A Quiet Stroll (CLOSED)

[Takhi]

The chilly winds of fall hit the lowlands like a puff of the icy breath from Tor. The trees responded with the change of hue and release of their magnificent foliage. Some still had not shed fully. It would be only a few more months before they did. What were left sitting on their branches were golden brown leaves, slowly drying up as they swayed back and forth in the breeze. The base of the woods was now littered with the death of spring, making any animal vulnerable as the slightest touch would cause the ground to crackle and crunch. This was no place for prey or predator. The rodents could not even gather their winter storage of food without making it known to the world that they were there. The wolves could not hunt without making their presence obvious. Still, life went on and mice and squirrels continued to scamper back and forth, but remaining alert to their surroundings.

It was dawn, the sun slowly rising into the skies, the light gleaming over the peaks of the mountains. This was the perfect time for the small animals to forage only because the deer were on their way to the meadow to feed on the last of the dying grass. The constant noise they created with their hooves and their bellows distracted the wondering predators and attract them to much larger game. Compare a rat to a deer. A hungry Varg would much rather chow down on a feast that could keep it full for days unlike what would be a mouthful that would last them only a couple of hours. Though, this was the season where the Herla would be dangerous, especially to the loners, the pups, the sick, and the elderly.

Autumn sparked a hidden fury within the stags of the herds. Their necks would plump, making it strong for combat. Their aggression fueled by raging testosterone topped off with perfectly pointed antlers. The soft velvet that protected the growing tissue was shedding to reveal frightening and deadly weapons. Each year this would happen and each year it poses a great threat to the wolves. But, some good comes out of it. When the bucks do nothing but fight, they get tired and weak. Ones who could not regain their strength die in the cold, winter storms and give the wolves the upper paw. Vargs with experience in battling these enraged deer, often bear wounds to remind them. To teach this to the young, adults sometimes will pick up a discarded set of antlers and prod the pups, teaching them that they must attack the sides rather than head on. This shows the future hunters what can happen when you are careless.

For now, the bucks were only in preparation for the rut. Young males would spar to test their strength to see what they can improve on when it is their time. Their mission is simple; gather as many hinds as possible and pass on your genes to the next generation. To win the love of the ladies you must fight to prove yourself worthy. That is the way it has been for every creature on earth. Until the rut begins, it was safe for a wolf to approach. Padding parallel to the herd was a black Varg. The fae was not on the hunt at all. She was not doing anything but moving through the trees. Her name was Takhi. This was a member of the terrible pack called, Sarnes. She was not with them because she had not been completely accepted and was not permitted to walk in their lands until Shunke’ said she could. Up until the pack greeted her with open paws, she remained a wonderer.

[Krystal Zanguzen]

The time of autumn was upon the land, a time where the colors of the rising and setting skies shared their flavors with the trees of the terra. Together the oaks wore their colored leaves like badges of honor, a testament to another full year of life and prosperity. They provided shade and comfort for the Lera of the land whom seek shelter and sanctuary from the ever vigilant Putnar. The change in leaves was also a reminder however, of the time that was just to come. The era of Wolfbane was just around the corner, and this was the time to prepare for the icy season that lay in wait just ahead. Winter would always be the most difficult time for Lera and Varg alike, for it disrupted the natural order of things. Herds would migrate to warmer weather, leaving food scarce for the Putnar of the region. One wolf pack that was particularly concerned this season was that of Ge-Rad. For within their borders, the gift of life had just been given. The yips and yaps of cubs could be heard from within the borders, a fresh litter had just been born. Though it was a time of great joy, it was also a time of great concern. The litter was born close to the coming of winter, and they would need plenty of food in order to survive the ultimate test.

Enter an ebony and ivory Ge-Radian, as she pads along one of the many trails within the forest. Her coat held a healthy sheen given off from the light of Fenris’ dawn. Bi-hued eyes of sapphire and emerald constantly scanned the terra, and the crescent symbol of the Zanguzen was always ever present on her right shoulder and left hind leg. On this morning she was sent on a mission, given by the Dragga of Ge-Rad himself. Krystal was to find any trace of food from just outside Ge-Radian borders. Perhaps the herds had moved on from the plains of Ge-Rad, and so it was her job to find the herd, and report their location back to the pack. Being the lead scout of Ge-Rad, Krystal was the perfect choice for this mission. She can move quickly and silently throughout the land, and is an excellent tracker. On this day the wind was the Ge-Radian’s companion, bringing the scent of Herla too her nares. With precision and stealth the former Zanguzen followed the scent, keen on finding the wayward herd that had vacated Ge-Rad boundaries. Beneath the paws of the lead scout, lay thousands of autumn flavored leaves that spread about the surface like a carpet over a floor.

It would be difficult, and time consuming for Krystal to avoid stepping on the leaves, which would no doubt give away her presence to any potential pray. “Finding the herd isn’t the problem, it’s these leaves.” Krystal thought as she glanced at them with her bi-hued optics. “They might hear me coming or going, that would be troublesome.” In the end the lead scout decided to just simply ignore them for now. She would start moving more quietly once the scent of Herla became stronger. As before stated, today the wind was Krystal’s ally, for she was downwind of the herd that much she knew, and could use this advantage to gain some ground on the otherwise unsuspecting herd. But as Krystal was beginning to take her next few paw steps up the path, a fresh scent had suddenly bombarded her senses, causing the Ge-Radian to snort a bit and shake her head. The scent was that of the marsh and swamplands, and of the putrid waters of a dreaded place that lay far beyond the great river towards the north. The last time Krystal had felt this scent, was when Shunke of Sarnes had snaked her way into Ge-Rad’s precinct. With a low growl, she muttered quietly one word to herself. “Sarnes…”

[Takhi]

Takhi had no idea that she was close to the pack of Ge-Rad’s border. Their territory lied against the woods and the meadow on the other side. If the fae was only a Kerl this wandering would not be a problem. When Takhi was a loner, it was easy to make friends because she posed no threat to any pack. Now that she was on her way to be fully accepted into Sarnes, the only things she would make were enemies. She had no idea that nearing Ge-Rad was severely dangerous. Because she was not a full fledged member of Sarnes, she was not aware of who was an ally or a rival, unless you count the Balkar, another group of misfits, but dominated by males. If she were not a fae, the Balkar would have been her other option of joining. So, for rendering the savage pack as her new family she would be nothing but crucified. Another aspect she wasn’t aware of was that a Ge-Radian wolf was on the prowl, searching for a kill and patrolling the borders. Even if the stranger was kind, their choice in packs would force them to be rivals.

The other wolf was a fae named Krystal. She didn’t take too kindly to anyone from Sarnes whether they are nice or not. Takhi was heading into a real dilemma. Her lack of awareness posed as a weakness. This was not good. Deep down, she knew this would one day happen. Members of two different enemy packs could never be friends. To do so would be false loyalty. It was interesting; Ge-Rad was an unknown group to Takhi. Through her wanderings she had met members of Koran, List, and of course, Sarnes. The rest like the Balkar, Deor, and Ge-Rad, the members were all too mysterious and never seemed to stray into her direction. If this was to be a showdown, Takhi would be able to pull it off, no problem. Well, maybe not her, more like the other side of her.

When Takhi was a pup, she had been unknowingly born with an evil entity. Not making its presence known until she was seven moons old, it was just called The White Wolf. It spoke of no name. This being would corrupt Takhi and force her to murder ruthlessly. At two moons old, she killed her sister, Baeleh. There was a fire and the family fled. The rain had filled up the rivers to be transformed into a raging torrent. The pack was running atop a rocky platform parallel to the river, its slope leading straight down into the waters. Takhi pushed her sister and watched her fall to her doom. Their mother, Madge, leaped in after her pup, but was killed when she was thrusted up against a stone jutting out of the canal’s base. Her corpse floated downstream. Takhi’s brother, Jolahn, died moments before that event when a tree toppled down in front of her and her brother. The impact of the lumber sent him down the rocky slope, this one not leading down to the river, but a bed of jagged boulders. His claws kept him secure, leaving enough time for his sister to help him, but she wouldn’t and let him fall to his fate.

For the rest of her life, misfortune followed, and it seemed it would come once again as she obliviously padded right into Krystal’s path.

[Krystal Zanguzen]

The stench of marsh and bog grew more perfuse as the moments passed, indicating to the lead scout of Ge-Rad that this stranger of Sarnes scent was on the move. It was unlikely that the wolf in question could scent Krystal’s presence, giving the direction of the wind. But nonetheless Krystal remained cautious. Auds up and alert like two satellite dishes receiving signal. Bi-hued sapphire and emerald optics scanned the terra around the fae and revealed nothing out of place. A herd of questions trampled Krystal’s subconscious. One of those being, what a Varg of Sarnes was doing wondering so far away from their pack lands. The great river that cut the land in two, usually kept the wolves of List, Sarnes and Balkar isolated from the remaining packs on the opposite end. Yet there could be no doubt to Krystal that this scent of swampland could only be identified as that belonging to the miscreant Sarnes pack. The matter of how this wolf crossed the great river and its purpose for being along this stretch of terra would have to be discovered, for Ge-Rad could very well be in danger once again.

Images of the great battle that was fought between Ge-Rad, agianst the efforts of Sarnes and Balkar flooded the gates of Krystal’s mind, and with those images came hunches. Maybe this lone Varg was a scout, sent to check on the status of Ge-Rad. Or perhaps he or she was sent on ahead to give the all clear for the rest of the pack that would follow. If such was the case, Sarnes couldn’t have picked a better time to stage an attack. Ge-Rad currently harbored infant cubs within its protective borders. Ayasha’s litter was not but a week or so old and it would be impossible to move them at this point if an evacuation was given. The winter season was also around the corner, and the land of Ge-Rad itself was low on supplies of lera and herla alike. Hence was the whole reason why the lead scout was even out in this region in the first place. But now priorities shifted, as the scent of Sarnes kin was growing even more profound by the second. It seemed to Krystal that this Varg could appear any second, and the former Zanguzen wondered which one of them she would be encountering today.

No sooner was the question pondered; it was answered by the appearance of a fae as black as a Torless night, appearing along the path. At first glance, Krystal let loose a defensive snarl. She was the spitting image of Zukozu at ones initial gaze. The scent of thick nose wrenching marsh was upon the fae, and so it would be impossible to identify individuals by scent alone. But then Krystal noticed the stranger’s eyes, which were unlike Zukozu’s in every way. On the left stood the field of grass, and on the right the endless sea. Type one pinto eyes as referred to by man’s dialect. It was clear to Krystal now that this one wasn’t present in the great battle that took place at Cwen’s pond. But nonetheless the former Zanguzen remained ever cautious for evident the scent, she was still that of Sarnes creed. The Ge-Radian’s body remained tense and at the ready, and a loose growl lingered on Krystal’s tongue. There was still a small chance that this Varg of Sarnes knew not the scent of Ge-Rad, and so Krystal did not want to give away her ties to the Ge-Radian code. “You’re very far from your swamps.” Krystal spoke in a neutral tone.

[Takhi]

As Takhi neared the Ge-Radian wolf, the wind howled like an ominous cry; nature’s message for her to go no further if she valued her hide. The Varg could not interpret the warning made by the breeze and took no notice of it. It’s autumn. Wind is just part of it. No need to worry. Wrong! There was definitely a need to worry. In her old days when her disposition was much more vicious, this conflict would have been just another death added to the roster. But this time was different. She had softened. When she finally found love in a gray wolf called Frost, he dragged her away from the cruelness she had been born with. Now when a battle reared its head she actually took a moment to consider whether or not she should compete. A few years ago, she would have jumped right into it and slaughtered her opponents in a matter of minutes. Her kindness was not a debilitating aspect of her personality. The fae of Ge-Rad was already aware of the Sarnes wolf.

Takhi was upwind so her scent was carried right into Krystal’s nostrils. What made this stranger even more aggressive, beside the fact that an enemy was nearing the border, was that Ge-Rad was vulnerable. They had young pups that couldn’t endure an immediate evacuation and prey was getting harder to find, such was the purpose of this wolf’s presence. The deafening sound the Herla were creating made the paw steps of the wolves unheard. All there was to go by was scent and sight and Takhi could do neither when it came to the wolf of Ge-Rad. When she glanced at the herd walking parallel to her, she noticed that they were getting nervous. Some of them stopped and were gazing out into the trees, their ears rotating back and forth to receive a better range of sound. Some of the older bucks started to stomp their hooves. This was a warning. There was something out here besides Takhi. She knew because they were not focusing on her current position.

Takhi raised her snout to try to obtain any unfamiliar smells, but nothing could reach her nostrils except the stench of the woods and the deer. She kept sampling the air, then halted when her eyes finally caught what the animals were so startled about. It was another wolf that was stalking in the tress. The predator’s coat was black with an ivory belly. Its oculars sparkled with a sapphire hue accompanied by a hint of jade towards the edge. Because she still could not catch its scent, Takhi was unaware of its gender, that is, until it spoke with a feminine voice. The strange fae stated that Takhi was outside of the swamps.

Swamps? Oh, she means out of Sarnes territory.

This fae didn’t seem dangerous. Her tone had no hint of aggression. Perhaps it was just going to be another friendly introduction with someone new. That’s what she thought, but this was moments from turning ugly. “Yes, I am far from Sarnes aren’t I? You see, I’m not really part of the pack just yet. Until I’m approved, Shunke’ ordered that I not step a paw in their territory until she accepts me.” That was true, though Takhi didn’t realize that this new wolf was part of a pack that was an enemy to Sarnes. She shared the same odium that the rest of her family had for any wolf that crawled out of those swamps. The truth might have been what came out of Takhi’s maw, but would Krystal think it was a trick? Would she think that this was all part of a Sarnes plot so an invasion could begin? “I’m Takhi. Who are you?”

[Krystal Zanguzen]

Tension in the spread of air that separated Krystal and Takhi grew thick as the stench of Sarnes quagmire and the scent of Ge-Radian plains clashed with one another, locked in an eternal duel that would hold no end in sight. While scent clashed with stench, sapphire and emerald optics studied the stranger in question intently, dissecting every movement and note that resonated from Takhi for any sign of treachery. The craft of Sarnes was known to be very cunning and treacherous, using trickery and deceitfulness to gain the upper hand on their opposition. Such was the means on how Zukozu had managed to get under the skin and fur of their mighty amber Dragga several seasons ago, and Krystal was determined not to let such an event unfold itself again. Rather than rely on the words of a Sarnes creed, the lead scout turned to her own training and the guidance of nature for real answers. The wind in which favored the former Zanguzen still reviled only the trace of one swamp dweller, that much she knew was certain. But there was no telling the extent of Takhi’s abilities, at least not yet.

Sarnes and Ge-Rad remained bitter enemies, which meant one thing. As easily as it was for Krystal to distinguish the scent of Sarnes, such should be the case for a Varg of Sarnes to pick apart the smell of Ge-Rad from others. Yet even still, there was an aura of calmness that hung over Takhi’s form that was most disturbing. Could her words be true, and that Takhi was indeed a wolf waiting for acceptance from Sarnes? This would of course mean that she would have no knowledge of Ge-Radian scent, and that her wanderings in this terra could be mere coincidence. There was just too little information for the lead scout to go by at this point and for now Krystal figured it wise to go with the flow of things. If her hunch was right about this Sarnes fae, there was no sense in Krystal putting herself or Ge-Rad in any unnecessary dangers. “Krystal.” The Ge-Radian responded, her tone continued to bathe under the showers of neutrality. “If what you say is true, then why trek so far from where you may call home one day, especially in these lands of all places?”

“This land is very treacherous for your kind.” Krystal continued. “It would be wise if you turned back now. Going any farther may result in more dire consequences, the varg here aren’t too friendly to Sarnes you see.” The Ge-Radians final sentence was spoken with an aura of warning that verged on the borderline of threatening. She could not allow Takhi to venture any closer to Ge-Rad’s borders then she all ready had. If not for this encounter, Krystal’s priority would have been the herd of Herla that were located not too far from where the two wolves currently stood. Their scent too now mixed with the aroma of Ge-Rad and stink or Sarnes. More silence ensued now, for the wind had died down a bit and the creatures of the forest had ceased their chattering. One could say that they were curious to the outcome of this encounter, and recognized the importance of the meeting between these two fae. Krystal remained in her position, as she continued to stare down Takhi with eyes that tried to hide the hate in which she carried for the Sarnes craft with a thick plume of impartiality. The lead scout had purposely left out her ties to Ge-Rad in the introductions, as a test to see whether or not Takhi could pin the former Zanguzen as a Ge-Radian, or believe her to be simply a wandering kerl of the land. The latter would be more convenient, and Krystal hoped for such.




//ooc: 400th Post!!!!!!//

[Takhi]

Takhi knew a critical eye when she saw one. Krystal’s gaze buried itself deep into her flesh, scorching her soul like a raging wildfire. This is what she felt as the strange wolf observed her like a prey item she was planning to hunt. Already, Takhi got a bad impression from this fae, like one she experienced when meeting the cannibal of Sarnes. Now she too observed this wolf, her oculars studying each inch of the fae’s body. Her right shoulder held the marking of an emerald crescent moon against her ebony fur. Her structure was fairly slim, vague muscles broadened underneath the thick, layered coat. She was designed to run, but desired to fight. Takhi, on the other hand, was more heavily muscled but had relatively long limbs compared to her body, making her able to run at high speeds. Her chest was large, holding a great heart she needed for endurance. In a hunt, it was not about outrunning your prey, just outlasting them.

Takhi wondered why this wolf felt she had the obligation to tell her where and where not she could be. Why should she be told what territory to walk in or not to? The woods was no pack’s territory, it just happened to border one which made it perfectly okay for any Varg, pack member or Kerl, to venture into. This wolf should learn to guard her pack, not the woods. It wasn’t hers. Even though Takhi did not agree with what Krystal stated, she did not release any emotions from her expression. Her face did not twist with annoyance and irritation like it had in her mind. Instead, the feeling of tranquility remained, trying with every ounce of control she had to keep the peace. Unfortunately, Krystal made it very apparent that she was required to explain herself, explain why she was far from Sarnes. Who cares? Is it a rule that one must stay with the pack at all times?

Without hesitation, she replied to the stranger. “Sarnes is rather inactive. I believe they are conserving energy for the winter. Fenris knows, we’ll all need energy for that. With the cooler season being around the corner, they are discussing whether or not they can accommodate me and have one more mouth to feed. It could be a while before I actually am fully accepted. Shunke’ will most likely send a scout for me. Until then, I am not permitted to walk in their territory.” She gave her answer that made her point. She figured this confrontation was over until Krystal said that she should go no further because Sarnes wolves were not welcomed. Now, she felt she had the right to threaten Takhi?

“Why should these woods be dangerous for “my kind”? I met Red February months ago in these exact woods and she’s from Sarnes! Granted, it was not a pleasant meeting, considering she was trying to kill me and a Koran member named Alice.” Takhi was right. Where was this defensive wolf then? She could have helped them out. Takhi was a Kerl at that time. When a Sarnes would was attacking a loner and a blind Koranian she couldn’t have appeared to protect her pack? Where was the mighty wolf guard then?

Is it because these woods are bordering the pack of Ge-Rad? That’s it. This is a Ge-Radian wolf. I may not have met one before, but I’m sure of it. I know where all the pack territories are. That’s what you learn when you wander as a Kerl. But why didn’t she say she was…wait. She threatened me because I’m in league with Sarnes. There must be a history between the two packs…a bad one.

Raging thoughts danced in her mind as she finally put the pieces together. That was why this Varg was ready to tell Takhi where to go and turn back. But after hearing Takhi’s explanation, how could she believe that Takhi was up to trouble?

[Krystal Zanguzen]

In a world filled with uncertainties and parallel dangers, few things in life were deemed certain. Bi-hued sapphire and emerald eyes of this former Zanguzen however, could make sense of what would otherwise remain insensible and lame. They studied and decoded the world within Krystal’s gaze, and such were doing so with Takhi. The two wolves were studying each other from a safe and audible distance. Perhaps Takhi was gauging the situation with her own bi-hued optics, seeing perhaps who would emerge victorious if a clash of teeth and fangs were to indeed ensue. At least that was what Krystal initially thought, until the Nieten from Sarnes spoke in such a way that left the lead scout intrigued to say the least. Though the stench of Sarnes clung heavily to Takhi’s midnight pelt, the fae’s demeanor spoke a more calm and controlled tongue. The Ge-Radian’s questions were answered promptly, and seemed to make sense with the coming of winter only weeks away. But still, the former Zanguzen couldn’t slay the feelings of mistrust and mal words that were a common practice in Sarnes teachings.

There was no way to tell for sure if Takhi’s words were indeed truthful, so Krystal felt no need to stand down to them. Takhi’s following lyrics only helped to reassure the Ge-Radian’s initial suspicions, she would remember to inform her Dragga that Sarnes varg were out and about close to Ge-Radian borders. But for now, there was this current matter to attend to. “So you can understand then, why Sarnes isn’t looked upon as a friend in this region.” Krystal explained. “That’s why I’m letting you know, that it’d be much safer for you if you crossed the river in which you took to get here. It’s only for your own safety of course…” Krystal added her last sentence in, in order to conceal her ties to the Ge-Rad pack, by now she was almost certain that Takhi could not recognize Krystal’s ties to Ge-Rad. If at all possible, the ebony and ivory fae would keep it as such. “If Koran or Ge-Rad found out about your wonderings in this region, it could spur unnecessary bloodshed.” Krystal remained in her place; her tone had remained neutral, in hopes that she could convince this Sarnes varg to turn tail.

The winds had suddenly changed direction, turning the tides of scent in opposite crossings. Autumn leaves danced in the new change of winds and spiraled in the air like tiny acrobat artists. They made the only noise in what would otherwise be a silent moment. The Ge-Radian’s scent now flowed unhindered toward Takhi’s direction. This worried Krystal a bit, but she still remained confident that Takhi wouldn’t be able to put the puzzle pieces in their proper place. “Did your future Drappa tell you…?” Krystal continued after a momentary pause of silence. “Of her last venturing into Ge-Rad’s pack borders? Rumor has it that she came out on the losing end of an encounter with a Ge-Radian, and was sent back to the marsh with bruised to broken ribs. Bad blood exists between the packs of this region, and yours. They won’t care if you’re awaiting entry or not, as you say. You’ll be treated just as Shunke was, or possibly worse. I’d hate to see that kind of fate fall on you. I truly wish you had made a better choice in choosing pack ties.” There was really nothing else Krystal could say, and the lead scout of Ge-Rad waited to see if her words had hit home. One way or another, Takhi would venture no closer to the land in which Krystal called home.

[Takhi]

It seemed Takhi’s calm disposition had worked to ease the wolf. Still, Krystal continued to stare with those critical eyes. She found it funny how the Ge-Rad fae kept herself from mentioning where she had come from and what she was so protective about. Interesting. If Krystal was trying to conceal her ties with them, she was doing a horrible job. Just by being in these woods, where the pack borders lied, was enough to confirm it. But then she spoke of them, then Koran, again nicely avoiding having to mention her family. That was her mistake. Takhi knew that no Koran wolf would go after her. Though they are not comfortable with wolves from Sarnes, they would not ever harm her. When one is a Kerl, friends are made everywhere and a good portion of hers came from that pack. Takhi was almost about to shake her head, visual proof that Krystal was not making herself look any better than she already had. Luckily, she withheld her sarcastic gesture and let the yin yang fae continue.

The fae’s scent blew into Takhi’s nose. It was the stench of the grass and trees, the shrubs and plants. These mixes of smells were from the meadow and the woods, the two areas that Ge-Rad both occupied. Why try to deny it now? The smell has proved where she had been. Suddenly, Krystal began to tell a little tale of the Sarnes leader, Shunke.’ Apparently, the Drappa had wandered into the territory and a Ge-radian sent her back to the bogs with nothing but injuries to her body and pride. Then the warning came; it could happen to you. Takhi knew that Sarnes was not the most beloved group of wolves so it was no surprise that something like that happened. ‘Rumor has it.’ Takhi blinked, rolling her eyes underneath her lids. She was thinking that she really was not good at a lie. She might of thought she had the nomad fooled, but that wasn’t going to happen anytime soon.

Was it you who had attacked Shunke’ or are you a simple bystander?

“Let’s stop trying to bury our secrets here,” she began, her tone still calm, but with a slight tinge of strength, “You are a Ge-Rad wolf, plain and simple.” Yes, she was blunt, but in this situation, she had to be. “You see, one thing you should have realized was that, I was a Kerl. In case you have forgotten, loners get around a lot am I right? One who wanders gets to know where every piece of prey is, where every wolf is, and where every pack is. It was no secret to me that Ge-Rad is around here.” This was probably what Krystal was fearing the whole time; a completed puzzle with everything aligned. “Your protective nature gave it away and also by telling me Koran would come after me was when I was positive. You see, I know many wolves from Koran and I know none of them would forget me. I may have chosen Sarnes, but that was no mistake on my part.”

OOC: This post was a lil weak. I had a good one in my head, but couldn't get it out. Heh heh.

[Krystal Zanguzen]

Takhi’s instincts were spot on of course; no Ge-Radian was ever good at lying. Such ways of mistrust and deceit weren’t custom in Ge-Rad law and practice. Ebon auds twitched at the mention of truth, as Takhi pieced together a picture that Krystal had hoped would remain out of focus. She sighed, knowing full well that the kerl soon to be Sarnes was right. “You know, I was really hoping to avoid any further complications.” The former Zanguzen had to be careful how she handled the situation from here on out. If things got really bad, another full scale war could very well be the consequence, and such an outcome could not come to pass if helped. “You’re right; I guess I’m not really a good liar.” Krystal spoke calmly, confirming Takhi’s suspicions. “I’ll get straight to the point then.” Her tone was stern, she had to be for this situation where the unexpected could be made reality. “Our packs don’t see eye to eye. So rather than risk Sarnes blood peddling around the outer edges of our boarder, you should just be on your way. Only a precaution you see, you’re stepping way to close to my home that your pack tried to destroy not too long ago. I’ve every reason to question your interests.”

At this point, Takhi wasn’t leaving the lead scout with many options. If the Nieten of Sarnes didn’t leave soon, the former Zanguzen would have no choice but to get aggressive and take the initiative. Even if it did lead to war in the long run, Sarnes would still need time to prepare, which would give the newborn cubs in Ge-Rad some time to grow and perhaps enough time to get them out of the terra if a battle was to indeed ensue. To Krystal, there seemed to be no easy way out of this situation. Takhi was stubborn, and she doubted the likely hood of the black fae to turn tail. Then a thought played into Krystal’s mind. What if Takhi didn’t make it back to Sarnes? Certainly Sarnes wouldn’t be able to place her disappearance on Ge-Rad without any evidence. Krystal shook her thoughts away; thinking in such context was not the way of Ge-Rad. There was no sense in killing, or spilling blood for that matter. Those thoughts were Zanguzen in nature, and the very notion of it made Krystal’s stomach churn. In a situation that seemed so uncertain, only one thing remained clear. The safety of Ge-Rad came first, and what needs to be done, would be done to keep that safety.

//ooc: I apologize for this horrendous post. You deserve much better than this, and you will get it. I’m kinda rusty but I’m sure it’ll be better next time around.//

[Takhi]

Takhi’s head twitched and a grin spread across her dark face with satisfaction as Krystal finally admitted that she was from Ge-Rad. She knew it wouldn’t be long before the truth would be revealed, but it just had to be pulled out of the bad liar. “Not a good liar? That’s an understatement. You’re downright pathetic at it,” she laughed. Spoken like a true expert in deceit. That whole story about not being part of Sarnes yet could have been a lie and Krystal would have ate it up like she had already done. How did she know what was fiction or fact if she had no connections with Shunke’? The Drappa knew where Takhi stood so far in Sarnes.

Further complications…bare just one fang at me and you’ll see how complicated something can get.

The Ge-Radian went on with her explanation, stating that she did not want to have Sarnes near her pack when there was an attempted invasion a time ago. “Question my interests?” Takhi growled as she stood up and began to creep back and forth, almost temped to circle her opponent. “No doubt, you are just trying to protect your family, but you don’t even know me. You have no right to judge me and no right to assume what my motives are. Unless I step a paw across your borders, I am committing no crime. By the will of Tor, I will not be on my way for these woods belong to no one.” Her eyes were cold and stared with a fierceness that would stun the Lera in their tracks. “You preach to me that you are just protecting the pack, but I might ask why? Is there a secret you are trying to hide again?"

“Is your family weakened by an unexpected blessing or curse? Shunke’ would enjoy this information wouldn’t she? She’d enjoy getting her revenge and destroy your life and pride.” Stab after stab, the provoking comments came storming out of Takhi’s jaws. Her tail had risen straight up and her ears were flat, but her grim smile never slipped away. She felt a low growl rumble in her belly and make its way up to her chest, then her throat, ceasing it before it could ever be heard. “If you had not demanded me to leave, I just might have.” That was a pure lie. As stubborn as she was, she would have remained, throwing insults in every direction. It was just the way she was with foolish Vargs like Krystal.

I am Sarnes. If a Ge-Rad wolf shall be my enemy, so be it.

OOC: Yeah, Same here!!!

[Krystal Zanguzen]

If patience could be converted into a barrel full of water, where water represented the tolerance the Ge-Radian had for this Sarnes wrench, the barrel would be running dry at an alarming pace. As if someone had punctured a gaping hole in the wood to sprawl across the ground a puddle of moist impatience. Takhi may yet still be waiting for acceptance into the creed of Sarnes, but her ways would no doubt assure her a place among their ranks. Foul mouthed, and a knack for pushing buttons in order to get what one wants. In any case, such a spell had been casted expertly upon the Ge-Radian, and Krystal could feel her patience slipping away from her. And once again those thoughts came into play for a mind tainted of old Zanguzen ways. Would it not be easier to just spill Takhi’s blood here and now? The possible contest was a miss match on all proportions, as Krystal knew without any doubt of the letter, that she possessed all the advantages in this possible conflict. Experience, speed and agility all favored the Ge-Radian trained in the arts of her heritage. It would be over quickly, and to rid herself of this troublesome menace offered a very enticing teaser to a riled up fae.

Takhi’s snake like words and spell casting dialect proved more and more prominent with each passing lyric. Causing the bi-hued fae to growl and flash ivory incisors as if these very words somehow caused harm, but in truth they caused irritation. Had Takhi not been tainted by the swamps, her lyrics would have spoken more volumes. Had she not been drenched in the filthy odor or marsh and bog, there would be some truth to her words. But sadly, Takhi’s presence could be considered nothing less than threat and a nuisance. It almost seemed that the Nietan could do no more coxing of rage yet somehow she found one more button to push, touching upon a subject that caught the Ge-Radian of guard, though it was simply a guess on Takhi’s part. Ge-Rad indeed sheltered a both a blessing and a vulnerability. “Are you trying to get yourself killed!” The words rushed out of Krystal’s maw faster then she could stop them, and with a ferocity and tone that was unlike her. Rather, it was Zanguzen in nature as bi-hued optics flashed a brilliant emerald green. Malicious pools gazed coldly upon one no longer looked upon as a fellow varg, but rather as potential pray.

Krystal could feel herself losing control, as image upon image of carving flesh from bone ravaged and plundered her mind. Senses heightened in this state of awareness, she could smell the putrid blood that ran through Takhi’s veins. She could see the swaying movements made by this Sarnes wrench with clarity unmatched. “Your foul maw is getting old fast.” Was spoken those same cold lyrics, drenched in liquid nitrogen and bathed in a tone so cold, it could burn ones flesh off your very bones. “Tell me, will you still be able to speak if I rip a hole in your throat?” The former Zanguzen spoke menacingly. “Let’s find out shall we?” Krystal took a few steps forward at a slow pace. Like predator stalking pray, her Zanguzen nature had taken hold, using bloodlust as a catalyst. However what came next was unexpected. For the bi-hued fae suddenly halted, almost as if invisible chains had reached their limit and held a tiger at bay from its pray. Though Krystal is Zanguzen by blood, it is a Ge-Radian heart that pumps that blood through her arteries and veins. That very heart alone is what saved Takhi’s life on this day.

Slowly, Krystal was regaining control or herself. Through sheer will power, she had fought back against instinct, and had finally gotten a foot hold again. This act that had nearly gone to pass would not have been the Ge-Rad way. Rather, it would fall on the lines of Sarnes, Balkar and more importantly, it would be Zanguzen in nature. “If I kill her now, I’ll be no better than one of them.” Krystal thought, referring to her blood family. A grin flashed on the Ge-Radian’s maw, followed by a chuckle. Emerald orbs flashing brilliantly as she spoke. “I can tell by the way you move, you’re fighting skills are undisciplined, sloppy at best.” Krystal turned a bit, so that her right side faced Takhi’s front, revealing her Zanguzen insignia while eyes still locked firmly on the Sarnes witch. “You’re not worth my time little one, so I’ll let you live today, you should be grateful. However…” Malice had returned in her voice once again. It had been toned down a bit before, but no longer. Krystal had to make her point very clear. “If I ever catch a wiff of your grime in my home, I will not hesitate in gorging on your dead corpse. I may have allowed your Drappa to leave with her with broken bones and her tail between her legs, but in Tor’s name, you will not have that same luxury. Do well to remember that.” Having said her peace, Krystal gave Takhi her back and had begun to make her leave. Though the Ge-Radian had managed to regain some control, staying any longer was too big a risk to take. There was no telling if she could hold herself back a second time.

[Takhi]

The powerful desire had returned, an urge that had been suppressed for so long, it not awakening within her veins since the battle with Red February: the desire to kill. Takhi’s taunting comments flowed from her voice as effortlessly as blood seeping out of a wound upon the throat. She smiled malevolently as she peered at Krystal’s face. It had become twisted with agitation and most likely, a hint of rage. This was the reaction the dark Varg looked for. She was waiting for this Ge-Radian to snap so she could have an excuse to reveal how fierce a fighter one can be. Takhi’s hidden skills proved to be a mystery to Krystal and this gave her the upper paw. She was not aware that Takhi had once been a murderer, that her own kin and friends met their fate by her jaws. She was a wolf of betrayal, at least, she once was. It seemed as if this enemy was going to draw out the slaughterer once more, much to her misfortune. Takhi was not afraid to engage in battle. Her life consisted of constant violence, one wolf after the other, dropping to their bellies with the hue of crimson staining their pelts.

Not only were Vargs killed, but dogs and foxes were also on the list if they dared to approach with cruel intentions. Hell, her first taste of murder began when she was a pup at the age of 2 moons old. She knocked her own sister down to her watery grave when a flash flood ran rabid through their home. Takhi’s mother followed soon after as she tried desperately to save her offspring. Her brother had fallen down a rocky slope and when Takhi went to save him, she stopped and stepped away, watching him fall down to his demise below. After that experience, murder was a pretty easy thing to get use to. She was born with a taste for a massacre.

A deep, dark secret loomed in the shadows of her soul, a creature defined as not an angel or a demon, neither alive nor dead, its powers both a blessing and a curse. This is what was waiting for just a hint of irritation from its host. Only with anger can the creature draw upon energy and release the fury of The Putnar. The spirits of all predators come together as one and are set free into the world, focused on the host’s target. Only the dead know of what dwells inside of the normally peaceful Takhi. Replying to the first outburst of Krystal, “Whether a survivor or the murdered,” she snorted, “I have already touched noses with the dead.” She was coldly referring to her secret. Being born with a possession makes you as close to the diseased as you will ever be until you are taken from the world of living. “Well, if my mouth bothers you, come over and rip my jaws apart, if you can.” Takhi’s lip curled. Krystal threatened with a suggestion of tearing her throat. Her impatience had grown into a quite peeved off mood. ‘Let’s find out shall we?’ Krystal said as she began to step closer toward the Sarnes wolf. Immediately, Takhi’s tail rose upward into the dominant position. Her ears turned toward her scruff, both now lying flat against her fur. When Krystal halted, her eyes widened with surprise.

She stopped, the second voice in her head spoke. It must mean she is weak, being cursed with a warm and sympathetic heart.

Yes, that must be it. Why else discontinue the challenge? she replied to the ghost.

She deserves no ounce of your sympathy. It was she who threatened you and now one must pay the consequences for getting their tail into more trouble than one can handle.[/i]

As Krystal seemed to realize what she was doing, or was about to do, she decided to return the jabs against pride by saying that her movements showed sloppy fighting skills. This made Takhi laugh to herself, another smile spreading over her maw, a sinister expression made flesh. Then the threats came once more as she promised to kill old Takhi if she were to be among this territory again. “Gorge on my corpse, will you? How many Vargs have you murdered with your own teeth? Have you tackled the wild dog, the fox, even man himself? I have! That human’s blood was spilled by me! Don’t give yourself the false guarantee that I will not do the same to you!” Takhi’s teeth were bared in a fearsome snarl. As Krystal turned her back on the midnight fae, it prompted Takhi to do what she had controlled for so many moons.

Taste her blood. Do it! Kill her! Rip her apart limb from limb! Be who you are and sink your teeth into her flesh!!!

You’re right, aren’t you? She should have never turned her back on me!!![/i][/color]

With a furious snarl, before she really knew what she was doing, Takhi lunged. Her paws propelled her upward into a leap, her claws extended, her jaws gaping, heading right toward her rival: Krystal.
Her focus returned as she realized that was an image that her demon had planted in her mind, hoping that Takhi would be pressured to do it. She stopped, and suppressed her anger once more.

What are you doing? She is a sitting duck. Kill her!!!

No...I must wait. There is something telling me that I must return to Sarnes without my hide torn and retreive one of my pack mates. But this isn't over. I will return and we will fight.[/i][/color]

Her eyes narrowed, ears lying flat, fangs petruding. Takhi turned away, her tail held high with confidence. As a good distance was put between her and the Ge-Radian, she growled, "We will meet again. Next time I will not walk away and blood shall spill." Takhi would return to the swamps and alert the pack members of what she had discovered. Ge-Rad was vulnerable, she knew it. Krystal tried to hide it, but it had not escaped the skeptisism of the ebon fae. What was the cause of this weakness was unknown, but there was something that the yin yang Varg was trying desperatly to protect. Perhaps it was for elders, ones who had aged so that they could not defend themselves. Or perhaps pups were born. The young lives would become the new generation, but could cripple the pack if there happened to be an invasion. Only one thing was certain: this had to be reported and Takhi's place in the pack could be officially sealed.