume wrapped firmly about herself she was ready for conversation. "Brazen indeed." Pausing she continued. "I bear no dislike for the pup." Though the title of pup was in itself an insult. "I just find his arrogance misplaced and he is haughty like a beautiful she wolf that knows she is thus." A smile again graced her muzzle and she could not but laugh. Again laughing she continued. "I find it even more amusing that he acts such without any claim to royal blood." Something flashed in her eyes but it quickly vanished, the unknown emotion.

Tilting her crown to the side the wind ruffled her volcanic ash pelt and queried. "I pray that I have not slandered the brute too much if you find kinship in him." Lyrics had a bit of a false edge to it.

Her lyrics amused Zaiaku, and proved him right. There had been another alpha, and he had ditched. Reasons unknown probably. He'd have come up with reasons of his own, for leaving his pack. Yet, his mind wouldn't allow him to. There was nothing back there, and yet everything. Was it the adventure of finding another place? Hardly, Zaia wasn't to interested in much adventure. Less it led to another thing of more interest. The amusing part of the information he got, was her chosen words of hating traitors and ditchers. Which all to well described the male before her, though she not of it. The interest in her was filling Zaiaku, informing her of his own deeds wouldn't help. He had found that missing piece in the land, the reason why so many seemed distant. The feeling of something missing was filled, because someone was missing. Zaiaku doubted much of his old pack missed him, it happened the same way in Jabbar. His beta had probably taken the lead, with copious joy. Zaia remembered having trouble with the bruja, having fought him many times. Losing wasn't an option, it meant losing everything. Even after all the challenges, Zaia had kept his beta as that rank. The male was tough, beta was good enough for him. Now, he probably followed in Zaia's actions. Taking any fem for himself, hording the food. Past, not present.

Fit, the 'alphess' was fit. Her size was merely used as a deceiver, which Zaiaku found interesting. If Akiko had been but a beta, then playing the part of alpha wouldn't be to hard. The sudden shift off power, could be intoxicating. To know you control the decisions, and the lives, of the entire pack. It was power. One that Zaiaku wanted once more? Even he was clueless to the answer. Her form, and her words, so far Zaiaku was being pulled toward Bloodeye. Beauty, a word to describe her appearence. Perhaps a sinister beauty. Her lyrics seemed at times playful, which amused him. The thought of controlling the wolven in the pack, had yet to cross his mind. Though it seemed to just click in hers. He had led wolves before. A wicked pack, most of his homeland was shadowed. The pures had been driven off, to be replaced by the dark. It had been 'fun' in any sense of the word, to attack the packs. A few fights inbetween alliances, but never anything to harsh. Stealing the vixen, taking them from their pure lands. What was it that drove him away from that life.

Sadistic would be an understatement for darks, and sinister was a bit cliche. What went through the mind of a pure, that was all to different then a dark. Power? Lust, greed. Anger, and envy. Words that could describe any wolf, pure, dark, or neutral. It didn't matter your alignment, all could feel the same. Though he doubted pures thought the way he did, and the way Bloodeye was. Her stance and attitude told him everything, the thirst for power. Perhaps it was a reason he left his homeland, the power got to him. He did not recall ever going drunk mad on power, not like what his former beta would be doing. Sure, he had used the power much. Taking hold, and never letting go. Yet, he had never been uncontrolled. Zaiaku liked to think himself a calm and collected wolf. Though he could just as easily snap, and tear a throat out. "Fit for the time being, is right, love." Lyrics finally spilled from his maw, a little flirtation in them. "It would be a matter of opportunity. The pack is on edge, and all seem a little vulnerable. Due to the lack of a alpha, a real alpha." He played along. It was matter of time, for now it was all plans. The beginning of plans.

An earnest smile crossed his face. Crow found amusement in the way she spoke.
"Dearest? I like that. Haven't heard that one in... ever." Crow listened intently to
Eris's explanation of her feelings toward Legend. He laughed when she did, taking
the description lightly. "I have heard about his lack of royal blood. But if we didn't
have some one to take out our irritation on then imagine how bored we would all
be. Every group needs an arrogant boy or girl doesn't it?" He chuckled. Everyone
he hated was like that. Arrogant, the best at who they were, what they did. But
Legend didn't have a streak like they did. It didn't hurt him to hear the femme's
objection to his acquaintance.

"I take no offense by your words. It seems if I were to know him long enough I
would be just as annoyed with him at some of the others around here. How could
I take offense from an opinion?" He smiled, then looked up at Altair and his crow
again. Curiosity overwhelmed him, and he had to ask. "If you'll permit my
questioning, where did your bird come from? I'm sure there's a backstory."

He seemed content enough with her response, not that she would care either way. "Indeed it does. Though if he keeps acting like such we may find our group lacking in said individual." The threat was there but it came out playfully. Listening to how he was not offended she idly nodded her crown. Then he questioned her bird. For a moment she looked at him curiously and then she just looked resolute. Of course he would take notice of her faithful little bird. He no doubt paid more attention to all manner of winged beings.

Glancing up at the silver lined falcon she smirked. Issuing a low noise from her chest the bird cocked its head and looked at its mistress. Then meeting her gaze she dove from the tree spreading her wings elegantly and alighting on a banch much lower and closer. "This dearest, is Altair." she smiled proudly looking at the raptor. "As for the venture of services she bestows me,why it is as simple as gaining the loyalty of a dog. I fond her fallen from the nest and naturally I followed the distressed calls of an animal." Pausing she looked at the bird thoughtfully. "Instead of eating her, I fed. I do not know what drove me to do so but it all worked out in the end." Eyes flicked to his own crow. "What of you? Did you change your name to match?" Her lyrics were merely teasing. "Or were you so named for the crow?"

.where the yellow brick road took a different turn. [Main Bo - Page 5 Rawbones-1

So, where had he been all this time? Rawbones had been gone, searching for purpose, something which seemed not to exist for him. All had been lost for him here in Fire and Ice, so why had he returned? Even he did not have the answer to that. Maybe it was that this was the only place that felt like home, even if everyone he loved was gone, never to return. Even if there was nothing left for him. But maybe, just maybe, he could live out his last days peacefully in this place. He did not know what he was going to find though, when he arrived back in Jabbar Junayd. He did not even know of the change in name and scenery.

As he entered the lands, his weary paws carrying him strongly regardless of his age and his hunger, he looked around with slight uncertainty, pace slowing. Was he in the right place? He scented the air, recognizing a dark aroma that had always plagued the lands, and thought perhaps his vision was playing tricks on him. He continued on, trying to keep his wits about him. His ribs peeked through his rough coat, now a permanent mark of his appearance. His scars showed more visibly through his thinned fur, and he looked more rugged and aged than he ever had; and yet, the silvering fur around his maw and his hazy vision were not enough to stop him from being what he was.

Once he began to recognize some landmarks that went unchanged even by the fire, he stalked the lands with the air of authority he had always held in this place. His home. He breathed in the air deeply, sighing with content. Still, he wondered if anyone was here that he recognized? At the moment, he could not even recall anyone of importance. His mind seemed to have fled him for the moment. Another of his 'elder' moments.

Suddenly, he spotted someone stalking through the woods, and his tail flicked upward. She seemed to be moving quickly, fury flowing off of her in waves. To him, she appeared as an angered wraith floating through the woods; his eyes could barely keep up with her form as she kept going. She was the first sign of wolven life he had seen, so he headed for her, his lean legs carrying him with wiry strength towards her. He was huffing by the time she came back into his hazy sight, but he kept going, moving toward he ivory siren. "Wait!" he half-called, half-howled, racing after her. He hoped she wasn't too angry to just keep going and ignore him.

He came up alongside her, towering over her; looking down at her, he seemed to recognize her petite but deadly form. Then he noticed her electric blue eyes, and he smirked. "Akiko, you're still here," he said, his voice probably louder than it needed to be - his hearing was failing him too, and he had troubles telling the volume of his voice, "Do you remember me?" He didn't know if anyone remembered him, if he'd been significant enough a part of this pack to be kept in the back of anyone's mind. Deep down, he sorely hoped he hadn't been forgotten; if fate was fair to him, anyone who'd known him had missed him. But who was here that might recognize his old, scarred face? He would have to find out through exploration, but it started here with her, Akiko.

Bloodeye smirked at him, her orange-tipped tassel swishing through the air. He was playing his cards right, not only with his words, but with his tone. She caught the flirtation that flowed from his mouth so easily. She watched him for several moments, letting his words sink in. He seemed to think it might be a good time to seize power, but he didn't seem as interested as she; yet she knew he could see it in her. She had always been a Queen, never a peasant within the ranks of a pack. It disgusted her to have to submit, and hold her tongue when so often she had made others hold theirs or pay the price.

She moved away from him slightly, glancing at him over her shoulder. "Yes, they are vulnerable," she murmured, looking to the woods, "But not enough so. They are a strong bunch, a worthy pack. So many are pathetic and weak, but I can see it in these wolves, they are something different. But that's what makes this task so daunting; they are powerful as a unit." She remembered when Damean had so strongly proclaimed their strength; it was true, they were bonded and they could work together, and would easily overthrow any attempts at a seize of power they did not agree with.

But if she were not alone, it would give her all the better of a chance. And surely not everyone would hate them? She looked to Zaiaku again. "I would never be able to lead alone with a group like this," she said, shaking her head, "Not everyone here is so fond of me. But... with a helping hand from someone strong and daring..." She trailed off, quirking a brow mischeviously at him. Would he catch her meaning? He seemed quite the thinker, and she didn't doubt that he would understand what she meant. But she wasn't sure if he would agree, or if he would see interest in her own goals. "Ah, the title of Queen..." she said softly, "I just wish it were mine again... but this time I need a King." And with that she ceased speaking, staring at him with a wild fire burning in her eyes.

Leading a pack was easy, seizing it from vulnerability was another. Her words were true, the pack wasn't weak. Vulnerable, but not weak. Even he could see that. Tartarus was not vulnerable, nor weak. His beta had taken care of everything, most likely. Vulnerability had been tossed away, because a new alpha presented himself. Zaiaku smirked, he still had pride in his former pack. If indeed his thoughts were true about it. Strong, and still going. More then likely being dictatored, but that was what Zaiaku himself had done. No place for the weak. So what of Jabbar, what would it be like to lead the land. Rule, in a place he had thought he wouldn't. Was that what kept him different then Bloodeye, her thirst for power. While, he himself had left the power. Surely, any wolf would seize power upon opportunity. So, what kept him uninterested. Or was he merely holding back.

It would be a challenge, an entertaining one at that. He already knew most would disagree, the more loyal ones. Akiko would be an obstacle on her own, and he did not doubt her strength. The others, he wasn't sure about. Their loyalty could've been shattered a bit, by the disappearance of their former leader. Broken enough to allow a new leader, Zaia was unsure. A beta. Zaiaku knew they were tough, and cunning. His own had challenged him a lot. Of course Akiko would fight, she was loyal to the land. Two against a pack was rough, suicide almost. If he prided himself greatly he'd call himself a good warrior. Bloodeye appeared to be strong, she would be able to put up a fight. Of course, then there was the pack. Bloodeye was right, they were not weak. It truly was a worthy pack, strong and cunning. So what fueled the fem to think to fight the pack, to dominate them. Had she thought of all the situations. It was possible, to befriend some of the pack members. Perhaps bring up the idea, bribe them with a high rank.

Lyrics poured forth into his auds, and a slight smirk danced across his maw. Blue lanterns once more obsorbing her frame, perhaps with a bit of lust in them. He couldn't deny her beauty. The offer to be her king stood, which caught his attention. It was clear to him, she wanted help. Perhaps it was the whole reason for seeking him out. He had been in the lands for less then anyone else, and she had been in it for only a bit longer. Curious, had she been planning before his arrival. His time in the land only seemed like another obstacle, his trust lay with none of them. Trust and loyalty came with time, something he did not have yet. Of course, without them knowing him well. Meant it was a possibility for seizing, in that way they could trust and become loyal to him. "King has been my title before, why not take it back." Blue hues catching hers, what would she think. If she would even understand his meaning, a former king. Mitts brought him only a step closer, a dark smirk. Everything seemed a bit playful, and yet serious. "So then, love, how do you intend to go about this?" That little bit of flirtation was still in his lyrics. Curious, he was truly curious. How would this go?

Blade responded, "Does all information have to be useful to me? Perhaps they're useful to you. Perhaps you need to voice out what you experienced for it to make better sense or for you to apply it." He took another chunk of meat before continuing, "Maybe you figured out where your heart really lies, maybe that there really are more shades of grey than the neutral that falls right between white and black. Maybe you've grown more independent physically as well as mentally, maybe a development of new ideas."

His tone became a little more serious, "I don't know. Only you know what you've learned. It's good to have a little bit of time to reflect and think, else you'll pass over these seemingly little things and regret future actions you could have avoided." He smirked grimly, saying, "I've regretted much, especially as of late."

~Jaded~

Looking away from the happy couple, Jaded then gave the densite another once over. She wondered where Legend had gotten off too. Akiko was gone too. Maybe they were in conference? Jaded sighed and wrinkled her nose once more. OH what one does for love! The fox scent was a poor subsitiute for Damean's. She wished he would have told her more. His voice saying that he loved her but at the same time it was like he was afriad to trust her. Damn Lilith...she said her name like a curse and knew that she was the reason.

She sighed and her emeralds found Blade and Petra once more. How easy it seemed for them once they got things figured out. Looking away her eyes found Bloodeye and the new male. Something about the pair sitting there speaking as they were gave Jaded an uneasy feel. She had come to put aside her differences with Bloodeye for Exodus's sake but now Exodus wasn't here. She cocked her head and looked away. She would have to mention something to Akiko....maybe. If Akiko would even listen to her. She felt that she had lost some respect in Akiko's eyes for her break down. Licking her maw she trotted over by the creek and took a long drink. The cool water dripped from her chin as she looked at the smooth running water then she turned away and layed down facing the dens. The babbling of the water of the stones was soothing and to Jaded at least they seemed to sing Damean's name. With half lidded eyes she lay there and awaited Akiko or Legends return.

He had mearly nudged her back softly once she licked his cheek. He didn't quite know how to react to such actions from a female. It's not like he hadn't been wanted by wolfess before, it's just he hadn't wanted one back like he wanted her, and this strange brute didn't know how to quite react to such a thing. He sighed and carried a swift pace into the lands, evey so often he'd look back and circle around her once before taking the lead again and scouting before their path for any danger.

This pack was very... calm for darkness that so claimed them. Cullen looked sideways once before he saw a femme walking alone (jaded) he walked over slowly, taking time to look back at Symphony and slowed his pace. "Excuse me" he said roughly, and came up before her. "I'm Cullen, and this is Symphony, we wonder who takes part in these lands to accept us into this...'home', and where might Damean Jager be?" he was direct to the point, he needed his answers and somewhat for some reason...quickly.

~Jaded~

Jaded looked up as a rough voice hit her auds and she stood quickly. Emerald eyes found the bearer of the voice and shifted to see his companion. The words Damean Jager caused her heart to cleanch. She still didn't understand completely why he was doing what he was doing...a full explination would help for sure. She shook her tawny pelt free from the sand she was laying in before she opened her maw, glittering eyes revealing no emotion.

"You are in the lands of Jabbar, kind of foolish I would say just to wander in without annoucing yourself. " she added secondly with a coolness to your voice. "My name is Jaded. Come with me, Akiko will see to you and give you more answers." And she flicked her tail in summons. She wouldn't answer his question about Damean, she didn't 'know what Akiko was telling newcomers and didn't want their stories to cross. It would look badly. She padded away quickly picking up Akiko's trail.

The newcomers probably thought Jaded stunk to high heaven...smelling like fox as she did. She had to do somthing about that and quickly. The white vix came into view and she had a companion, whom seemed somewhat familiar. "Akiko." she called and then flicked her tail for the new pair to halt before padding closer to their newly made Alphess. She got close to the white fem and spoke softly to her. "They seek acceptance into the land and are asking after Damean." She met Akiko's icy blues with her emeralds hoping Akiko would get that Jade hadn't told the new ones anything yet. She stepped away and sat on tawny haunches then let her gaze rest on somewhat that was familiar but she knew only fleetingly.

Eyes flashed when a voice called out for her to 'wait'. Pausing in her step she turned and appraised the woods, hues locking onto a hessian whom was trying very hard to catch up with her. Fur bristled at the emaciated wolf that came towards her, he looked half crazed and with the scars that marked his frame it made her uneasy. Though when he called her name with familiarity her dial titled and she looked at his scarred mug once more. He spoke louder than necessary and her auds flicked in annoyance. Then her anger was disarmed, her jaw gaped slightly. "Rawbones?" She questioned though now that she looked she could see that it was truly him. "Where have you been, I-" Her words snapped off and her head turned to see Jaded stalking towards her. Pausing she leaned towards her to accept her message and nodding her eyes found two necommers that Jadede mentioned.

Frowning at them she spoke, her voice once more having a hard edge to it. "What are your curses and have you come to join the ranks?" Azule eyes watched them curiously.

Crow let his eerily handsome grin spread overlong across his face. The pet name
again. Though it sounded funny to him now, he was sure he would get used to it if
Eris kept it up. He turned his attention to the regal raptor perched by the fatale's
head. "She truly is an impressive creature. You've done well to raise her. No doubt
some motherly instinct was involved." He looked to his own ebony friend, proud in
his heart, but knowing that to any other wolf the bird would seem all too common.

He quickly caught on to Eris's teasing but left himself serious. "Allow me to be brief
for both our sakes. I was exiled by force from my pack and met my companion after
we both went after the same carrion. I took the name of the bird after he began to
follow me around." He thought back to the occasion and it made a smirk etch its
way onto his features. "I was formerly called Eric, but I thought that being named
for a creature known for its resourcefulness and readiness to improvise was a bit
more fitting. Not to sound arrogant..." He let the sentence trail, leaving it open to
answer for a moment before finishing it off. "My parents had an odd taste in names.
The whole pack sort of did. I guess a unique name is more fitting for a unique
looking wolf, right?"

Bloodeye matched his smirk, watching his eyes as his gaze swept over her form. Yes, she was more than certain now that he had taken an interest, but how far would his curiousity bring him? She smiled darkly as he made mention that the title of King had been his before; so, she had been right about that. He had felt what it was like to control the lives of others. But as he spoke, he seemed to be hinting something else as well. He seemed willing to take his place as her King, whether it be in literal terms or not. Her orange-tipped banner swayed in its often-times sensual manner, excitement and a flush of different emotions racing through her veins.

As he asked her how she might go about this, the wheels began turning within her mind. Though she had longed for power, she had not spent much time dwelling on it, for it had always seemed out of reach; but that was when Damean had held the throne and worn the crown. Now he was gone, and Bloodeye had come upon a male that just seemed to trigger everything within her. He seemed powerful and she was drawn to it, while his handsome body and visage, along with his subtle charm, just drew her in further in a different way. But now, she must wonder what the best method would be if she were to capture an entire pack.

Then something clicked in her mind. It would take them much precious time and patience to gain the trust and loyalty of many packmates; it would simply be much easier to gain powerful allies with no current alliances, and get their help in taking over. And she knew just where to go, somewhere she had once lived when she'd first arrived in Fire and Ice. Although she knew the rogue pack had disbanded moons ago, Bloodeye thought there must still be at least a few rogues wandering the lone lands. Someone out there must long for power amongst others. Giving a short chuckle, she looked up at Zaiaku, "Well, my dear friend, I know just where to start," she replied, leaving the rest a mystery, "Follow me, if you wish. These times call for a trip to the desert." He probably did not know what the purpose of going to a desolate place such as that was, but that was all part of the fun.

Flashing him a mischevious smile, she turned around, brushing her tail over his muzzle before she took off toward the borders. So far she held no rank in this pack, so she assumed she wouldn't be missed if gone for a while. It was not long before her slender paws were taking her to the lone lands, leaving the lands of Jabbar Junayd behind for now.

Number of posts : 7 Pawprints : 27 Registration date : 2009-07-05

Symphony

Symphony moved with a the grace of a dancer. Each step, each movement was fluid and beautiful. Like an art.
Eyes shifted from side to side as she followed Cullen, a soft chuckle pressing through her lips whenever he would
circle her. She wasn't quite sure why he did it, but she found it rather amusing and....cute...in some sort of weird
way that she didn't care too much to put any thought into at this point in time.

When they came into the lands they approached another canine, not wolf but fox. Symphony cared not of what
species the cousin was that they spoke to, so she paid no mind to the fact. For now she allowed Cullen to speak,
not for a lack of courage but more because he was the one looking for answers. She was too in some ways, but not
like he. She was looking more just for a regular place to rest each night for now, the hunting of history would
come later for her than for Cullen.

Tail gently glided to and fro behind her lazily as they followed the red tainted cousin to another canine. This one
white and very much a wolf. The alphess to be exact. Symphony gave a gentle bow of her head in a respectful
greeting "I am Symphony m'lady" lyrics danced in their sweet melody from her lips when asked their callings.
Symphony was a proud fae, and stood tall with the stance of the warrior that she was. Head was high and
shoulders squared as if poised for battle, but her tail hung low now as they spoke to the leader, letting her know
in their silent language that even though her body might show challenge, she had no actual meaning behind it.
Submission was evident in some parts, but the hardened fae within her kept the dominance in others. Sure she
would be respectful, these were not her lands afterall, but the fact she would not tolerate being pushed around
oozed off of her in a way that would not cause a fellow fae to fear her but admire, while intimidating away beasts
that meant her harm and attracting those who saught a mate who was in control of herself.

Symphony was no average fae, the glowing blue eyes spoke that much for themselves. Though her features were
soft her gaze was sharp and alert. Thorns pivoted on her head to take in the sounds of those around them, and
though her gaze looked around with a lazy ease she was memorizing everything around them, so that if trouble
struck she knew exactly where everything was. Photographic memory worked to her advantage that way. It was
a good trait though, hell they were in dark lands afterall.

{ On With Hope To The Grave }

.where the yellow brick road took a different turn. [Main Bo - Page 5 Gorgeous-1

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