Just the Beginning

[Sorcha]

The bright face of Fenris hangs high in the sky, but he is noticeably on his way toward the western horizon. With the shortening of days the night comes more swiftly, and the two young faes on their way home to Ge-Rad are grateful that they have made such good time. The older fae, a grey yearling, swishes her tail behind her as she pauses and looks ahead of her, making sure she is headed in the right direction. The land has been familiar since midday, but it feels different somehow, coming home with a new "sister", ready to join the proud pack. Sorcha glances over at her smaller companion and smiles, it took only a second to get her bearings, and as she looks at the eager face of the sweet brown cub she thinks again how fortunate it was that she came across her the other night. Not only was it providential for Mayta, but also for the older cub. As much as Sorcha would say for certain that she lacks almost nothing and is very happy with her life and her pack, she is sometimes a little bit lonely. Having grown up without any littermates, and no other cubs steadily in the pack, she has always wanted a friend close to her own age. She is so happy now to be bringing Mayta home to join Ge-Rad. There is no doubt in her mind that her father will accept the young fae, and she will take all responsibility for her friend, and will teach her everything she knows, and give her all the love that she has lacked in the past weeks without a family.

Turning again to look at the brown cub, Sorcha's clear blue-grey eyes sparkle and dance happily. "We're almost there, Mayta! We certainly made good time." Lifting her eyes to the clear blue sky she grins as the god seems to wink at her. Sweeping her gaze across the beautiful, familiar lands she is pleased that they are so beautiful for Mayta's first look at them. The trees are in the height of their color, and all images of autumn are in full reality. Golden yellows, bright and rusty oranges, and deep scarlet and burnished reds mix and dance together as the leaves of the tall trees move in the wind. The hills and forests of the Ge-Radian lands are lit up in a kind of autumn fire - as if the trees knew what a gift the land is getting by Mayta's presence and decided stay in the pack. "Isn't it beautiful? What did I tell you! Oh... this is just one of the reasons I love Ge-Rad, and I know you will grow to love it too."

Bounding forward lightly, but slowly enough that the brown fae will have no trouble keeping up, Sorcha heads directly toward the heart of her packlands, knowing that that is the most likely place to find her father. In the past weeks the two of them have grown swiftly, and though Sorcha is older than her "sister", Mayta is no longer a chubby little pup tripping over her own paws. Sorcha has grown into an almost identical image of her mother, though she has own personality, and has begun the lessons she needs to be the pack's healer. She is modest and thoughtful, and has a definite gift when it comes to empathy and healing... it must be interesting for those around her to see how she has grown and what her differences are from the rest of her family.

Barking softly in pure joy, Sorcha lopes gracefully along, the cool breeze ruffling her soft fur and her sharp ears picking up the thud swish of Mayta beside her, feeling completely content. What more could she ask for or want?

[Mayta]

A huge smile ran across Mayta’s maw, she couldn’t be happier, she was on her way to her new home with her “sister” and best friend by her side. Many things had changed since her and Sorcha decided that they would venture back to Ge-Rad together and she would join the pack and have a family again; something she yearned for more than life itself. She missed her parents, but she had to put that behind her, she would never see them again; at least not until she came to see them in the red meadow years down the road. The chocolate fae pushed the thoughts of her past from her mind, she looked up to bold Fenris who was beginning to fade, but still fighting to stay; she closed her eyes and thanked the gods once more for the fortune they had laid upon her.

Lowering her muzzle, her emerald speckled orbs fixed on the grey fae at her side, Sorcha. She had grown since they first met, and have become closer then Mayta could have ever imagined. Pausing in her stride, the brown fae looked at her self; no longer was she a starving cub, but thanks to both Sorcha and her dear “mum” Mist, she had grown and become a beautiful fae. She still had some growing to do, which was evident by her somewhat out of proportion ears and paws, but for the most part she had grown into her long legs and tail, her pelt glimmered in Fenris’ light as if she had flecks of gold throughout. Coming back to reality she focused on catching up with Sorcha who had ventured a little further ahead while Mayta was daydreaming. Unlike before she had no trouble, her long legs carried her like the wind and before long she was prancing beside her dear friend.

“Oh I can’t wait to get there and meet your family Sorcha! I hope they accept me the way you have accepted me into your life.” Mayta smiled gently at her “sister” once more as they continued their trot. Soon the smell of the territory boundary hit her square on; she knew they were crossing over into the land of Ge-Rad. Her heart began to race from the excitement, and she had a feeling deep down, that she was finally home after months of being lost. “What’s it like having a family? Growing up with at least one parent and having siblings and pack mates, it must be an amazing feeling to be so loved.”

The leaves on the trees burnt with vibrant oranges, yellows and reds as they swayed in the cool fall breeze. The images in front of her were mesmerizing and only the grey fae’s excited bark broke her trance. “It is beautiful, just as you said! I’ve never seen so much color and beauty. Thank you Sorcha, thank you for bringing me here; I already love it!” Following Sorcha’s excited yelp, she picks up the pace so that she is just behind the grey fae, Mayta knows that she is in search of her father, the Dragga of GeRad in hopes that he will accept Mayta into his family. Sorcha has told her before that she has no doubts that Draeg will accept her, and Mayta trusts her with all her heart.

As the breeze floats through her pelt, new smells begin to enter her delicate nose. Many other varg smells engulf her senses and she begins to get nervous. She realized that she is going to be surrounded by new faces, ones she has never met. “Sorcha” she asks questionably, “it is alright that I’m here isn’t it? I mean I don’t have to give Tratto’s Blessing since I’m with you right? I just don’t want to step on any one’s paw you know?” She knows that her friend would never lead her into danger, but these are questions she must know, the brown fae is still learning about the ways of the world and any opportunity to learn she will take. She slows to a stop, looking worried for a moment, hoping that Sorcha will ease all her worries as she has done in the past. Her ears are low and to the side, and her tail hangs straight down, not a single motion in it; even though Mayta has grown up so much, she still has a lot of growing to do.

[Kehré]

//hope you dont' mind me joining in, trying to get back into the swing of things ^^; //

Chilly winds rushed through the changing leaves upon the tree, as birds from afar chirped and squawked as they flew over the lands in a v-shape formation. Squirrels had begun to frantically collect and bury nuts of assortment, while rabbits and other lera ate the green foliage nonstop while it would last. All around were tall-tell signs of fall and the coming winter, even the vargs’ coats were starting to thicken, and Kehré was no exception to that. Her summer slim form was now gradually masked by a winter white bulk, which the fae didn’t mind at all. The thicker her coat meant the longer she could sleep outside of the den, nestled almost nakedly in just a small bed of grass, observing the stars as she slowly drifted to sleep. It wasn’t that she was antisocial or anything, she just simply liked to just observe the beauty around her.

Yawning widely as she stretched her silver paws upon the earth, Kehré shook her drowsy head as she swished her tail. Another plus side to sleeping outside the den was she could be as lazy as she wanted, and sleep in to her hearts desire. Blinking her mother’s blue green oculars, Kehré observed the forest around her, and she slowly begun to shuffle through Ge-Rad’s forest. Yawning widely again, Kehré only stopped to scratch an ear, when she heard voices afar. Licking her silver lips, the young fae tilted her head in curiosity, she knew one of those voices. It was Sorcha’s, Draeg’s and Cwen’s last cub, and the pack’s youngest varg. Though now as a full winter had passed, Kehré was sure Sorcha was just about full grown, and the last time she saw the cub she had the looks of her deceased mother.

Feeling a little excited to see her pack mate again, and also curious to see who the youngster had brought along, Kehré bounded forward, her tail swishing behind her. “Sorcha!” Kehré’s vocals rang out joyfully, as the youngster’s silver form came into view, along with another smaller she-wolf. Slowing to a stop, blue-green oculars observed the unknown she-cub. This one was a chocolate brown, and perhaps just a playmate Sorcha had met. Kehré stopped and cocked her head in curiosity, though her tail still waving high in the air. Though full grown now, Kehré was still just a youngster herself, only a couple months older than Sorcha. “Hey, cub-” Kehré greeted the younger one, then looked back up at Sorcha in curiosity.

[Sorcha]

Turning to wink at her dear friend, Sorcha listens to the other's words and shakes her head, her eyes dancing merrily. "Oh, darling Mayta, there's no need to fear of that. I know Daddy will accept you, and even if we won't always get to spend much time with him 'cause he's so busy, I know he'll be happy to have you in the pack." They continue in silence for the next few moments until they reach the pack boundary, and Mayta almost stops, continuing noticeably more cautiously. It is not that Sorcha didn't notice the boundary, but just that she has crossed it so many times and knows that, since she is one of the pack, she doesn't need to ask for Tratto's Blessing before entering. It is like a quiet song someone is humming from a distance... something that you know is there, but do not comment on or actively realize. "It's... well, it's a little hard to explain, since I don't know what it is like to grow up without a family. But yes, it truly is wonderful. I can't imagine life without my Dad, and without Shayla, and Uskiya and all my pack mates. I'm so glad you decided to come with me, so you can know for yourself what that feels like."

As the two continue on, side by side, the colors and sights assail Sorcha's eyes, but most definitely in a good way. She swishes her tail behind her in complete happiness, looking about her at all the familiar trees and niches. A small group of low willow trees near a tiny brook catch her eye and she smiles, calling Mayta's attention to them after she comments on the amazing natural beauty of the trees in their full fall color. "See those willows, Mayta? How they form a little cave? I played in them all the time when I was little. I sometimes pretended that I was a great healer, and I was on my way to go help someone and was stopping there for the night. There were other games I played by myself, but I must say, it is always so much more fun when you have someone else to play with." Grinning, she turns back to look at the chocolate fae. "Oh, I'm so happy to hear that! I knew you'd love it... it's just so good to hear you say it!"

They are nearing the center of the pack lands now - the area where most of the vargs live, and Sorcha, only moments before Mayta speaks, suddenly wonders if her friend has any doubts. The hesitant words only seconds later make her pause, and she looks with concerned but encouraging eyes at her friend. "We're going right away to find Daddy, and if we come across anyone they'll know you have permission to be here because you're with me, and I obviously gave it to you. Truly Mayta, there is no need to worry, I'm well versed in the proper ways of doing things in packs, plus, I would never take you into a situation that would be bad for either of us. Trust me, darling. It will all be well."

Just as she finishes speaking, a new, but faintly familiar scent strikes her, making her turn sharply to look to her left at a newcomer. It is just then that she hears her name barked in a voice she has not heard for a long time, and it was much younger then. Her silvery-blue eyes widen as a lithe young fae comes into sight. "Kehré!" She barks in surprise. "What... where..." She says in disbelief. "Where have you been? Is Kenjo here too?" She has not seen either of the siblings since they were all very little, when they played together and chased butterflies and frogs. As the long absent fae's gaze turns to Mayta, Sorcha lowers her tail in momentary embarrassment. "Oh, goodness, I'm sorry. Kehré, this is Mayta; Mayta, this is Kehré. Mayta, I played with Kehré and her brother when we were very little. Kehré, I've... adopted Mayta, in a way, as a sister. She's come back with me to join Ge-Rad."

[Mayta]

As she walks with her dear friend, the fiery colors of fall dance in her emerald speckled eyes, and she cannot believe the beauty surrounding Ge-Rad; she has never seen such a place. Sorcha’s warm, loving voice enters her auds and her look of worry is replaced by a caring smile, Mayta is glad that she will have a place to call home, and a pack to call family. “There is no where else I would rather be then at home with you, my sister.” She winked playfully at the silver fae and chuckled slightly. Her two tone tail begins to sway back and forth as she walks by her “sisters” side, she never once thought she would have a sister, much less a whole pack to call family. This is the life the gods had laid out for her, and she was glad to follow her destiny.

For a moment the two continue their travels in silence, taking in the amazing beauty around them. As Sorcha reminisces about her child hood, Mayta’s smile widens, maybe they can have a chance to play together again once things settle down and she is accepted into the pack. “Well we may just have to play healer one day, I can be injured and you can find which herb or flower is needed to fix me. Sounds like good practice for the future healer of Ge-Rad.”

Mayta seems to worry a lot, especially when in new territory and in pack lands. Once again she is panic stricken and looks to Sorcha for help. Just as she always has she is there with kind words and love, “Thank you Sorcha, one day you will make a great pack healer, to me you already are one.” The chocolate and tan cub gently licks the gray fae’s cheek in gratitude and her tail begins to sway back and forth again.

Just as they are about to continue their travels, Sorcha stops as if something hits her; then the scent of another fae engulfs her senses. Mayta’s tail though still wagging, slows and wonders who this fae is. She unnoticeably slips a little behind her friend so that Sorcha can great the new comer first. The brown fae does not like any attention, she likes to watch and take in things before she is involved in them. A sigh of relief escapes her chest when she realized that Sorcha and the ivory fae know each other and is evident that they had not seen each other in many moons. She smiles at them and as she is spoken to by the fae, she nods and wags her tail faster. She listens as the silver fae introduces them. “It’s a pleasure to meet you Kehre.” That is all she really has to say, Sorach has filled in the rest of who Mayta is and why she is here. Now she will just listen and learn.

She rests back on her haunches; her tassel sweeps the ground sending some of the leaves that have fallen scurrying away. As Mayta has grown, she has learned patience; before she would be playing with a bug that caught her eye, or running in circles around Sorcha wanting to continue their journey to find the Dragga. But today, today she sits and waits patiently, letting her “sister” reunite with a dear friend whom she hasn’t seen in a long time.

[Krystal Zanguzen]

//I was invited to join//

Today would be another fine autumn day in the world of Ge-Rad. The ancient sentries of the land stood tall as always, draped in their new autumn decor of red, orange and yellow. A soothing breeze combed the terra, causing the leaves in which adorned these relics to sway and dance. One could say that they wore the colors as badges of honor, for protecting the land of Ge-Rad from harsh heat, and surviving the awful winters these lands at times had to endure. On this day, they looked upon the terra proudly and watched as the creatures of the land sought shelter from the rise of Fenris’ orb, or from the putnar that roamed the lands of Ge-Rad. The greatest of these putnar, the Varg of Ge-Rad, roamed their homeland in usual fashion. There was always much to do for the members of the Ge-Rad pack, for it took much work to keep a pack stable and healthy, especially in these times where lera were beginning their migration habits, and winter’s breath would soon be upon the inhabitants of this great land. On this day, the weather could not have been more tranquil, with Fenris’ heat at just the right temperature, and life could be heard all over the forests. Perhaps this was the calm before an inevitable storm, as said by the wisest of Varg.

An autumn flavored leaf drifted aimlessly in the wind that blew westward, flipping and tumbling in every which way on its course to a nameless destination. But the destination in itself wasn’t important, more so was the very journey, and the freedom of traversing on the whims of the wind, free to see the world for its beauty and majesty, if such a fate was in store for this little autumn leaf. On this occasion, this free floating leaf landed in front of an ebony and ivory fae who was taking a stroll along one of the many paths that wound through Ge-Rad’s redwood labyrinth. Bi-hued sapphire and emerald orbs followed the leaf on its trek to inevitability. Perplexity and wonder were painted on the bi-colored Ge-Radian’s form as though an artist had captured the very emotions with the stroke of their paintbrush on that canvas that is Krystal’s gaze. The leaf would not stay grounded long, for a new gust of wind sent the autumn flavored badge on its way again, and the former Zanguzen watched until it could no longer be tracked. She then tilted her gaze upward, and took a moment to marvel at the beauty and change in which her homeland was going through.

Sapphire and Emerald hues twinkled at the brilliance of the land that had taken the former Zanguzen in, and nurtured her the way a mother fosters a newborn. Krystal had experienced this autumn change before, and loved this time of year, where the colors of the earth became one with the trees. It was as if looking at an eternal sunset, its colors captured by the sentries as they dipped their leaves in the flavors of the sun and the earth. Even the very scent of the land had changed slightly, as Krystal allowed her mind to wonder and escape into the realm of peace. For only moments ago, her thoughts were centered on her ebon sister Ayasha, and her coming predicament. Krystal wondered if she still was the only one who knew about the life that Ayasha carried inside her womb. Many secrets were shared that night by both sisters of Ge-Rad, and promises exchanged. No matter the outcome, Krystal would always be by her sister’s side, this she assured Ayasha. For now all that could be done was to let time take its course, Ge-Rad is under the protection of Tor and Fenris, and if worse came to worse, she would still always have the former Zanguzen by her side.

In the heavens the clouds disbursed, allowing Fenris’ to lap at Ge-Radian soil with his tongue of warmth and splendor. Krystal could feel the sun god licking her ebony and ivory fur, bathing the lead scout in a soothing amount of heat that tickled and relaxed her senses, as well as leaving a healthy sheen on her coat. It was only until a fresh scent caught Krystal’s attention, did the lead scout return her mind from calm and tranquility. With reality restored and senses at the ready, she focused on the scent and soon began to track it. As Krystal ventured, more scents were becoming noticeable. Most she recognized, and one she did not. Curiosity moved the lead scout onward, no longer worried about a possible intruder since other members of the pack were all ready at the scene, but more curious to see what this gathering was all about. Krystal moved silently through the pack lands, as accustomed by her teachings and roll within the land as lead scout. She moved swiftly, and it was not long before the trail lead the Ge-Radian to the very heart of the pack lands. There, her eyes were greeted by the sight of three fae’s. As the scents suggested, two she recognized and one she did not.

Though Krystal knew of Sorcha and Kehré, she was afraid to admit that she really didn’t know much about the two fae’s personally. Sorcha was Draeg’s youngest daughter from his mate-ship with the deceased Cwen. She had seen Sorcha as a pup a few times, but doubted that Sorcha would remember that. And as fate would have it, Sorcha grew close to her elder sister Shayla. To this day, Krystal and Shayla have never seen eye to eye with the other, and the lead scout made a mental note to find Shayla when possible, and try to fix any differences and grudges that the gray femme may still hold towards her. Then there as Kehré, whom Krystal was present for her birth. Yet that day too was a difficult one. For whatever reason, Shakó hadn’t taken a liking to former Zanguzen. Although relations had drastically improved between the two Ge-Radians, Krystal has simply never gotten a chance to spend any time with his cubs. “I guess now would be the best time to change that.” Krystal thought, as she started to pad her way towards the group of three, tail swishing contently behind her in toe. Once Krystal was close enough so that she could be heard, she spoke. “Hello Sorcha, Kehré.” She spoke politely, and offered a bow to both respectively. “It’s good to see that both of you are well.” With that said, Krystal’s attention and gaze turned to the chocolate and caramel colored cub that stood tentatively beside and behind Sorcha. “Who’s your friend Sorcha?” Krystal asked with a curious gaze and pleasant smile that seemed to speak out, “Don’t be afraid, you are home now."

[Kehré]

Kehré’s ivory tail wagged faster as Sorcha addressed her, it felt good to interact with another varg her age. “Oh, I’ve been about,” Kehré shrugged at the question as if it was no importance. As a matter of fact, Kehré spent most of the past few months exploring Transylvania, and at periods come back to Ge-Rad for a few nights or so. She was always around- in a way. “Just exploring the countryside, really. You know me, never able to sit still in one place,” the fae laughed. “But- I don’t know where Kenjo is, really. He’s out there somewhere, enjoying his own space, I’m guessing,” Kehré responded to Sorcha’s last question, though with a little less enthusiasm.
Though she understood that sometimes everybody needed to explore their own lives, there would always be a peace missing in the ivory silver fae as long as her family was afar from her. Sure, she still had Draeg and her father, not to mention her cousin Kaemon, along with Ayasha and Krystal- but she felt like they were all, still very distant from her. Most of them she hadn’t seem since she was a pup, in fact, and Sorcha was included. Kehré felt that most of this was her fault, after all, she was the one who left in the first place, and was always doing her own thing. Could she really expect to come home to see her father, mother, and brother all together like some fairy tale? No, that would be absurd of her. “He’ll be back though, I’m sure of it,” Kehré concluded with a positive, mostly for herself to hear.

The attention was turned back upon the chocolate cub, whom Sorcha introduced as Mayta, her new “adoptive sister”. “Same to you, Mayta, sister of Sorcha” Kehré replied to the youngster as she dipped her own head in greeting, giving her a little thoughtful wink. “As you’re new pack mate, let me welcome you to Ge-Rad, I’m sure you’ll find it a very pleasant place,” the fae chimed happily, her blue green oculars shinning brightly as she licked her silver lips. Kehré then rested upon her own haunches, her composure quite relaxed. “So tell me, I’m curious- where did you two meet?”

Another sound of disturbed foliage made Kehré’s auds prickle and head turn, as she saw yet another form emerge to join the trio. This ebony and ivory fae was much older than all of them, her form slim yet decorated with elegance and wisdom. The green crescent-shaped mark on her right shoulder marked her as a Zanguzen, even though Kehré didn’t need to see it to recognize the fae to be Krystal. “Greeting, dear Krystal,” Kehré responded to the scout, bowing her head in a more respectful manner. “It’s nice to see you as well. Oh- and this is Mayta, but I’ll let Sorcha explain further,” Kehré went on anxiously, wagging her tail.
Yes indeed, it was nice to be in such company, especially on such a fine, cool day.

[Draeg]

The rich, warm fiery hues of autumn that manifest in the trees and sea of fallen leaves carpeting the ground painted the land like a fresco of color, heralding the end of an otherwise harrowing summer. Unfortunately its beauty and all its splendor was lost to Draeg. Since the discovery of his stepdaughter Ayasha’s pregnancy the amber dragga’s life had becoming one unending series of task after the other as he made preparations for the arrival of Ayasha’s upcoming litter. News of Ayasha’s pregnancy so soon after her return to Ge-Rad had taken him by surprise, even more so once after learning how far along she was in her term. With only a few days to prepare and no idea to guess when the pups would arrive Draeg had immediately set out making sure his stepdaughter had everything necessary to whelp a healthy litter, securing her bedding for her den and making sure she was comfortable. Between tending to the expecting mother and his regular duties he would often take the time to check on Kaemon, the father of Ayasha’s unborn pups as well as his future grandchildren, to see how he was coping. Draeg had no doubts that Kaemon would come around eventually, however at the moment it seemed as though he was still in shock from learning the news of his current situation. In retrospect Draeg supposed that he really couldn’t blame him, Kaemon was young and this was his litter which while not completely unexpected to anyone who had bothered to pay attention had been relatively unplanned.

About the only thing the Ge-Radian dragga hadn’t been able to provide for the expectant mother was a suitable meal. He had spent the past day and a half scouring all of Ge-Rad for anything that might sustain the ebon fae and her unborn pups, however all his efforts Draeg had been unable to find anything larger than a few field mice which could do little slate even his mounting hunger. The herds had been absent much of the year though whether it was simply because they late to arrive from their yearly trek or simply decided to settle in different staging grounds for the summer had yet to be determined, in either case Ge-Rad remained void of food with the exception of the occasional herla that strayed into their borders and the abundant supply of field mice that inhabited the meadows. With nothing to show for all his efforts Draeg was considering calling it a day and then setting out in the morning to see if he would have more luck hunting outside of Ge-Rad when his nose twitched at the passing breeze, bringing with it a variety of scents on the cool autumn air.

Having nothing better to do and knowing that it was probably worth investigating the amber varg paused a moment to take note of the breeze, changing course to follow the cadre of familiar scents towards the meadow. He felt his heart sink slightly as he approached the rolling landscape, noting with a pang of remorse the absent whiff of herla in the air and the all to clear lack of prey that should have been stretched out before him. Snout upturned the amber varg allowed himself one last experimental sniff, ears perking atop his auburn crown as a familiar aroma filled his nostrils. Waiting a moment longer Draeg found that he was quickly able to pick through the individual scents filling his nose, instantly identifying three of them as members of his own pack and fellow varg. Even as he struggled to identify the fourth and final scent Draeg found that he was unable to identify it as anything other than varg, one that was unaffiliated with his pack in anyway at that. Curious and more than a little concern to detect his daughter in such close vicinity to the unknown he exited the last sheltered remnants of the forest behind, loping deeper into the lush meadow. It wasn’t long before he found himself nearing the small party, study limbs carrying him swiftly across the rolling landscape to the very heart of Ge-Rad.

His first response upon spotting the feminine trio was immediate, amber orbs picking through the narrow collection of varg only to settle on the now grown form of his daughter. While still a pup Sorcha had grown a great deal in the recent months, resembling her mother a little more with each passing day. She had become old enough to wander around on her own, something she seemed to do increasingly between her lessons with him. And though Draeg made it no secret that he worried over her safety he never forbade her from exploring and testing her limits…within reason of course. Seeing that she was safe he let his gaze linger on her a moment longer before glancing at the other members of the small gathering. Draeg found that he was pleasantly surprised by the unexpected presence of Krehe’, having thought that ivory youth had departed Ge-Rad long ago in search of a better life with her brother. He made a mental note to inform Shako and Yelae of her returning, knowing that both varg would be thrilled to have their daughter back. Dipping his head respectfully he acknowledge Krystal with a polite bow, welcoming her presence with a slight smile before turning to greet Mayta. He had no recollection of the brown cub huddled against his daughter’s side and as such regarded her carefully, unsure what to make of the young visitor. “Well now, who might you be little one?”

[Sorcha]

A perpetual smile seems to have made itself at home on Sorcha's face, and she nods at Mayta's suggestion. "Hmm, that could definitely be fun, and would unquestionably be good practice. I just hope I'll never have to patch you up for real. Ah well, I suppose everyone gets scrapes and cuts, but I'll just have to try and make sure you don't get into trouble." Winking to show that she is somewhat teasing about the brown cub getting into trouble, Sorcha does truly mean that she hopes she will have to use her healing skills fairly rarely. Though she loves having those skills and the ability to help others, it is hard for her to see others in pain, and it is her wish to heal them as swiftly as possible and remove whatever pain she can whenever possible. Mayta's compliment is slightly surprising to the grey fae and she lowers her head faintly. "Oh, you have so much faith in me, darling Mayta. I only hope I will always live up to your expectations of my abilities. I have been training with daddy - he was the healer before he became Dragga, did you know that? So he's definitely a wonderful teacher. But I still have lots to learn. At least I love learning about it. It would be hard if I didn't and had to anyway, you know?"

The meeting with Kehré is joyful, as Sorcha has not seen her cubhood playmate in many months, and the grey fae is pleased to introduce her two friends to each other. She has played and romped around with both of them in her life and hopes they will get to know each other well. Nodding at the slightly older fae's response she smiles, completely understanding indeed. "Yes, I definitely do understand. I like to wander and explore too, but I come home fairly often, and I hadn't seen you in such a long time that I wondered if you'd ever come back. I am so very happy that you did. We had some fun times together when we were little. I was always so sad thinking that I might never see you again..." Though it was sad for her, her tone is cheerful now, considering there is no longer any need for sadness concerning such a topic. Nodding again as the conversation turns momentarily to Kenjo, Sorcha thinks about the vargs she has known that have come home after many months or even years. Just because it has been long since you've seen someone doesn't mean you never will again. Kehré is living proof of that, and Sorcha has always looked on the bright side of things.

Kehré is much more grown up that she was when Sorcha last saw her, and though this is not surprising (after all, Sorcha has grown up quite a bit herself), the grey fae is quite pleased with how she "turned out". Her greeting to Mayta is polite as well as kind, and the future healer is very happy with the fact that her old friend is one of the first vargs of Ge-Rad to meet Mayta. The brown cub has grown out of much of her fear of strangers, but still can be slightly timid at times - knowing this, it is wonderful that she would be met first by such a lovely and friendly fae. Glancing at her "sister" for a moment before answering, Sorcha smiles. "We actually met in the woods one night. It was chilly and somewhat scary, and we were grateful for each other's company. We just sorta went from there and became good friends, and when I found out that Mayta didn't have a home to go to, I started thinking about the possibility of her coming home with me and everything. It all worked out, and here we are."

A new scent comes to the grey future-healer's attention, and she tilts her head for a moment, wondering who this newcomer is. She recognizes the scent - it is unquestionably Ge-Rad... and a fae... but she can't put name or face to the scent. It is someone she has never met. Sorcha's musing end only moments later as a black and white fae comes into view. The fae's description matches that of a fae named Krystal Zanguzen. Sorcha has never met her, but has heard some about her from time to time. Smiling gently and looking with curiosity at the fae she is faintly surprised when the fae calls her by name. Dipping her head in acknowledgment she is grateful when Kehré affirms her assumption by greeting her as "Krystal". "Yes, this is Mayta. We met and after some playing and fishing and spending time together, we decided that it would be wonderful for her to come home with me..."

She would possibly have said more if she hadn't been interrupted by a familiar welcome mann comes into view. Sorcha's smile widens and she immediately begins to wag her tail enthusiastically, looking much like an overgrown pup. Glancing happily at Mayta as if to tell her who this is, Sorcha barks happily. "Daddy!" It is not the most dignified greeting, but it is what she has called him throughout her whole life, and just because she is a little older she has found no need to stop. Gently nuzzling Mayta as if to reassure her, Sorcha stays quiet, knowing that Draeg will want to hear the cub's answer for herself. Plus, he asked Mayta directly who she is, and though Sorcha brought her back to Ge-Rad, it isn't her place to answer in her stead. She will be happy to explain after Mayta's answer, but for now, she thinks it is best to simply encourage her friend to answer for herself.

[Mayta]

The cool breeze blew causing the bright, golden, orange and red leaves to dance in the wind; sending some of them dancing to the cool ground. It was a beautiful day indeed and the chocolate cub couldn’t be happier, she had a warm sensation in her body telling her she was finally home, home with her “sister” and meeting new friends, at least she hoped.

Still she sat back and let the two friends, Sorcha and Kehre reminisce and catch up on things while she sat there quietly, her tail slowly wagging back and forth sending the fallen leaves away to form a semi circle around her. As she sat there she wondered who else they might run into on this autumn day, she knew that they were in search of the amber Dragga on Ge-Rad, who Sorcha was lucky enough to refer to as daddy. The ivory fae then spoke directly to Mayta, “Thank you, you are very kind. I am sure I will love it here, as long as the Dragga will let me call this my home.” Even though the gray fae had assured her that she had nothing to worry about, Mayta’s golden orbs were still full of worry and concern that she would still be homeless after this adventure.

Raising her muzzle to darkening sky, her small delicate nose twitched back and forth, and many different scents filled her senses. She opened her emerald speckled orbs, Fenris was setting fast and soon mighty Tor would take over, watching over them for the night. Bringing her muzzle back down, to reality, she noticed another fae was approaching them. This time, she was black and ivory and had beautiful bright bi-hued orbs that were somewhat mesmerizing to the young fae. Immediately she dropped her stare, and waited to be introduced and spoken to once again. As both Kehre and Sorcha introduced her she looked up with a small smile across her maw, “Hi Krystal, it is also a pleasure to meet you. I hope that you will join us for a little while.” As she softly spoke she noticed an interesting mark on the ebon and ivory fae, a crecent moon. She pondered for a moment of what it could be, and made a mental note to ask her about it if their paths ever crossed again one on one; now was not the time to ask such questions. Krystal seemed very kind and welcoming, just as Kehre and Sorcha had been to her when first meeting them. If these three were what she would hopefully call her family in the future, she knew she had found the right place, that this was where she belonged.

The day had already been so overwhelming and tiring for the chocolate and tan cub, she had traveled to these great lands of Ge-Rad and met two wonderful new friends. A yawn suddenly came across her maw; she shook her head back and forth trying to fight the sleepiness back. She was determined she would not rest until she found the Dragga. No sooner did the thought cross her mind, did he appear. First Sorcha screamed with excitement to greet the mann and a deep voice entered her large auds and she perked to attention, and then lowered her auds as she looked up at the noble amber Dragga before her. Mayta felt a warm nuzzle from her “sister” as if she was trying to tell her it would be okay. She rose slowly to her paw, her heart was racing and her legs began to tremble. She was nervous and scared with her tail lowered waging slightly back and forth between her legs, she bowed her head in respect, “My name is Mayta. I met your wonderful daughter Sorcha a moon or so back. She and I have become very close and she has been a great help to me. I have no family, and we were hoping that you would allow me to call this pack my family.” Her voice was shaky and her head was still lowered, she looked up at the Dragga, and then at Sorcha hoping for reassurance that she was going to be okay and she was there like always, making sure she knew that Mayta wasn’t alone.

[Krystal Zanguzen]

The heavens were beginning to blend into a sea of orange and red hues that stretched on into the horizon and beyond. Fenris’ light was steadily diminishing, but there would still be some day light left before Tor’s hour could begin. Krystal felt a sense of tranquility envelop her form, as she stood beside her fellow pack mates. Life was continuing onward as always, and the journey in which the former Zanguzen had partaken in was nothing more than a memory now that served to remind the lead scout of the trials of solitary life. Here in Ge-Rad the bi-hued fae was happiest, beside her friends and family who she loved dearly. This too included fellow Ge-Radians in which Krystal hadn’t formed the tightest of bonds and those whom she had not gotten to know very well. Kehré’s and Sorcha were among those Varg, but that would soon change hopefully. “Mayta is it?” Krystal repeated aloud as both Kehré and Sorcha greeted the lead scout. The two toned Ge-Radian kept her sapphire and emerald gaze on the chocolate colored cub. She seemed nervous and a bit fearful to Krystal, but that was to be expected. As wonderful a place as Ge-Rad is, this was still foreign land to a young cub.

But soon Mayta spoke; her words held eloquence that was much too ripen for a cub, which intrigued the former Zanguzen. Perhaps Mayta is just naturally polite, or maybe Sorcha’s influence has all ready weaved a tight knot around the mannerisms of her adopted sister. Whichever the case may be, Krystal was quite pleasantly surprised at how well mannered the chocolate cub displayed herself to be. With a pleasant smile and a gentle swish of her ebon banner the lead scout spoke with a soft and comforting tone. “It’s nice to meet you too Mayta. I hope you find the land of Ge-Rad to your liking. I’m sure our Dragga would be very intrigued to meet you as well.” No sooner had Krystal mentioned the Ge-Radian Dragga did his form appear in the distance, growing closer with each stride that carried the noble amber male forward. His scent still as strong with the smell of Ge-Rad as ever, though he seemed to look more aged than usual or so Krystal assumed. She returned his bow with one of her own, and took a seat to watch the events unfold before her.

Krystal listened attentively, as Sorcha recounted the situation. Such explained the reason why Mayta stuck so closely by the Dragga’s daughter’s side. But now was the time for the little one to stand on her own paws and speak her own speech to the amber male. The stage was set, and the wind died down. The land itself was quiet, as if the very trees wished to listen to the young cub speak. And so the wolves of Ge-Rad indeed listen to little Mayta speak, as she requested the privilege to call Draeg’s family her own. The scene that played out before the former Zanguzen’s kaleidoscope orbs was a bit nostalgic, for Krystal could remember the very winter in which she had done the same. Only instead, Krystal was lost in a growing snow storm, and Draeg had appeared like a beacon of light in the distance to guide the fae to safety and inevitably, a permanent home amongst his fellow Ge-Radians. Krystal knew what the Dragga’s most probable answer would be, but still there were challenges to be met. Ge-Rad was suffering a shortage of food, and with the coming of Ayasha and Kaemon’s litter, would Draeg take on another muzzle to feed? Silently Krystal watched and waited, curious to see how this event would play itself out.