Where the Wind Blows

Cerberus Antum · 02-15-2012, 01:25 PM

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Word Count → 604 :: OOC

Cerberus thought long and hard about this decision as he stumbled over the rocky terrain of the mountains, his snout pointed toward New Dawn. It had been a rough couple of nights without Ciara, and that was enough to nudge him right on over to the borders of the packlands without question. But he did have a question racing around in his mind, and it was that of whether or not they’d accept someone who was part coyote. It was a very small part indeed, but the coloring of his mother and the scruffiness of his grandmother seasoned his appearance enough to hint at his heritage, even though the majority of his blood belonged to Arctic and Timber wolf genes. Suddenly, however, it occurred to Cerberus that he’d never really tried to maintain his appearance, not counting the several times a day he ran his fingers through his optime hair. Perhaps it would benefit him to take pause in his journey long enough to actually comb out his unkempt fur?

And so he did. Every misplaced hair and tousled patch of fur was soon disciplined by his combing fingers, until eventually the wolfish side of him prevailed in his appearance. Bathing in the river before his departure had helped, and suddenly he was grateful for the inkling to do so. The mere fluff of his white and tan fur made him look bigger, stronger, and more wolf-like. His voice sounded wolfish enough, and he was thankful for that. He just hoped the leaders of New Dawn wouldn’t look past his efforts and draw attention to the small bit of coyote that flavored his blood.

Taking a moment to shift into his lupus form, Cerberus concentrated on shortening his limbs and contorting his body until he eventually stood on four paws, his bushy tail swaying behind him and a sharp-toothed grin tugged across his handsome face. He didn’t need to see his reflection to know he looked nice, because he could just feel it. The machismo simply oozed from the man; however he did try and tone it down this once to avoid appearing big-headed. Pushing forward, Cerberus soon found himself at a scent marker labeled by New Dawn wolves, and he stood still in order to collect his thoughts. Luckily this wasn’t as hefty of a decision as choosing a mate, as he still had the freedom to roam, even if it wasn’t as far as he’d been before. And he loved this area; the bay was not far from where he stood now. But the nagging doubt of whether or not he’d be accepted formed a lump in his throat, and he couldn’t seem to bring himself to howl. The coyote he’d met not long ago had belonged to Inferni, a pack whose stipulations were almost opposite of New Dawn’s. He’d have a better chance there to be sure, simply because his genes were flecked with coyote blood. But the wolfish side of him, the side that belonged to his father, grandfather, and other ancestors, founded the strength within him to puff out his chest and finally lift his head. From the very depths of his soul, from the very fibers of his being, Cerberus let free the thickest and most far-reaching howl he could muster. It vibrated throughout the hills, calling attention to those close enough to hear and even seeking out Ciara’s ears if she was near. And then he closed his jaws, tasting the remains of the call on his tongue as he lowered his head once again. He was a wolf; the coyote had little influence on this creature.

Shandom Qi'Vaex · 02-15-2012, 10:18 PM

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I'm assuming that Cerberus is 25% coyote, as his mother was a hybrid and his father a wolf. If that's wrong, let me know! (:

Word Count: 376+

Finally.

Shandom, in the privacy of his own wanderings, had a huge, giddy, and slightly ridiculous grin on his scarred face. He'd recently been promoted to the rank of Gamma, out of the uncomfortable subordinate position he'd been desperate to escape. The alabaster male was absurdly proud of himself, feeling validated after so many years of wandering and feeling generally useless. Here, he now had a rank and duties to go along with it, as well as a modicum of respect in the ranks. Gamma here in New Dawn was slightly different from that of the Etient ranks, but Shandom thought this might be better suited for him. It was a sort of consulate position, one where he might be sought out for advice by the Alphas; Shandom liked that.

The male sauntered near the borders, his stance more dominant than he'd allowed it to get in moons. It was not overt, nor particularly offensive, but it made the white man feel much better about himself. He would obviously be showing the proper respect to the other ranks, but in his own mind Shandom was more excited about this change in status than he had been about assuming the Alpha position all those years ago. Unlike before, he'd actually earned this rank, instead of merely being born into it. The new Gamma hadn't felt this happy in god knows how long, and he would certainly be in a more genial mood because of it.

A loner's howl caught his attention, and the male trotted off; it did not seem too far away, and Shandom quickly spotted the newcomer. Chocolate eyes narrowed for a moment - this new male looked a bit like a coyote, though he did not sound like one - before his face broke into a friendly smile. His stance was more dominant than it might have been in a normal situation; when dealing with Loners, Shandom had always found it best to portray as much confidence as possible, as well as congeniality. You stand at the borders of New Dawn, stranger, the Gamma called, still several yards away, though he quickly stood in front of the man. I am Shandom Qi'Vaex-Nightslayer, Gamma of these lands. May I ask your business, and your name?

Table by Aly, code by the Mentors!

Cerberus Antum · 02-15-2012, 11:50 PM

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Word Count → 401 :: Yup that’s right! :]

Cerberus was surprised at the short amount of time that passed before a figure with a pelt much like his own sauntered over the hills. The coywolf’s heart caught in his throat, and for a moment he thought he was going to pass out. As the canine neared him, Ceri noticed a long scar stretching across the face of the other – a creature he could now tell was male – and this increased the intimidation factor. Instinct didn’t even have time to kick in, as mere cowardice forced Cerberus into a crouching position, with his tail tucked between his thighs and his ears paper-flat against his skull. The wolf stopped just before him, tall and proud, and Cerberus quickly averted his gaze as the stranger spoke. For a moment, Ceri wondered if this canine could hear the rampant beating of his heart.

Nerves alone made Cerberus nearly forget his name, and self-doubt clouded his thoughts, preventing him from quickly coming up with a reason for his appearance. But a familiar smell suddenly drifted his way, clearing his mind and easing his nerves; Ciara’s scent mingled with others on this wolf’s pelt. It was then that Cerberus realized he didn’t seem hostile, nor did he seem stern. The scarred creature had actually smiled at him before approaching, a gesture that he’d nearly overlooked due to his anticipation. A tiny smile of his own touched Ceri’s eyes, but hesitated to reach his lips as his thoughts finally formed around an appropriate answer: ”Sir, my name is Cerberus Antum. At the suggestion of one of your own confidantes, I’ve come in hopes of joining your pack.”

Cerberus hadn’t realized he was shaking until his body suddenly relaxed into a stand-still. While hoping the one known as Shandom hadn’t noticed, he could feel relieved at the fact that he thought he presented himself decently enough. Recalling the stories his father had told him of pack wolves and their conduct, Cerberus began to skim over the qualities he possessed, as he knew this wolf might ask how he could serve their pack. By thinking about it now, Ceri could answer more quickly than he had Shandom’s first set of questions. He didn’t think too hard on it, however, for he also didn’t want to seem spacey; this male commanded respect and attention with his very demeanor, and Cerberus was more than willing to give it to him.

Shandom Qi'Vaex · 02-16-2012, 12:02 AM

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Trying to be nice and quick for ya!

Word Count: 389+

Shandom couldn't fault the younger man for being nervous, for the air emanated from him in waves in the first several moments of their interaction. The man had folded into himself, demonstrating adequate knowledge of submission, though the Gamma doubted he actually deserved such an extensive show. Regardless, he would not condemn the man for such behavior: it was what New Dawn sought, after all, and he lavished privately in the respect shown to him. At that moment, the Qi'Vaex man was reminded of why he'd enjoyed being of a higher rank, and was doubly glad he'd finally proven himself to Zalen and Titania. Truly, he was honored they thought him a good source of advice, should they need it. It was an honor to serve New Dawn as its Gamma.

Shandom was happy to see the small shadows of a smile curve across the younger man's lips. The newcomer was handsome, the Gamma thought in the most heterosexual way possible, and he could imagine there would be several eager young ladies flouncing around him in the near future, should he prove himself an acceptable member of New Dawn. Shandom would not deny he was cynical of most, but this loner had warmed his heart with his show of respect; plus, he was in a fantastic mood as it was. Though there might have been a different perception among some of the wolves of New Dawn - Soran and Noah among them - the Gamma was not a cruel or rigid wolf. No, he was merely set in his traditional ways, and took hierarchy extremely seriously. Anyway. The young one spoke, introducing himself as Cerberus Antum. It was a good, strong name, and Shandom nodded in acknowledgement. A pleasure, then, Cerberus. Who suggested you come here? And, if you would please, could you tell me what assets you might bring New Dawn?

If Cerberus answered in a fashion he thought adequate, Shandom would ask one more question before calling a leader. It was, perhaps, something that was born of his own experiences, but the Gamma was curious to know why wolves were loners. He did not expect any long or particularly detailed stories, but if they were revolutionaries bent on destruction, he would not allow them to pass the borders of his home and bring harm to his family.

Table by Aly, code by the Mentors!

Cerberus Antum · 02-16-2012, 12:59 AM

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Word Count → 340 :: Oh no worries! I appreciate it though, thank you!

Everything seemed to be going well so far, and Cerberus was glad for that. He was also glad that he was so lucky to have called someone so calm, someone who hadn’t even drawn attention to his coyote heritage yet. But perhaps it wasn’t as noticeable as Ceri feared; he was on edge, after all, and every insecurity seemed as a blazing flaw in the boycoy’s eyes. Either way, he would maintain his cool and prove an asset for this wolf and his pack, for he shared the same traits with this creature despite him not being related by blood.

The smile hiding behind the confines of Ceri’s lips finally broke through as the moment the young wolfess had asked him to join her pack replayed in his mind, spurred by Shandom’s questions. ”It was Ciara, sir,” he answered promptly, forcing himself not to dwell on the memory too much; he’d have time to think about her later. The second part of his answer came just as quickly, as the afternoon with the yearling had reminded him of this as well: ”And though I’m sure you may hear this from every male who comes calling at your borders, I have been well-trained in hunting and fighting. I’m also loyal and social, and one day I hope to climb the ranks to a meaningful position and aid this family to my utmost ability.”

Though the last part of his answer surprised even him, Cerberus realized that it was still entirely true; he had often dreamed of being a leader, but he’d never had the opportunity to seek out this desire, save for the times he’d taught his brother how to do the things he already knew so well. Oh, how Cerberus missed dear Geoff. But he hoped that, now more than ever, his brother was smiling down on him and nodding in approval at his every word. Above all else, he wanted nothing more than to make him proud, whether that meant traversing the tundra alone or running alongside a pack.

Shandom Qi'Vaex · 02-16-2012, 02:31 PM

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Just throw up a "Leader needed!" on the title, and someone will get this soon! :3

Word Count: 440+

It was interesting, seeing the expression of happiness break across this new wolf's face when he mentioned the girl who referred him here. Ciara. Shandom had only interacted with her a few times, and while she seemed like a good girl, she had momentarily rubbed the white man the wrong way with her defiant nature. He did not think it was so difficult to treat an Omega as it ought to be treated, and yet he'd found her acting as a sweet ally to Noah as if he'd done nothing wrong! The Gamma regretted his reaction, as it had been unduly harsh and abrasive, but the white man knew he'd been essentially correct. Regardless, what was done was done, and he did not, of course, begrudge Cerberus for his connection to the young girl. Rather, he thought highly of the hybrid, and bestowed upon him a kind and benevolent smile. Ciara is a good girl, and a dear sister. You met a wonderful representative of New Dawn.

Cerberus rattled off his talents, and Shandom nodded. It was quite typical for males to be hunters and warriors; he himself was one, though he was perhaps a better teacher than actual body than he once was. Partial blindness gave him slightly heightened alternatives, but not having stellar vision would always be a detriment. New Dawn was small, and while the females were, of course, adept hunters, it could use the large male bodies to fulfill traditional roles. As Shandom recalled, only Augustus held the Epsilon rank, and perhaps Cerberus would be a good ranking member. But this was not for the Gamma to decide - Zalen and Titania would certainly oversee his behavior and promote him if they saw him to be a fit member of New Dawn. We could use someone with your skills, Cerberus. Hunters and warriors make a pack stronger, and I am sure, should my Alphas deem you a fit member of New Dawn, you will fit in to our family. I will call them now; however, I will ask you one more question after.

The light male then thrust his head into the air and released a deep, requesting howl, alerting the leadership of his location and the reasoning behind his request. There is a loner here, he would like to join us, his song rang, echoing off the mountains before hopefully reaching the ears it needed to. He ended it after several moments before turning his gaze back to Cerberus. Now, if you do not mind me asking, how did you come to be a loner? It is a hard life, and not one many prefer.

Table by Aly, code by the Mentors!

Zalen Damaichu · 02-16-2012, 02:46 PM

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Late Alpha is late... +353

Zalen heard Shandom’s howl, but he had already been on his way for quite some time. He had heard the first call, the unknown call, and had gone to investigate but he had not been nearby. Still, he trotted along the cold ground at a leisurely pace. The sun had managed to escape the clouds for the moment, and though the air was cold the sun warmed his black pelt in such a wonderful way. He huffed out as he walked, his breath billowing about him like that of a puffing dragon; when would spring get here?

Both calls had been summoning calls but there was no tension in the lilt of them. So Zalen assumed it must be a loner, they had been coming more and more. Ciara and Blind had been their newest additions, Zalen only having learned of Blind’s arrival after she had been accepted. It was interesting that she had decided to join New Dawn and he was glad of it. Ciara, though young, was also a good thing for the pack; they had needed females so desperately, and now with Mordecai having left to find his family, their numbers had evened out more. Who knew? Perhaps there would be many pups for them in the spring and summer.

Zalen finally arrived to see his newly appointed Gamma speaking with an unknown male. Though he continued his loping strides towards the pair, mentally Zalen took pause; the stranger was not what he had been expecting. The first howl had been the beautiful call of a wolf, but this male was obviously touched by coyote blood. No matter, in the past few weeks Zalen had become more and more comfortable with the despised breed, and this male was obviously more wolf than anything else. He neared them, head and tail erect and his mane puffed out. He bumped sides affectionately with Shandom in greeting before sniffing at the male; he was a loner, Greetings, I am Zalen Damaichu, Alpha of this pack. I assume you are wishing to join us? He asked this calmly, his tenor voice like sweet nectar.

Cerberus Antum · 02-17-2012, 10:42 AM

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Word Count → 503 :: Wow, sorry this was so long. That’s what I get for watching a TV show about broadway while writing; apparently it sparks my muse O.o

Ceri’s eyes lifted for only a moment as the white wolf threw back his head to call for his alphas… Alphas? As in more than one? The pace of the hybrid’s heart lurched into full swing again as his imagination painted the picture of two huge, god-like wolves prancing over the hills, the very appearance of them grand enough to scald one’s retinas. Ceri’s mismatched orbs then lowered again, and any bit of his posture that might have hinted at forcing himself into it was now remedied to appear completely genuine. He had to be on top of his game now, if he hadn’t been already. Had he been? He wasn’t sure… he’d been so nervous that all he’d really paid attention to were Shandom’s questions.

But the question asked when that mighty white head finally fell again caught Cerberus off guard - his ‘life’ wasn’t something he cared much to think about, let alone indulged enough to come up with a decent anecdote. But he supposed, for the sake of this pack and his standing within it, he could give it a try. Running his pink tongue over his sparkling teeth, Cerberus began in a gentle tone, one that suggested pain as well as humility: ”My brother passed away at an age far too young, and the way in which my parents handled it was such that the event could have been avoided altogether… if they’d opened their eyes. So I left, seeking out a family that cared more for its members than the one I had grown up with, a family that didn’t play favorites. Ironically, it’s a lonely venture.”

Cerberus remained the picture of submission throughout his story, his crouch deepened by the very will to keep from crumbling into a mess of tears and whining. His attention redirected, however, once a dark figure crept into view behind Shandom and leisurely approached the pair, dignity in his eyes and a pair of feathers in his mane. In a snap-judgment made during this single stolen glance, Cerberus assumed this male to be strict but level-headed, with a wild side that emerged only when provoked by his most trusted companions. He could, perhaps, find a place in the dark alpha’s heart beside the rest of his pack-mates, but it would take time. The mere sound of his voice – Zalen, he announced his name was – suggested experience and a past not unlike his own. There was loss in those apple-green eyes, but there was also dignity and love. This was a strong wolf, fit to be an alpha. Cerberus could easily follow under the command of someone who proved worthy of such a responsibility.

A brief moment of silence hung in the air before he answered, but it was just that: brief. ”That is correct sir,” Cerberus replied at the request of clarification. ”One of your own, Ciara, spoke very highly of your family and has requested I attempt to join. Shandom has been so kind as to already make me feel welcome.”

Shandom Qi'Vaex · 02-17-2012, 09:01 PM

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very short, i sorry.

Word Count: 200+

Shandom listened attentively to Cerberus' explanation behind his current state of lonerdom. It was a legitimate answer. Not all creatures could stay eternally with the family they were born into, for whatever circumstance surrounded it. Shandom nodded his large head, and a small, sad smile curved across his lips. I am sorry to hear that. Let me express that I hope you will find a home, and a family, here in New Dawn. But that was not his decision to make - when Zalen arrived, Shandom would find out Cerberus' fate.

Zalen arrived quickly, and Shandom's stance became noticeably more subordinate. Ears flicked back against his skull and tail lowered perceptibly. Zalen, the Gamma acknowledged, nodding his head. I posed Cerberus several questions, and he has answered them. He says he is trained well in hunting and fighting, and he has been honest. He would like to join our family, and I believe he could be an asset The male was uncomfortable with vocalizing how he felt about admitting Cerberus - Shandom thought it was a good idea, and that the younger male would be adequate for their ranks, but he hoped Zalen would not be offended by his suggestion.

Table by Aly, code by the Mentors!

Zalen Damaichu · 02-18-2012, 09:09 PM

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OOC

Zalen listened as the male spoke, watching him closely and taking in all that was to know about him that was unspoken; his posture, his smell; all seemed well. When Cerberus spoke about Shandom, Zalen turned to look at his Gamma just as the white, scarred male spoke, saying that the male would be a good asset to New Dawn. Zalen paused and then nodded, Yes, you are wise in your assumption Shandom, he would make a strong addition. Then, his tail wagging, Zalen nudged Cerberus gently just as he had done to Shandom a moment ago, Welcome to New Dawn brother, please, come to the den and meet your new family. And then, giving Shandom one more approving glance, the dark Alpha turned to move back towards the center of the territory.

New Dawn · 02-18-2012, 09:10 PM

Just posting this up now Smile

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Congratulations! You no longer stray from the path and have returned to life as a true wolf. You do not have to face this world alone, and now may rely on the wisdom of your pack to guide you.

Take a moment to check out our Game and the Moons to see how you can start collecting rewards.
Remember to study your new realm by reviewing the Map and Territory Guide so you may know the land in which your family thrives. Do not be afraid to travel anywhere within the borders of New Dawn.
Please read about our Culture and take a moment to review our Policies so you are best equipped to live as a true wolf.

If you have any questions or concerns you may always seek your alphas' guidance by contacting Nat (Zalen Damaichu) or Nuki (Titania Moonsong). Feel free to start posting in your new home immediately, or if you would like to plan a thread you may poke your muzzle around in Thread Requests or Open Threads!

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Cerberus Antum · 02-18-2012, 09:41 PM

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Cerberus

Love me always

Cerberus nodded at Shandom’s sympathetic words, and then listened intently as the two conversed, his head bowed all the while. He was elated to find that they approved of him, that they believed him to be a strong asset to their family. He hadn’t been viewed in such away since he’d lived with his parents, and in a way it provided a sense of bitter-sweet nostalgia for the young hybrid. At the final decision and solidifying nudge from the alpha, Cerberus finally allowed his gaze to lift and his body to relax into a standing position, however keeping his tail tucked and his ears semi-flat even still. Zalen had called him brother; he had a family now. He was no longer some useless loner forced to battle with Mother Nature for a place to sleep and food to eat. It felt…good.

Excitement coursed through the coywolf as he tossed an exuberant smile at Shandom, and then finally turned to follow Zalen. His steps were careful still, as if in disbelief that he was actually crossing over onto their territory to meet those he’d call his brothers and sisters. He hoped, however, that addressing the others by such titles wasn’t mandatory, for that’d make things awfully awkward with Ciara. But he didn’t dwell on the thought, as his enthusiasm wouldn’t permit him to. A new sense of duty welled up inside Cerberus - he would prove himself worthy in this alpha’s eyes, and Shandom’s even. He would have to learn how to suppress his foolish ways when they weren’t appropriate, but he could handle that if it meant progressing to a rank of power and nobility. Already he could tell that this family would be different than the one he was born into, particularly because he had responsibilities now beyond fetching dinner for his father. It was time to make dear Geoff proud.

.

Woo! Happy wolf.

template by revo. <3

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Ciara O'Callahan · 02-18-2012, 10:37 PM

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OOC:: Crazed, happy Ciara. xD Sorry Zalen! Big Grin WC: 466

In Character

She couldn't help it anymore. The mottled yearling had waited patiently for the past few hours while Ceri talked first with Shandom, and then with their Alpha, Zalen. She'd been a good girl, holding back and watching silently from the crest of a hill where she had a decent view. Part of her had wanted to go down there and vouch for Ceri, but something stopped Ciara. If she went down there, would it look like he was joining for her alone and not because he wanted to? The girl didn't want to risk it.

Her tail had wagged slowly to show her excitement, ears pricked so she could hear the voices of the three males on the wind. It all seemed to be going well, Shandom looked happy enough with Ceri's introduction, and had even said good things about him to Zalen upon the Alpha's arrival. Her slender body wiggled happily, tail lashing behind her with a little more velocity. Then, Zalen gave Ceri a head bump and turned towards the den.

That was it! He was accepted! Unable to contain her excitement, Ciara threw her head back and let a short song break forth from her muzzle. The boycoy was in New Dawn, she'd get to see him whenever she wanted and participate in all the joys of a pack with him. Quickly, the calico subordinate jumped up and shook her fur out, before setting excited eyes on the wolves below. As soon as Ceri stood up and began to follow Zalen that was the end of her patience.

With a yip of excitement, Ciara came careening down the snow-covered hill towards her friend. She was like a mottled bullet soaring down the crest, and showed no signs of slowing down. Normally, if she had been able to calm herself, the girl would have showed her respect to Zalen and even gave him a few thankful licks for letting Cerberus join them. She also would have shown respect to Shandom, who was now her superior.

But, unfortunately for the elder wolves, Ciara was not thinking of dominance and submission. All she could think about was the fact that Ceri was now a pack member. Therefore, as she whipped down the hill she blew right past her Alpha and Gamma, and plowed directly into Ceri with the intent to knock him over. Her tongue lashed out to lick his face repeatedly and her tail whipped behind her. As her muzzle broke into a smile, a series of happy whines and yips left her, and she found herself crouching on the floor making a play bow. She was so excited, she even playfully jabbed a paw at Zalen before darting away again, initiating chase.

Happy Ciara looked remarkably like a crazed puppy with too much sugar.

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