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ooc; For those who wish to join the Alyxio League. :) Please post asap.

And there he stood, a victor settled upon his own lands, his old and new home. To think that a nameless rogue would rise to meet his destiny as a king -- Fanul never would have imagined, for power was never a thing he desired. Then how did he wind up with this plentiful and rich land? This kingdom that needed a worthy ruler to take up the throne? He had fought tooth and nail for Lemures Mountains, and he devotion called him victorious. But was this wanderer, this sleuth and ranger who slipped through the shadows, bound to this fate? He had no royal blood, not that he knew of, and he was only here for his dear Antoinette who so cherished the mountains. If he had to become a king to protect this precious land, then he would, but he would do so on his own conditions, to his own liking. So he lifted his head to the wind, a mighty purr in his silken ears. "Come!" Fanul howled, beckoned and cried. He remembered Alyxio as a god his lost love once wove into stories, and so he thought the name fitting. "Come and share with me your talents and skills. Magicians and artists, champions and prodigies, philosophers and musicians! We will be the Alyxio League! And together, we shall be great." He meant what he said. He wished for the most apt, the craftiest, those who had a knack for expertise and finesse. He commanded them to a place where they could use their talents so he could form an exceptional society, a temple for warriors and spies, a haven for herbalists and wizards, a home for alchemists and assassins. Those of a darker nature were also welcome, for they had a different view on society and life. Fanul would find a place to use their talents, and they would flourish in the land that was given to them, encouraged to continue honing their skills and working in their studies. Innovation and variety were encouraged, and there would be no criticism for new ideas until they were acknowledged. "Fanul howls."

Table by Yahtzee

And there he stood, a victor settled upon his own lands, his old and new home. To think that a nameless rogue would rise to meet his destiny as a king -- Fanul never would have imagined, for power was never a thing he desired. Then how did he wind up with this plentiful and rich land? This kingdom that needed a worthy ruler to take up the throne? He had fought tooth and nail for Lemures Mountains, and he devotion called him victorious. But was this wanderer, this sleuth and ranger who slipped through the shadows, bound to this fate? He had no royal blood, not that he knew of, and he was only here for his dear Antoinette who so cherished the mountains. If he had to become a king to protect this precious land, then he would, but he would do so on his own conditions, to his own liking. So he lifted his head to the wind, a mighty purr in his silken ears. "Come!" Fanul howled, beckoned and cried. He remembered Alyxio as a god his lost love once wove into stories, and so he thought the name fitting. "Come and share with me your talents and skills. Magicians and artists, champions and prodigies, philosophers and musicians! We will be the Alyxio League! And together, we shall be great." He meant what he said. He wished for the most apt, the craftiest, those who had a knack for expertise and finesse. He commanded them to a place where they could use their talents so he could form an exceptional society, a temple for warriors and spies, a haven for herbalists and wizards, a home for alchemists and assassins. Those of a darker nature were also welcome, for they had a different view on society and life. Fanul would find a place to use their talents, and they would flourish in the land that was given to them, encouraged to continue honing their skills and working in their studies. Innovation and variety were encouraged, and there would be no criticism for new ideas until they were acknowledged. "Fanul howls."

Table by Yahtzee

And there he stood, a victor settled upon his own lands, his old and new home. To think that a nameless rogue would rise to meet his destiny as a king -- Fanul never would have imagined, for power was never a thing he desired. Then how did he wind up with this plentiful and rich land? This kingdom that needed a worthy ruler to take up the throne? He had fought tooth and nail for Lemures Mountains, and he devotion called him victorious. But was this wanderer, this sleuth and ranger who slipped through the shadows, bound to this fate? He had no royal blood, not that he knew of, and he was only here for his dear Antoinette who so cherished the mountains. If he had to become a king to protect this precious land, then he would, but he would do so on his own conditions, to his own liking. So he lifted his head to the wind, a mighty purr in his silken ears. "Come!" Fanul howled, beckoned and cried. He remembered Alyxio as a god his lost love once wove into stories, and so he thought the name fitting. "Come and share with me your talents and skills. Magicians and artists, champions and prodigies, philosophers and musicians! We will be the Alyxio League! And together, we shall be great." He meant what he said. He wished for the most apt, the craftiest, those who had a knack for expertise and finesse. He commanded them to a place where they could use their talents so he could form an exceptional society, a temple for warriors and spies, a haven for herbalists and wizards, a home for alchemists and assassins. Those of a darker nature were also welcome, for they had a different view on society and life. Fanul would find a place to use their talents, and they would flourish in the land that was given to them, encouraged to continue honing their skills and working in their studies. Innovation and variety were encouraged, and there would be no criticism for new ideas until they were acknowledged. "Fanul howls."

Table by Yahtzee

OOC: I figured I would just post here now. I hope that is okay (:She was excited to be back in Torva, excited to be back in the place she had fallen in love with in the first place. It was written all over her face, the joy that she expressed, the desire she had to be back in this place. Torva was her home, and she was ashamed of herself for leaving in the first place. She would never leave now, not when she was just getting used to being here again. If she were to find Fanul, then that would give her even more of a reason to stay. She was glad to be back, to breathe in the same air that her friends breathed in, to breathe in the air that Caelius breathed and that her love did. As her paws sunk into the soft soil, she smiled, her white figure caught in the sunlight. She was aching to run, to gallop across the land and howl her joy at being home, where she belonged, where her heart lie. This was it.She carried herself quickly, trotting across the land, increasing speed as she raced through the mountains. She whipped her head around, jumped up, like a horse with a mad rider on his back. She was ready for everything that Torva was to throw at her this time, and she would face it with all of her body dug into the ground. She would not let go of her home this time. As she ran, she howled, and though it was soft, it was a joyous howl. Full of excitement and happiness and the desire to settle down once more. She was unsure whether Celahir or any of the packs were still around, for she had disappeared right when they were building up. Perhaps some of her old friends were still around and she could meet up with them again and once more get to know them. She hoped so, for how wonderful would that be?Suddenly, another voice joined the skies and Antoinette halted, almost tripping over herself as she did so. Could it be so that the voice she had just heard was Fanul's? He had disappeared for a short while and she had been convinced that she would never see him again, and here she was, hearing his calling. She bolted towards the noise, her heart pounding hard in her chest, almost enough to break open her rib cage. Her bursts of energy were aimed into getting to that voice. And there, there he was. He was regal, his fur blazing in the light, looking as stunning as a ruby in a mine of coal. Antoinette nearly thought she was going to faint, seeing him standing there. Her tail began to whip around, and she ran towards him, a big smile on her face. She listened to his words and grinned wider, for the name Alyxio was from a story she had learned as a youth, and was the story she had told Fanul the first time they had met. An Alpha was he becoming, now? So much had changed!Antoinette further approached, slowing as she did so, until she stood before him. "It seems to me as if I've found something that I had lost.." She grinned, then bowed before him, for he was the Alpha of the new found Alyxio League. "Alpha of your own pack, congratulations, my King," "Antoinette purrs." Table by Yahtzee

Of course! ^_^

A bruised chest, minor cuts on his lips and gums, a sore wound on the side of his neck -- these were all battle scars, distortions in his supple flesh that resulted from his fight with the tyrant who had attempted to claim the lands of his beloved. It was well worth the effort because Fanul drove the brute away with a fierce pounce and growl, chasing him into the eerie forest as he howled his mighty victory. The stakes in claiming Lemures were high, and now that he earned his right as king, he did not know what to do with it. He was no lord, though he had his talents; he was a rogue, a sleuth, a fox who could outwit even the cleverest of wolves. So with a glance beyond the horizon, he decided that he would create a league of virtuosos, the talented who set themselves apart from the norm, and they would rise above all others in a band of prodigies. Their destines would be great, intertwined in an infinite web of splendor and nobility. This would be his new kingdom. His ears twitched and swiveled to catch the wisps of a hopeful sound in the distance. Upon inspection, he realized that he recognized that voice and his heartbeat quickened as he slid from his place on the mountainside to meet her. When he first caught sight of her, his golden eyes softened and a fox-grin reached his lips, blossoming into an expression of glee. Antoinette was just as beautiful as he remembered, a white maiden among the ghoulish world, a precious pearl that had been polished to perfection by the Gods' hands. He was so sure that she had died, left the mortal realm to join her forefathers, but here she was, as lovely as the purest of flowers in a winter seascape. He stopped several feet away from her, drinking her sight, her sound, her smell, her very presence in. "Perhaps I was the one who had lost you." She spoke, and then bowed, but Fanul would not have that. He reached out to her with his muzzle, dipping his wet nose beneath her cheek and lifting her head so that it was level with his. "King?" The foxish grin remained on his face. "I am not fit for king, but I can try if you would rule beside me." And he left it at that, a sanguine look in his eyes that told everything, softening from their normally wry gaze into something that was far more tender. "Fanul howls."

Table by Yahtzee

A bruised chest, minor cuts on his lips and gums, a sore wound on the side of his neck -- these were all battle scars, distortions in his supple flesh that resulted from his fight with the tyrant who had attempted to claim the lands of his beloved. It was well worth the effort because Fanul drove the brute away with a fierce pounce and growl, chasing him into the eerie forest as he howled his mighty victory. The stakes in claiming Lemures were high, and now that he earned his right as king, he did not know what to do with it. He was no lord, though he had his talents; he was a rogue, a sleuth, a fox who could outwit even the cleverest of wolves. So with a glance beyond the horizon, he decided that he would create a league of virtuosos, the talented who set themselves apart from the norm, and they would rise above all others in a band of prodigies. Their destines would be great, intertwined in an infinite web of splendor and nobility. This would be his new kingdom. His ears twitched and swiveled to catch the wisps of a hopeful sound in the distance. Upon inspection, he realized that he recognized that voice and his heartbeat quickened as he slid from his place on the mountainside to meet her. When he first caught sight of her, his golden eyes softened and a fox-grin reached his lips, blossoming into an expression of glee. Antoinette was just as beautiful as he remembered, a white maiden among the ghoulish world, a precious pearl that had been polished to perfection by the Gods' hands. He was so sure that she had died, left the mortal realm to join her forefathers, but here she was, as lovely as the purest of flowers in a winter seascape. He stopped several feet away from her, drinking her sight, her sound, her smell, her very presence in. "Perhaps I was the one who had lost you." She spoke, and then bowed, but Fanul would not have that. He reached out to her with his muzzle, dipping his wet nose beneath her cheek and lifting her head so that it was level with his. "King?" The foxish grin remained on his face. "I am not fit for king, but I can try if you would rule beside me." And he left it at that, a sanguine look in his eyes that told everything, softening from their normally wry gaze into something that was far more tender. "Fanul howls."

Table by Yahtzee

A bruised chest, minor cuts on his lips and gums, a sore wound on the side of his neck -- these were all battle scars, distortions in his supple flesh that resulted from his fight with the tyrant who had attempted to claim the lands of his beloved. It was well worth the effort because Fanul drove the brute away with a fierce pounce and growl, chasing him into the eerie forest as he howled his mighty victory. The stakes in claiming Lemures were high, and now that he earned his right as king, he did not know what to do with it. He was no lord, though he had his talents; he was a rogue, a sleuth, a fox who could outwit even the cleverest of wolves. So with a glance beyond the horizon, he decided that he would create a league of virtuosos, the talented who set themselves apart from the norm, and they would rise above all others in a band of prodigies. Their destines would be great, intertwined in an infinite web of splendor and nobility. This would be his new kingdom. His ears twitched and swiveled to catch the wisps of a hopeful sound in the distance. Upon inspection, he realized that he recognized that voice and his heartbeat quickened as he slid from his place on the mountainside to meet her. When he first caught sight of her, his golden eyes softened and a fox-grin reached his lips, blossoming into an expression of glee. Antoinette was just as beautiful as he remembered, a white maiden among the ghoulish world, a precious pearl that had been polished to perfection by the Gods' hands. He was so sure that she had died, left the mortal realm to join her forefathers, but here she was, as lovely as the purest of flowers in a winter seascape. He stopped several feet away from her, drinking her sight, her sound, her smell, her very presence in. "Perhaps I was the one who had lost you." She spoke, and then bowed, but Fanul would not have that. He reached out to her with his muzzle, dipping his wet nose beneath her cheek and lifting her head so that it was level with his. "King?" The foxish grin remained on his face. "I am not fit for king, but I can try if you would rule beside me." And he left it at that, a sanguine look in his eyes that told everything, softening from their normally wry gaze into something that was far more tender. "Fanul howls."

Table by Yahtzee

OOC: So.. Other people should post.. Join Alyxio! I also felt very mushy and sappy writing this.In that moment, Antoinette could have sworn that her entire life was complete. She felt wonderful, on top of the world even, and the feeling that accompanied the sight of Fanul was almost enough to knock her over. Her white body danced in the light as she tried to contain the movements of her tail, though it seemed as if her efforts were going to waste. Her eyes couldn't stay off of him for long, for fear that he was a mirage that had come to bring her an omen. But no, he was real, he was whole and physically there, in all of his majesty and grace before her. He had helped her escape from Renatio when she had been caught a slave, he had brought her to Caelius and ensured that she made it there safely, and he had even stayed with her there. And now, he was claiming lands under a name that she had told him.She bowed, though within moments his nose brought her face up to his, as equals. She was confused for a moment, she knew her feelings for him but they had never openly voiced them to one another, despite the body language revealing all there was to know. The angle of her body always aimed towards him, the focus of her eyes always being that Cheshire, fox-like face of his. When he lifted her face up, the emotions that had been bundled up inside of her released themselves, and with the words that left his lips a smile danced upon hers. If he was not fit for a king, she was not for a queen, but together perhaps the two of them would be able to manage the duties and the task that being Alphas brought to the table. "If that makes me a Queen then let it be so, as long as we part our ways no more," She grinned, touching his cheek softly with her nose, a slight nuzzle that brought the moment together.After a few moments, she released the physical connection between the two of them and turned herself so that she was now side-by-side with Fanul. She was looking at the world as he was, from behind crystalline, aqua-coloured eyes instead of fiery golden ones. This was the land that she had loved after Dieu had become another entity, and she was glad that she was here again. She was sure that there was nothing in that moment that could ruin it for her, not even if the Earth opened up and Hell took her to its depths to suffer for eternity. She had experienced happiness, and she would remember that forever. "Antoinette purrs." Table by Yahtzee

Nostalgia called him, drawing his autumn colored form over to the high reaching threads of the Lemures Mountains, their spikes taunting his violet eyes with their sharp edges. How he had known their depths, their secrets, only to have them taken away, lost when Caelius became Celahir and they had to move to the Northern Valley. Leaving everything behind like cowards… and all for naught. For where was this Simul pack that had drove them away? Where were the wolves? The mountains rang empty, the floating mist haunting and disturbing in it’s quiet absence. Life was missing, from these ranges, and it almost caused Cicero’s heart to break. How lonely he was, only to find some more lonely mountains. He wanted life, needed life, in order to survive. He could feel the edges of his hope failing, falling down into the black oblivion of despair. For what could he do, really? There was no hope, no life for him to cling to. Nothing but himself. And Cicero couldn't take such company for much longer. He needed something more.

And then, a ray of hope, in the most literal sense. A call of life, a howl, yearning for presence and company, ringing through his ears, echoing against the tall reaches of the mountaintops. Cicero’s body froze as shock flew through the vibrant violet of his eyes. And then panic. Was this nothing but his flailing imagination? Or was this true, something real. Should he run? The voice was familiar, but he had to wonder, again, if it was nothing but his fervent hope for something to come his way. Without a second though, the brute was on his cream-colored paws, ripping through the trees and sparse grass of the mountain sides, slipping and sliding, but making it, making his way towards the voices, those lovely chimes of sound. The world was a blur as he held his breath, afraid to breath, afraid to break this moment. But he need not fear. For there before him, was the orange wolf, Fanul, and the white angel Antoinette. How he came to see two familiar faces, and how they were both still alive… it was a miracle, to say the least. He slid unceremoniously onto the scene, his eyes flailing over their forms as they embraced, his ungainly and desperate form heaving to catch his breath.

”I-I found you…. You’re alive…”

Image by Jolee, table code by Ryne

What was this emotion pulsing through his heart? This sensation that burned within the depths of his tempered soul, a fleeting essence long forgotten... it all seemed to bear nobly on his fair facade. Fanul had found her, the one he should cherish for the remainder of his life, the one who would ground him from his travels and allow him to become a man and erase the remnant of the feisty rogue from his visage and mind. He would start a home with Antoinette in the land of regal kings and queens, conquering a kingdom that would eventually flourish and blossom into splendor and grace. And as the two stood together, shoulder to shoulder, paws planted firmly upon this good soil, they awaited the arrival of any other wolves who chose to cross paths with them, the chosen ones who wished to be a part of their vision. The welcome silence only lasted for a brief moment before a wolf stumbled forth, arriving with a pant in his breath as though he had raced for a while through the mountains. As he cleared the trees and rugged path, Fanul recognized his scent and his face. The fox slipped from his position at the peak of the mountain, pads moving swiftly to close the distance between himself and the newcomer. Cicero seemed baffled, happy, confused all at the same time, and Fanul had to forgive him that, for the rain of fire and thunder had likely shaken him, along with all those who belonged to Celahir. "Well met, Cicero," Fanul said, his voice a romantic baritone, smooth and rich. "Welcome back to Lemures, friend. We are glad to see you again." With his newfound power and determination, a more mature and noble Fanul surfaced, one that was more prone to deal with politics and speeches. "Today we begin a new era, the era of Alyxio. I invite you to join us in this dignified kingdom so that we may live in the days of peace and explore our talents and the arts." He paced toward Cicero and bowed his head politely, knowing that he would have to abandon his wily ways if he were to rule this league to its glory days. "Your skills will be appreciated." Would he choose to join the Alyxio League? There was an unspoken hope that he would, for Fanul needed members and fellows to help him with his task. "Fanul howls."

Table by Yahtzee

What was this emotion pulsing through his heart? This sensation that burned within the depths of his tempered soul, a fleeting essence long forgotten... it all seemed to bear nobly on his fair facade. Fanul had found her, the one he should cherish for the remainder of his life, the one who would ground him from his travels and allow him to become a man and erase the remnant of the feisty rogue from his visage and mind. He would start a home with Antoinette in the land of regal kings and queens, conquering a kingdom that would eventually flourish and blossom into splendor and grace. And as the two stood together, shoulder to shoulder, paws planted firmly upon this good soil, they awaited the arrival of any other wolves who chose to cross paths with them, the chosen ones who wished to be a part of their vision. The welcome silence only lasted for a brief moment before a wolf stumbled forth, arriving with a pant in his breath as though he had raced for a while through the mountains. As he cleared the trees and rugged path, Fanul recognized his scent and his face. The fox slipped from his position at the peak of the mountain, pads moving swiftly to close the distance between himself and the newcomer. Cicero seemed baffled, happy, confused all at the same time, and Fanul had to forgive him that, for the rain of fire and thunder had likely shaken him, along with all those who belonged to Celahir. "Well met, Cicero," Fanul said, his voice a romantic baritone, smooth and rich. "Welcome back to Lemures, friend. We are glad to see you again." With his newfound power and determination, a more mature and noble Fanul surfaced, one that was more prone to deal with politics and speeches. "Today we begin a new era, the era of Alyxio. I invite you to join us in this dignified kingdom so that we may live in the days of peace and explore our talents and the arts." He paced toward Cicero and bowed his head politely, knowing that he would have to abandon his wily ways if he were to rule this league to its glory days. "Your skills will be appreciated." Would he choose to join the Alyxio League? There was an unspoken hope that he would, for Fanul needed members and fellows to help him with his task. "Fanul howls."

Table by Yahtzee

What was this emotion pulsing through his heart? This sensation that burned within the depths of his tempered soul, a fleeting essence long forgotten... it all seemed to bear nobly on his fair facade. Fanul had found her, the one he should cherish for the remainder of his life, the one who would ground him from his travels and allow him to become a man and erase the remnant of the feisty rogue from his visage and mind. He would start a home with Antoinette in the land of regal kings and queens, conquering a kingdom that would eventually flourish and blossom into splendor and grace. And as the two stood together, shoulder to shoulder, paws planted firmly upon this good soil, they awaited the arrival of any other wolves who chose to cross paths with them, the chosen ones who wished to be a part of their vision. The welcome silence only lasted for a brief moment before a wolf stumbled forth, arriving with a pant in his breath as though he had raced for a while through the mountains. As he cleared the trees and rugged path, Fanul recognized his scent and his face. The fox slipped from his position at the peak of the mountain, pads moving swiftly to close the distance between himself and the newcomer. Cicero seemed baffled, happy, confused all at the same time, and Fanul had to forgive him that, for the rain of fire and thunder had likely shaken him, along with all those who belonged to Celahir. "Well met, Cicero," Fanul said, his voice a romantic baritone, smooth and rich. "Welcome back to Lemures, friend. We are glad to see you again." With his newfound power and determination, a more mature and noble Fanul surfaced, one that was more prone to deal with politics and speeches. "Today we begin a new era, the era of Alyxio. I invite you to join us in this dignified kingdom so that we may live in the days of peace and explore our talents and the arts." He paced toward Cicero and bowed his head politely, knowing that he would have to abandon his wily ways if he were to rule this league to its glory days. "Your skills will be appreciated." Would he choose to join the Alyxio League? There was an unspoken hope that he would, for Fanul needed members and fellows to help him with his task. "Fanul howls."

Table by Yahtzee

It was only a month ago that he'd left the lands of Acelle, where he'd been born in the Kirima Hills into the Akiak Pack. A pack which he could no longer consider his home, not since she had taken over. Not since Skillet Webb had murdered the previous Alphess. The lead should have gone to Xue or any of his siblings such as Tuyet, Krishna, Haukea, Fionnlagh or Lumi. Nicholas had already left prior to that and so would not know the tragedies that had befallen their once beloved pack. Perhaps however it was for the best and he'd sensed it was coming, but had said nothing. How would he have been unable to prevent a change in leadership and he hadn't seen Marie's death coming. Perhaps he had, but hadn't read his dream, his vision correctly. Sometimes it hid things from him and so if it really was an ability he held, it wasn't yet fully developed, he needed to train! Had he trained more before, he might have been able to stop what had happened or could have found someone to help them so that Marie's life would not have been lost, although she'd been seven years of age. She'd been going to step down and pass on leadership to one of her children he knew. It was after all the usual thing to happen, unless she'd found all her offspring unsuitable, but there was still yet others who shared her late mates blood that she could have turned to.

Skillet however wouldn't have been one of them, had they known what thoughts he'd harbored inside him. He too had disappeared however after he'd killed Marie. 'If not for his wish to find Nicholas, I'm sure he'd have taken over and we'd have lived through another dictatorship, like the Christmas Pack did when Phayte took over.' He'd never seen that pack, didn't know whether or not it still existed, but Phayte had been born twenty years ago and so was long dead by now. However those genes still continued. The reason he felt that the end of the Akiak Pack as it had once been was a good thing was so that all those wolves related to one another closely or distantly would not continue to pair up.

Now, he found himself in lands he'd never been before, at times feeling like he'd come close to a danger zone or being discovered by someone or something when he didn't wish to be discovered. He was looking for a particular place, personality, pack. He'd had a vision of the lands he should be on. A mountain range, often capped by snow. At least he thought there would be others there, why would he see the land in his vision only to arrive there and find nothing and no one? He was not a solitary creature and much preferred the company of others. Thus far however he'd seen no one, nothing but endless rock, crags and whatever snow at the top or whatever water below. Well, at least when he grew thirsty, he knew where to look.

His ears perked as he heard the sound of an unfamiliar howl. He didn't expect any howl in these lands he'd newly discovered to be familiar, he knew no one here. Not unless he'd been followed, but he was sure he'd have known, or at least sensed it if he had been. Perhaps he'd make new friends or someone who could direct him to the closest pack, of course if the pack wasn't to his liking he wasn't about to stick around. However, he followed the howl he'd heard and it led him to where the howl had come from. It was then that he saw, three very unfamiliar faces. It looked like a small gathering for a pack, perhaps at its very beginnings, he thought to himself.

Making sure his tail was low as well as his head he cleared his throat, “Pardon me my intrusion, I do hope I'm not trespassing where I should not be. I'm lost and looking for a new home.”

Antoinette wondered how things would change now. It was obvious what the two wolves felt for each other in their eyes, and it was obvious that they would rule happily as a single unit over this new pack. But what if no one else answered Fanul's call? What if they were left as Alpha and Alphess on their own, with no one to rule? She hoped that another wolf would come, to break the awkward tension that had begun to arise around her. A pack of two beings would not be a pack at all, but a pair of wolves with a territory to their own. What fun would it be running around an oversized territory for the two of them? She would certainly not mind spending a majority of her time with the orange male, for the emotions that she felt for him were too strong to ignore, and it would make her happy being able to live with him and enjoy his presence every day. She just hoped that they would have something to aspire to, and a pack would be a lovely thing to spend their time on together.At that moment, she was unsure of what was going to happen in her future. Pups? Simply living happily with Fanul? Guiding Alyxio to become one of the greatest packs in the existence of Torva? She was unsure, and while it made her want to second guess herself, as she glanced at Fanul she knew that it did not matter one bit. She was certain in him to choose the right thing for the both of them, and if he were to choose something that seems fishy to her, then she would certainly fix it and try to make it better. She was entirely capable of making mistakes, and so was he, and she was sure that together they would be able to eliminate most of those mistakes and become near perfect. As they stood there, side by side, another figure came to them. She recognized him as a member from the late Caelius pack, of which had been her home. Her heart hurt then, as she remembered how wonderful everyone and everything had been, how she had been taken away and then when she had returned everything had been different. She had endured so much hardship as a slave for Renatio, and then to return to wolves that she did not know and a pack that seemed so foreign, it pained her. She had been the Beta of the pack, and before she could properly help anyone out, she had been stolen. And as she had been stolen, so had her heart. And now here she was, to be one of the leaders of the Alyxio League.She smiled as Cicero approached, a welcoming gesture that wasn't unlike the humans with their outstretched arms for a hug. Fanul voiced much of what she was thinking, but as she looked upon the weary man, she had to add her own few words. "I hope that you are in good health, Cicero. It is good to see you again," Perhaps Cicero would return to Caelius' old home and live there with the couple, it would be wonderful. Perhaps a reunion was to follow, though Antoinette was unsure of how many past members of Caelius were still around in Torva. She hoped that there was a decent amount.Shortly after Cicero joined them, another male happened across the small gathering. Now there were four, and as Antoinette looked upon the new male, she realized that she was the only female. She was not sure whether to be happy about this or not, so she remained indifferent, secretly hoping that she would have a female friend to join her soon. "You are not intruding at all, friend. If you want a home with us then you are most certainly welcome to join Alyxio," Since she was new to this whole thing, she was unsure whether or not Fanul should be speaking, but she figured that it was as much her duty as his. "Antoinette purrs." Table by Yahtzee

The leading lady of this fine estate did not take long to answer him, though she and whom he assumed to be her mate had conversed with yet another who'd been there on the scene before he himself had made an appearance. He'd though perhaps they might run him off, though something had tried to tell him in the deep regions of his mind that he'd not be forced to leave, despite not having met any of them before or being sure that they were friendly rather than hostile. He'd had enough of hostility from those back where he'd come from after the chaos had ensued upon the loss of their esteemed lady Alpha at the paws and jaws of her late mate and childrens' distant relative. It was too sad a fate, but one he couldn't forget and swore that he'd not allow it to happen again anywhere he was a part of a pack if he could help it, were he able to somehow foresee it at all.

His attention was however upon the ermine lady and his ears perked slightly with mild excitement that he'd be allowed to join though they'd never before met him. “I would greatly enjoy that m'lady, if m'lord permits me in as well. My name is Sephiroth WindFlare and I've come from a far off land, at least my paws think it was quite a journey from there to here. What is Alyxio about and what tasks are there available?” He was a curious sort, but the more he knew, the more he discovered the better everything would be, because then he'd be able to aim for something and be a part of the pack more and more. Although it seemed small from what he could see, but it was a beginning and building a pack took time. It seemed to him however that they were off to a good start, but hopefully it would get even better, even larger. After all there was safety in numbers. Although a small group would certainly allow those within it to foster stronger bonds from early onset. Best if some already knew one another. Unfortunately, for now, he was the odd one out.

As Fanul exchanged words with the long-lost Cicero, his fair lady stepped up to speak with yet another newcomer who had heard his call. As he awaited a response from his former Caelius companion, he turned his attention to the large brute. This wolf was cloaked in garb of snow and silver, lustrous among the mountain chill; he was also mighty in size, standing above Fanul, who was quite average in build and body. This discrepancy in height did not faze the fox, however, who knew that he had claimed this land as his through an honorable fight by blood and sweat. This sort of battle was something that wolves of all walks of life held dear and would not violate its implication. A victory was a victory if fairly won. Fanul looked at the stranger with a prideful, curious gaze, molten orbs focused upon him in interest. He studied the one who introduced himself as Sephiroth, every curve of his body, every line and hair as if testing to see what he could do to be of service to Alyxio. "Hello, Sephiroth," he spoke. "As Antoinette mentioned, we would be glad to have you here in the mountains." The fox dipped his flaming head toward him politely in welcome. "The Alyxio League shall be a guild of the most talented, skilled and worthy wolves in all of Torva, and perhaps even the world," he informed, his voice crisp and clear, a tone of fleeting joy in his words. Fanul wished to be proud of something of his own creation. "Here shall gather the masters and champions, artists and prodigies. Where do your skills and passions linger, friend? That is what you shall be asked to do." "Fanul howls."

Table by Yahtzee

As Fanul exchanged words with the long-lost Cicero, his fair lady stepped up to speak with yet another newcomer who had heard his call. As he awaited a response from his former Caelius companion, he turned his attention to the large brute. This wolf was cloaked in garb of snow and silver, lustrous among the mountain chill; he was also mighty in size, standing above Fanul, who was quite average in build and body. This discrepancy in height did not faze the fox, however, who knew that he had claimed this land as his through an honorable fight by blood and sweat. This sort of battle was something that wolves of all walks of life held dear and would not violate its implication. A victory was a victory if fairly won. Fanul looked at the stranger with a prideful, curious gaze, molten orbs focused upon him in interest. He studied the one who introduced himself as Sephiroth, every curve of his body, every line and hair as if testing to see what he could do to be of service to Alyxio. "Hello, Sephiroth," he spoke. "As Antoinette mentioned, we would be glad to have you here in the mountains." The fox dipped his flaming head toward him politely in welcome. "The Alyxio League shall be a guild of the most talented, skilled and worthy wolves in all of Torva, and perhaps even the world," he informed, his voice crisp and clear, a tone of fleeting joy in his words. Fanul wished to be proud of something of his own creation. "Here shall gather the masters and champions, artists and prodigies. Where do your skills and passions linger, friend? That is what you shall be asked to do." "Fanul howls."

Table by Yahtzee

As Fanul exchanged words with the long-lost Cicero, his fair lady stepped up to speak with yet another newcomer who had heard his call. As he awaited a response from his former Caelius companion, he turned his attention to the large brute. This wolf was cloaked in garb of snow and silver, lustrous among the mountain chill; he was also mighty in size, standing above Fanul, who was quite average in build and body. This discrepancy in height did not faze the fox, however, who knew that he had claimed this land as his through an honorable fight by blood and sweat. This sort of battle was something that wolves of all walks of life held dear and would not violate its implication. A victory was a victory if fairly won. Fanul looked at the stranger with a prideful, curious gaze, molten orbs focused upon him in interest. He studied the one who introduced himself as Sephiroth, every curve of his body, every line and hair as if testing to see what he could do to be of service to Alyxio. "Hello, Sephiroth," he spoke. "As Antoinette mentioned, we would be glad to have you here in the mountains." The fox dipped his flaming head toward him politely in welcome. "The Alyxio League shall be a guild of the most talented, skilled and worthy wolves in all of Torva, and perhaps even the world," he informed, his voice crisp and clear, a tone of fleeting joy in his words. Fanul wished to be proud of something of his own creation. "Here shall gather the masters and champions, artists and prodigies. Where do your skills and passions linger, friend? That is what you shall be asked to do." "Fanul howls."

Table by Yahtzee

It was not long before the leading man of this Alyxio League spoke to him and reassured him that he would be allowed to enter the ranks of their pack. At that moment too, he learned what the Alyxio League was all about. He wondered what sort of masters and champions, he doubted he was one. Nor did he think himself an artist, though he liked to bay at the moon every now and then, but who didn't? Nor did he think himself in any way to be a prodigy. Still, it never hurt to find out and soon he would as he answered Fanul, “I don't know if I have any... artistic skills to speak of, perhaps I have overlooked them? I am however what some have called an annoying philosopher. The only other thing of merit, is an odd ability, though not always accurate, is the telling of fortunes. It's as though I can see something that has yet to come, or something which is happening now, but not close enough for me to be of assistance.” He kept himself low, though still he felt so very big.

He knew not what else could assist Alyxio and its Virtuosos', but like any wolf he could hunt and protect, just look at his size! He was no fumbler, though he preferred the peaceful life, instead of fighting he liked friendly debates. Always asking questions and answering them with yet more questions. In times gone by, he'd led family members of his in circles to the point where they'd scoff and tell him he knew nothing, perhaps because they did not have the depth of perception like he had. Now, he could start afresh and hopefully had found a place where his unusual talents, if talents they were, would be appreciated or at least not scorned.

His vibrant ears pinned forward, at the mention of fortune telling. It was an area that Fanul had never explored before, likely because he had not the aptitude to communicate with spirits, phantoms and otherworldly creatures. His eyes glowed, a faint gleam of utter inquiry in his gaze of molten gold. This was interesting indeed, for someone who explored this realm would be quite useful and unique to Alyxio. "Philosopher or fortuneteller, I am intrigued. Please tell me more." Sephiroth might not have considered his talent an art, but Fanul certainly did. It was a skill that not all wolves possessed, something that he could train and work at, bind into a seal of sheer mastery. That alone was enough to pique Fanul's curiosity and nudge him to ask for further clarification; regardless, as long as Sephiroth spoke the truth, he would make a great addition to the league. It was a recent spark in his heart that led him to his decisions -- he wished to make a pack with the most skilled wolves he could find. Alyxio's hierarchy would not be based upon blood or mere strength of arms. Those who wished to reside upon Lemures Mountains needed to be able to prove themselves, to tell Fanul that they had something to share with the world, with their family and allow themselves to be useful. All able wolves would contribute to guarding the borders and hunting for food, but they had to provide something else to the league if they wished to remain. There had to be another talent they could offer, whether it be intelligence, performance, service or something of a more arcane nature. "Fanul howls."

Table by Yahtzee

His vibrant ears pinned forward, at the mention of fortune telling. It was an area that Fanul had never explored before, likely because he had not the aptitude to communicate with spirits, phantoms and otherworldly creatures. His eyes glowed, a faint gleam of utter inquiry in his gaze of molten gold. This was interesting indeed, for someone who explored this realm would be quite useful and unique to Alyxio. "Philosopher or fortuneteller, I am intrigued. Please tell me more." Sephiroth might not have considered his talent an art, but Fanul certainly did. It was a skill that not all wolves possessed, something that he could train and work at, bind into a seal of sheer mastery. That alone was enough to pique Fanul's curiosity and nudge him to ask for further clarification; regardless, as long as Sephiroth spoke the truth, he would make a great addition to the league. It was a recent spark in his heart that led him to his decisions -- he wished to make a pack with the most skilled wolves he could find. Alyxio's hierarchy would not be based upon blood or mere strength of arms. Those who wished to reside upon Lemures Mountains needed to be able to prove themselves, to tell Fanul that they had something to share with the world, with their family and allow themselves to be useful. All able wolves would contribute to guarding the borders and hunting for food, but they had to provide something else to the league if they wished to remain. There had to be another talent they could offer, whether it be intelligence, performance, service or something of a more arcane nature. "Fanul howls."

Table by Yahtzee

His vibrant ears pinned forward, at the mention of fortune telling. It was an area that Fanul had never explored before, likely because he had not the aptitude to communicate with spirits, phantoms and otherworldly creatures. His eyes glowed, a faint gleam of utter inquiry in his gaze of molten gold. This was interesting indeed, for someone who explored this realm would be quite useful and unique to Alyxio. "Philosopher or fortuneteller, I am intrigued. Please tell me more." Sephiroth might not have considered his talent an art, but Fanul certainly did. It was a skill that not all wolves possessed, something that he could train and work at, bind into a seal of sheer mastery. That alone was enough to pique Fanul's curiosity and nudge him to ask for further clarification; regardless, as long as Sephiroth spoke the truth, he would make a great addition to the league. It was a recent spark in his heart that led him to his decisions -- he wished to make a pack with the most skilled wolves he could find. Alyxio's hierarchy would not be based upon blood or mere strength of arms. Those who wished to reside upon Lemures Mountains needed to be able to prove themselves, to tell Fanul that they had something to share with the world, with their family and allow themselves to be useful. All able wolves would contribute to guarding the borders and hunting for food, but they had to provide something else to the league if they wished to remain. There had to be another talent they could offer, whether it be intelligence, performance, service or something of a more arcane nature. "Fanul howls."

Table by Yahtzee

Cicero simply stared with his violet eyes as he watched Fanul come closer, his vibrant form a welcome surprise. His mind was almost disbelieving… was this really happening? Were they actually alive, and together, Fanul and Antoinette? They were safe. His chest heaved from the difficulty of catching his breath from all that running, his face a mark of bewilderment. Fanul spoke then, and seemed to knock some sense back into Cicero’s mind. He blinked a couple times, before his lips tried to twitch into a smile, though he was still immensely confused. ”H-hi! I’m glad to… be back,” he stuttered and stammered and paused, breath heavy between the words, but a more genuine smile seemed to take over his ebon lips as he listened to Fanul as he spoke again. So much was happening at once, and his heart threatened to explode with the mix of anticipation and excitement… but it was for once beating with a happy tone, and that was all he could ask for.

He looked around Fanul over to the snowy white form that was behind him, the familiar face of Antoinette causing his smile to become real now for the first time in a long one. Two faces… two lovely creatures from a former life. ”It is also good to see you, Antoinette. I’m so glad the two of you are alive,” he said, his voice fading into a whisper, almost a sentence to himself, as his tail wagged, once or twice. Another wolf appeared then, before Cicero could manage to get out any words to Fanul’s request, and he watched and listened to the other brute quietly, catching his breath and catching his bearings once again. He had to say he felt somewhat inadequate next to this… Sephiroth, as his skills were nothing to brag about. He paused, glances swinging between the three wolves before he moved forward, around Fanul and closer to Antoinette, where he finally sat upon his bottom, looking over to the new Alyxio alpha, with a small smile. ”I don’t have much to offer, myself. But I would be beyond happy to become a part of Alyxio,” he whispered, not adding on that he needed company, and a home, desperately.

Image by Jolee, table code by Ryne

”The Spirits were angry with the wolves of Torva, of course, so why else would they seek to destroy them? I heard, pray tell, that they were all merciless, power hungry mongrels.” the curious she-wolf looked to her companion with an eagerness of a gossip hound. ”My time in Torva was lovely, Demi, and I have nothing demeaning to say of the wolves to which I had the pleasure to meet.” No matter how neutral her tones, Bilithe turned from the woman and began to trot away, as if dismissing the allegations with her backside. ”But, I heard.. For a wolf said.. They say the wolves of Torva kill their kings, piss on the corpse and sit on the throne, all in the same eve’.” Bilithe scoffed and allowed her anger to surface. ”If you do not believe what I say, then, why not see for yourself?” However, her anger was short lived and a small smile lifted her features as the look of sheer terror struck her companions gaze. ”Pray to the heavens that neither of us must go to that forsaken he--,” her statement was cut short, the plump wolf’s response overpowering. ”I am going home, Demi. Should I see you again, it will be in the realm of Torva.” and without a glance at the surprise on her friend’s face, Bilithe was gone. ------- Perched upon a suitable resting place, at the base of the Eastern Mountain range, the bulky wolf woman sat in confusion. Many days passed before she had reached Torva, and still she wandered with the look of a worried mother. It appeared true, the cries she thought treasonous, but it did not seem as bad as had been explained. The lack of flames and rancid stink told her that perhaps the folly of exaggeration had been present, but to an extent. The scent of Avani seemed forever lost; or so it appeared, along with the smell of Orion. A pang of guilt filled the woman as she stood, shaking out her pelt and continuing to traverse the changing terrain. Perhaps destruction befell the mysterious man, while the Gods were angry with Torva.. The Tundra beast did not feel it proper to regret the decisions in her life, and so she allowed the memory to die along with the scent. There were, of course, other signs of life and it reassured her that all hope was anything but lost. In a matter of hours she found herself confronted by many fresh scents, some particularly dominantly put. It was in a mere instant that she realized these lands were claimed. Alarm signals flew off in her head and she felt a slight roll of agitation make its way through her gut and up her throat, exiting in a soft whine. Demi had been the only wolf that she had been with, and seen, in the past three seasons of her life and doubt began to filter all thoughts of a fresh start. Perhaps it was the eager instinct of finding a home before the winter season struck that pushed her to raise her maw and sing. Whatever it was, her melodic howl filled the Mountain range, climbing higher and higher, and echoing hauntingly amongst the silence. Hear my call.. I seek refuge.. I seek a-- It was a call that cut her song short, and she choked back the desire to finish her own call. ”Come!” "Come and share with me your talents and skills. Magicians and artists, champions and prodigies, philosophers and musicians! We will be the Alyxio League! And together, we shall be great." And just like that, with the eagerness of a beggar, the thick beast ran towards the call. The amber gaze of the woman sparkled with happiness, while her anxiety was appeased by the caller. She was anything but a performer, and hoped dearly that her skills of herbs and child sitting would suffice, especially to a new King. He would be in his right mind to bring puppies into the world, with his Queen, to secure his claim on the land. And she would offer her services right up. Her lumbering form slowed as her gaze was met with the forms of four other wolves. A soft bark left her lips and she was cautious as she closed the space between herself and the gathered wolves. With her tail tucked submissively, and her already small frame low, she stopped ten feet from the gathering.

Fanul sat down with Cicero as well, allowing his rump to touch the ground. His wounds from the battle hurt and stung, but they were not unlike his other battle scars and so he ignored them. Later when they were together in private, he knew that Antoinette would likely wish to treat them with what knowledge she had in herbs and medicines, which was fine by him. There was no reason in allowing his open wounds to fester and become infected with disease. The fox glanced at Cicero with an eye that regarded them as equals still, comrades from the days of Caelius. "I am sure your skills will be useful. Tell me, what is it that you do?" He thought back to how things were in Caelius. "You studied under the Doyen Bohemian as a tracker. Is that still something you wish to pursue?" This turnout was already quite good -- better than what Fanul had expected, for he was not even sure if anyone would answer his call. Finding Antoinette was enough for him, but having Sephiroth and then Cicero appear was even better. Lady Luck seemed to be favoring the fox today, for it did not take long before yet another wolf wandered onto the mountains. She came small and thick, and something about her caused Fanul's mind to churn, cogs turning round and round as if summoning information that was long lost. At last he remembered. And still she came closer, submission obvious in her step and her form, and a coy smile tugged at his lips because he remembered her from a river long ago. He wondered if she recalled him as well, but it their meeting was brief and no names were exchanged. Fanul began with his whimsical voice, a deep and rich song that came forth from his throat. "You again." He said this, not in an aggressive or unwelcoming way, but it a tone of mere curiosity and surprise. "We meet on different terms this time, I see. No need to be shy. Hello and welcome to Alyxio." "Fanul howls."

Table by Yahtzee

Fanul sat down with Cicero as well, allowing his rump to touch the ground. His wounds from the battle hurt and stung, but they were not unlike his other battle scars and so he ignored them. Later when they were together in private, he knew that Antoinette would likely wish to treat them with what knowledge she had in herbs and medicines, which was fine by him. There was no reason in allowing his open wounds to fester and become infected with disease. The fox glanced at Cicero with an eye that regarded them as equals still, comrades from the days of Caelius. "I am sure your skills will be useful. Tell me, what is it that you do?" He thought back to how things were in Caelius. "You studied under the Doyen Bohemian as a tracker. Is that still something you wish to pursue?" This turnout was already quite good -- better than what Fanul had expected, for he was not even sure if anyone would answer his call. Finding Antoinette was enough for him, but having Sephiroth and then Cicero appear was even better. Lady Luck seemed to be favoring the fox today, for it did not take long before yet another wolf wandered onto the mountains. She came small and thick, and something about her caused Fanul's mind to churn, cogs turning round and round as if summoning information that was long lost. At last he remembered. And still she came closer, submission obvious in her step and her form, and a coy smile tugged at his lips because he remembered her from a river long ago. He wondered if she recalled him as well, but it their meeting was brief and no names were exchanged. Fanul began with his whimsical voice, a deep and rich song that came forth from his throat. "You again." He said this, not in an aggressive or unwelcoming way, but it a tone of mere curiosity and surprise. "We meet on different terms this time, I see. No need to be shy. Hello and welcome to Alyxio." "Fanul howls."

Table by Yahtzee

Fanul sat down with Cicero as well, allowing his rump to touch the ground. His wounds from the battle hurt and stung, but they were not unlike his other battle scars and so he ignored them. Later when they were together in private, he knew that Antoinette would likely wish to treat them with what knowledge she had in herbs and medicines, which was fine by him. There was no reason in allowing his open wounds to fester and become infected with disease. The fox glanced at Cicero with an eye that regarded them as equals still, comrades from the days of Caelius. "I am sure your skills will be useful. Tell me, what is it that you do?" He thought back to how things were in Caelius. "You studied under the Doyen Bohemian as a tracker. Is that still something you wish to pursue?" This turnout was already quite good -- better than what Fanul had expected, for he was not even sure if anyone would answer his call. Finding Antoinette was enough for him, but having Sephiroth and then Cicero appear was even better. Lady Luck seemed to be favoring the fox today, for it did not take long before yet another wolf wandered onto the mountains. She came small and thick, and something about her caused Fanul's mind to churn, cogs turning round and round as if summoning information that was long lost. At last he remembered. And still she came closer, submission obvious in her step and her form, and a coy smile tugged at his lips because he remembered her from a river long ago. He wondered if she recalled him as well, but it their meeting was brief and no names were exchanged. Fanul began with his whimsical voice, a deep and rich song that came forth from his throat. "You again." He said this, not in an aggressive or unwelcoming way, but it a tone of mere curiosity and surprise. "We meet on different terms this time, I see. No need to be shy. Hello and welcome to Alyxio." "Fanul howls."

Table by Yahtzee