And from the darkness... {Private} -- {{CLOSED}}

[Varloc]

ooc: I realize that I've made a few mistakes about what season it is and such---Well, I dunno if I actually made any references to what season it was, but I definately didn't put in there that it was winter. I totally missed the lil alert on the side bar saying "Winter". I'll try and spruce it up tomorrow.

Also, this is a private thread for Kai and myself. ;D Yay. My first rp.


It was one of those gorges which seem to have been plowed through the mountains with some vast mechanical instrument that cuts with equal ease through hard and soft. Granite had yielded like butter to the edge of that imagined tool. Looking up, it was easy to see the steep and polished cliffs rising on either side, beyond the climbing of any beast. At the top, there was an occasional fringing of trees, which leaned over the gorge as through peering curiously down into its depths.

Just around one of the corners of the canyon, there was what many in the West call a “devils slide”—a steep-sided heap of debris which was stacked up against the side wall of a valley or flat and ran to the very top of the cliff, almost two hundred feet above. Out of the peaceful silence, a cry of a wolf went up, echoing through the empty canyon. It was a wolf on a blood trail. Above the canyon, on the very edge, a red deer ran, as through in the sky with a large wolf in pursuit. They were so close to the edge of the precipices that the blue of the sky outlined their straining bodies.

Ordinarily, a red deer could easily out fun the fastest wolf that ever walked on pads, but this stag had been laboring hard for a long time and was nearly spent. And the wolf ran as though it knew that the staggering strides of the deer must stop at any moment. A red rag of lolling tongue whipped from the side of the lobo’s mouth and if close enough, you could easily see the green bright flame of the blood lust in the eyes of the monster.

Suddenly, the deer took things into its own charge. It had come to the end of its strength, and whirling, it stood at bay with head down, with hind legs sprawled wide, the quarters sinking towards the ground. It was the perfect picture of desperate and hopeless courage as it wheeled. The grey wolf checked himself so abruptly that he skidded a bit on braced legs, and that was where chance took hand for the red deer. For the wolf, as it skidded, slued around to the side and slid off onto the top of that devils slide.

It was a horrible sight to see, for it was a grim death that the male was falling towards. Nothing in the world could keep him from crashing down that crumbling, sharp-angled gravel heap into the waters of the river that flowed through the area. The waters of the river offered little assurance of survival. It had rained heavily the night before and the river gorged and the waters were racing like galloping horses towards the dangerous rapids just down the river. The grey wolf was using brains worth of a king of his kind. Instead of turning and trying vainly to claw his way back up the treacherous slope, and thereby loosening under her feet a constantly increasing flood of almost liquid gravel, the wolf went down like a mountain sheep, head first, with braced legs.

Every instance that there was a possibility of solid ground, the wolf leapt there. His sliding began to slow, but not enough to keep him from tumbling head-long into the waters. It was an amazing sight to see, the wolf running with the tumbling gravel for the river. As he gained the last inches of soil and unable to stop himself, the hunter hurled himself far out into the air. It was a glorious leap. It was like a javelin cast from the shore. The brave beast cleared the speed of the central current and landed with a splash into the slack of water on the farther side.

The instant the male hit firm ground; he sprang from the water and paused to send out a sparkling cloud of spray as he shook the water from his coat. He turned a head and cast an exasperated glance towards the ridge of the cliff. The red deer lingered there, as though waiting to see the destruction of its enemy. Seeing that the grey wolf stepped clear of the waters, it snorted, stomped its hoof and sprang away. The wolf sat for some time in the sunlight, emerald eyes shining interested towards the cliff ridge.

With a shake of his head, he finally rose and gazed towards the expanding meadow. In the distance, his sharp eyes picked up on movement, but nothing that seemed to be unsettling. Now that the sun had began to dry his fur, dark grey tones began to show through, starting from his underside, which was a light silvery white, moving up to his back where it eventually melted into black. He was ideally fitted for melting into the backgrounds of rocks and the darkness of the forest and shadows.

This creature was one that lived the life of loner, well, somewhat. It was just as rugged and full of labor and effort as the life in a pack, plus some. All the spare flesh was worked away from his body. It was easy to see, as he rose and turned towards the open meadow, the ardent pull of the network of muscles beneath the glossy pelt. He appeared to be built for the endurance of long running. His long legs where lean, but powerfully built to give force for locomotion. And set on top of this mechanism of grace and speed and endurance, there were the shoulders, nicely muscled for unmatched power.

He moved with ease through the open, his dark eyes flashing back and forth constantly, appearing to linger long enough to satisfy him, but not long enough to see anything. But it was a skill he had learned and perfected. A lesson his father had taught him from his very first time at the packs Meeting Place. To glance quickly and see everything. He could see the small mouse scurry away from the approaching hunter, he could see the bird, sitting in one of the trees along the edge of the meadow, eyeing him suspiciously as he passed by. True, his hunt had been a failure, but there would be other times. The red deer stag had been growing weak and it was this that had drawn the Dragga to the animal.

The large male ate up the distance in long, easy flowing strides, his head held low and swinging back and forth gently to pick up scents that might be important to him. He found himself nearing a tree line, his eyes narrowing slightly and a soft growl rumbling forth from his jaws. He hesitated only a moment before pushing on through the trees, but something else drew his attention. He was near a pack boarder, something he wished not to cross. He stopped, lowering his muzzle to the ground and inhaled deeply. He was beyond their boarder and thus, did not need to worry himself over asking permission. Feeling relaxed once again, he moved on, weaving his way around trees and shrubs until he finally broke through to the open flat of the valley.

He felt as though he could see for miles, his dark eyes twinkling with delight. He was new to this area, having traveled from far away and found the beauty of the place. It was relaxing and that’s just what the male needed.

[Kai]

A gentle breeze rolled through the land of Koran, bringing with it a slight chill. It was a welcome gesture from the winter season, considering the icy grip that had been grasping the forest so tightly. It was said in many of the old legends that Wolfbane himself controlled the frigid season, bringing frost and death to the land with a single swipe of his claws. Some winters had been absolutely devastating, though this one seemed tame in comparison.

The territory of the valley-dwelling pack was gorgeous this time of year. While the height of the nearby river was sure to rise, flooding never posed much of a threat to the pack, for the dens were situated on higher, more stable ground. A serene blanket of white was spread out across the ground, perfect and untouched, save for those few trails around the dens where pack members had ventured out of the warmth for the occasional hunt. A separate trail circled around the border of Koran, the large tracks belonging to more than just a noble sentry.

Despite his promotion to Beta some moons ago, Kai still thought of it as his duty to patrol the territory and stand guard at the border. Trust in Koran's scouts was not the issue, rather, it did his legs more good to roam than laying dormant in a den. He had always been a wanderer, a habit he had picked up form his late godfather, Zhentee. The noble Dragga had been the one to first introduce Kai to the land of Koran, and the ebon male still found much wisdom in his teachings. As a cub, Kai remembered the monumental elder having to ability to turn even the most menial of tasks into products of his sagacity and good will. Such visions of grandiose had been tainted, no doubt, by Kai's young eyes and eager imagination, though even looking back as an adult it was clear that he had been fortunate indeed to have had a caretaker as benevolent and renowned as Zhentee had been.

Shaking the thoughts from his mind, it was no surprise that his wandering mind had caused his paws to do that same. He no longer recognized his surroundings as belonging to Koran, though he had involuntarily followed the river that lay nestled in the center of the valley. His standpoint allowed him to overlook the meadow that lay just outside of the pack land; just beyond towered crags of stone and abandoned lands to which he had never ventured. The morning air was quiet and still, and for a moment the Beta was content to simply stand and listen, taking in his surroundings to the fullest extent. For a moment he closed his eyes, surrendering one sense to lend intensity to another. He could hear the constant roar of the river, the sheer power surging in the current sent a rumble through the ground. Drops of snow plummeting from nearby branches, forming holes that disrupted the perfection of the blanch ground cover. Tranquility engulfed him as he breathed in the crisp air rolling in from the mountains, letting the air escape from his kungs as swirling tendrils of steam, and for a moment he felt more connected to the land than his whirring mind had allowed in recent times. The cool breeze ruffling his hackles reminded him of his youth, roaming with childhood friends without responsibility or obligation to anyone but themselves. The life of a Kerl had been pleasant, and for some if offered all that was required for true happiness, though the life he had found with his pack still tugged at him; an obligation that was somehow fulfilling in itself.

An unexpected voice caught him off-guard, causing his eyes to bolt open in a brilliant flash of amber. The sound had been low, a growl perhaps unintended for any ears besides the creature that had uttered it. The crunching of snow alerted the Beta to the stranger's approach, and he felt his hackles bristle with apprehension. His own dark lips curled back to reveal glistening fangs; if this soul bore ill intentions, he would allow him to step no closer to the home he lived to protect. Following in pursuit of the crunching snow, the lithe yet well-muscled mann's approach was not stealthy, for speed and not surprise was his goal. It only took a few steps before he could see the obscure form of the aggressor behind a veil of tall grass. "Show yourself and voice clear your name and loyalties. What business have you so close to the border of Koran?" His deep voice was clear and rich, and though he knew not who he was speaking to, he tried to keep his voice as void of hostility as he could while still sounding keen. His black banner arched characteristically over his back in a show of dominance to alert the would-be trespasser of his status. While an uneasy tension quickly filled the air, he remained patient and on-guard as he awaited a prompt response from the stranger.

[Varloc]

With the breeze came tantalizing scents of other wildlife, things that made the handsome male’s jaws water. Hunger gnawed at his belly, but it had not yet reached the point to where it was aggravating. He would find other game to satisfy his hunger and then, with a fully belly, would relax comfortably somewhere for the evening. That was his plan at least, though things were never for certain, something that he had learned long ago. He had planned, while still in the comfort and security of his family pack that he would one day take over his father’s rule and have a family of his own with a big litter of pups and a beautiful Drappa at his side. That dream, however, was quickly smashed when he was so rudely forced from his family one evening.

As he moved on valley, paws crushing softly on the snow, he couldn’t help but feel the desire to cross over the border into the pack’s land, to ask acceptance into their family and once again feel the comforts of a pack. However, he shoved the thought from his mind with a quick shake of his head and a soft grunt. Varloc had not taken the time to admire the beauty of the place until that very moment. He paused, letting his dark eyes sweep over the great flat with wonder. It seemed that each place he traveled to had its own unique beauty and he found that rather alluring. There was something about this place that stirred a great unease in the large male; as though something were watching him, as though something dark was roaming this beautiful place. But wasn’t that just like nature? Beauty usually hid something dangerous. Did a rose not have thorns? Does an eagle not have sharp talons? Does a wolf not hunt?

For a moment, the dark male was lost in these thoughts, musing at how cruel and unexpected nature could really be, but he was suddenly stirred from the thoughts with a jolt. He, too, had caught the sound of another approaching. He had nothing to fear, at least for the moment, because he was not yet on pack territory. Yet why was the wolf demanding anything of him? Varloc toyed with the idea of simply turning the other direction and carrying on, ignoring the other completely, but he was in no mood for a tussle. His own tail lifted, his ears coming forwards and his expression becoming one of mild disinterest. “Why I mean no trouble at all, friend. I have no intention on crossing over into your home. I am merely passing through…” His voice was soft, calm and almost musical, and had a rather soothing quality to it. The tone of voice could not be attributed to a monster, to anything evil. It could only be the voice of good. Varloc paused for a moment and took a step closer that he could better see the other male. He took in the fact that he held a dominant posture, no doubt, because he well deserved it in his pack.

“The name is Varloc and I have traveled from a far and I am a stranger to this part of the earth.” He again hesitated, eyes narrowing. “And if this is anything like other packs, then I do believe that I am not in the wrong here. I am not on your land.” His tail fell and his ears settled once again, into a relaxed position. “I am no enemy, not unless you wish me to be.” Varloc shifted, so that he could gaze passed the male in the direction he had traveled. He found that his vision was obscured by the tall grass and was somewhat irritated that he could not find out if there were others with him. If this was an ambush, then he was not in a good position for a defense. Suddenly, the relaxed male was not so relaxed. Was this a set up? Had they been aware of his approach before he had made it here? But why? He had done nothing wrong. He had not crossed into anyone’s home land. He had been careful of that. For the moment, the male could only wait and see.

[Kai]

Not the best :(, but I hope you can work with it!

Much to his surprise, the tension was broken by a soft voice that yielded to the authority in his own. The stranger, whoever he was, seemed unruffled by Kai's hostile words, and to tell the truth, the ebon male couldn't have been more thankful. Releasing an audible sigh of relief, the mann lowered his tail to a more casual position, feeling no need to display dominance to a Varg that meant no harm and was not encroaching on his territory. "My apologies," he allowed his rich voice to flow smoothly, void now of any gruffness that had been present a moment before. Once the stranger was past the shroud of tall grass and in plain sight, the Beta offered an unorthodox dip of his head, as if to apologize for his snap-judgment. Upon raising his head once more, he allowed his amber eyes to rove over the frame of the gray mann. His build was sturdy, with well-toned muscles beneath his shaded fur. His bulk was not excessive, more the lean frame of an athlete whose body had been formed through endurance and skill. He seemed Kai's equal in size and stature, and luckily, also held something of his reserved nature.

"The lands of Koran lay mere footfalls from this meadow, my apologies if I startled you. My paws have a habit of wandering with my mind; I did not expect to come this far, nor encounter company." His tone was contrite, his apology sincere. He felt silly for having made such an assumption, very rarely was he ever so harsh upon first encounters, he much preferred to grant the benefit of the doubt to others whenever possible. Still, if there was any chance of harm falling unto his family, he would much rather come off as hostile by mistake than too timid at the wrong time. "Greetings, Varloc," he said with another slight dip of his head. "Kai is my name, Beta and warrior of the nearby Koran pack." He always felt strange introducing himself as such- what use would a wandering Kerl have for such trifles? Still,he thought to include them whenever possible, as though it might somehow explain his protective behavior better than his apology. "True, you have not trespassed, you have done no wrong, though if you have any experience with pack life, you'll know that it's usually better to catch a threat early, even if it means making a few mistakes." He offered a light-hearted grin to accompany his words, feeling more comfortable now that all misunderstandings had been cleared.

For a moment his ochre eyes caught a glimpse of ruddy brown counterparts. It was an unusual color, he noted, for he couldn't recall ever meeting a Varg with such dark hues, though they complimented the brute's coat handsomely. "I wish for no such thing, I would be far more grateful to call you a friend." Another smile graced his lips, the tips of his fangs showing beneath his dark lips. He sensed a bit of tension returning in the air, a feeling that was confirmed by the gray male's suspicious expression. In attempt to lighten the atmosphere, he fell back on his haunches to a more relaxed position, hopefully assuring the male that no threat awaited him. "I'm curious, Varloc, where it is that you came from, if you wouldn't mind sharing." He really doubted that a mann of such composure could possible be a spy for the malicious packs of the north. Still, one could never be too careful- and aside from checking his story, Kai felt a genuine curiosity flaring up for this mann's story.

[Varloc]

For a moment, the male stood in silence, the wind, as it stirred once more and gave the meadow an appearance of water; the dry, bland grass rolling softly in the breeze, also managed to work its icy fingers through his thick winter coat and bite at his skin. He suddenly longed for the summer, although, during those hot and rather sluggish months, he cursed the heat and humidity, pleading for the cooler seasons to come. It suddenly hit him that no matter the season, he always found something wrong with it. The summer was far too hot. The fall had far too many dead things; the winter was to cold and spring… Well, he actually couldn’t find anything wrong with spring, other then females were having their young and he… went yet another year, alone.

He was drawn back suddenly, to reality when the male spoke his apology, an understand smiling tugging at his muzzle as he listened. He did know of packs and did understand the duties and stress that guarding such a family. You could never be too careful. A mishap could tear all you’ve worked for apart and leave you broken and helpless, forced to wander alone and wonder why it couldn’t have been you instead of them. A pack that was not far from the very meadow he had wandered into? He lifted his dark eyes from the strange male before him to stare passed him in the distance, as if trying to spot others.

Varloc felt a sudden pain in his chest, something he had come to be familiar with. The pain would come when he caught scent of others, a reminded to him that the life of a loner was not for him. It was a pain telling him that his kind was not meant to be alone, to be a solitary animal. His thoughtful gaze shifted again, back to the male before him as he introduced himself. So he was face to face with a pack member of great status. He dipped his head, nose almost touching the cold earth in great and honest respect. “I hold nothing against you. I know the stress that comes with protecting a pack. The one time you let something slip would be the time everything would go wrong.”

He felt at ease as he watched Kai relax his own posture, seemingly trusting that he, himself, meant no trouble. Varloc wanted to chuckle. Trouble? That was far from his mind. He was growing older and fighting was drifting further from his mind each day. True, in his younger years, he would have jumped through hoops for a good fight, but what young male wouldn’t? Sparring with others or even a real, old fashion fight was an easy way to impress a young she-wolf. That would show her that you were more then capable of protecting a family, but Varloc was always careful to also show her his more sensitive side, to prove to her that he wasn’t just some brute. Kai’s words once again pulled Varloc from his memories and he suddenly felt uncomfortable. Where was he from? Varloc hardly knew himself. He had traveled for so long and so far, that his birth home seemed a distant memory; a mere dream.

”Where am I from…” he mused softly, a thoughtful distant look slipping into his dark, muddy eyes. ”I’m from a far off land, far beyond the boundaries of this place.. Its been so long since I’ve been to my birth land, that its hard to remember. It however, was much like here. The seasons weren’t very different and wolves roamed all over. You were hard pressed to find time alone.” he offered a gentle smile, his tail swaying once behind him. “I left home and I have been wandering since and now I have found myself here..” He drifted off, purposely leaving out details of his past. That was something that stirred painful memories in him and something he would rather avoid, unless a true need to explain it arose. “I didn’t mean to drift so close to your home. I was aware I was coming close to the territory line, but I had no intention on entering. I was merely going to skirt around it.” He explained, though now having come in contact with another, felt that skirting around the place would be a mistake he would regret. Something called to him. Something in his mind told him it was time to stop and settle down; to find a place he could call home until the end of his days. He hated the thought of dying alone out in the middle of some unknown area, left to what pathetic scavengers happened by and decided he was good enough to make a meal out of.


ooc: I totally didn’t see that you had posted. XD I’m so sorry.

[Kai]

Don't worry about it! Seriously. I do apologize though, for the length of this post :[ Hopefully it'll serve to move things along.

Much to his surprise, the male returned his respectful gesture with a sweeping bow of his own. The male was full of surprises, for it wasn't often that Kerl were so respectful, nor social with pack Varg. It was obvious to Kai that he was either an anomaly, an exception to the rule, or the more reasonable case- that he had been part of a functioning pack before heading out on his own. A smile graced the ebon male's features at Varloc's understanding. He had spoken it perfectly, for once Kai had heard the amount of his own stresses spoken by another; a great feeling of relief washed over him. This male seemed to understand a great deal. "That's exactly it," he said somewhat surprised, though thankful none the less. "No need to apologize, I shouldn't have snapped at you for merely passing by. This land is mine as much as yours, no need to get bristled hackles over unclaimed territory." So the argument was resolved as easily as that, with another kind smile the quarrel had been laid to rest.

Kai sat patiently as he listened to Varloc speak. His tone was soft and gentle, like the rest of the mann's behavior, and he held no spite or anger in his voice. He seemed like a good fellow, genuine and kind-hearted, though there was something about his expression and rugged frame that told of pain. His dark eyes were muddled with thoughts and concerns that Kai could not decipher, though it bothered him that such a seemingly decent character was left to wander alone, when it seemed that he pined for something more. A frown formed on his slender muzzle at the thought. "You understand pack life more than I would have expected. Why, then, is it that you wander alone?" Immediately after speaking his question, he regretted having opened his mouth. What if this male's past was wrought with pain and loss as his sullen looks implied? Silently he sat, avoiding the male's gaze for fear it would turn furious. Instead he focused on his tail tapping lightly on the ground, waiting to see if an explanation would unfold.

[Varloc]

The dark male had surprised Varloc. So easy it was to resolve a situation and fall into friendly conversation. It’s the way that wolves should all behave, Varloc thought, lifting his eyes for a moment towards the sky. It would make things so much easier. A passing wolf wouldn’t have to fear for their lives when coming close to a pack home. He had had his own problems with such things. Especially with younger males, hot on the color for a good fight and to prove to their lovely she-wolf they were something. In the chill of the wind, Varloc could feel the pain of old wounds, long since healed, but never truly gone. They were bitter memories that Varloc had not forgotten. He had defended himself against their attacks, though it wasn’t something he was proud of. He had killed a youngster, who, refused to back down, even though he was on the losing end of the battle. It had left Varloc sick for days, thinking of that young male, fresh into adulthood and already food for the scavengers.

The smokey hued male was stirred from his thoughts when Kai spoke and for a moment, Varloc studied the male before him. He noticed that, despite his position in his pack, he did not meet his gaze. Varloc was impressed. This male was not full of himself. He knew his position and he knew how to handle himself accordingly. He was concerned about stirring up his anger. It was a common behavior among wolves, no matter what part of the world they were from. ”Very well…” He murmured softly, lowering his eyes thoughtfully to the ground so that he could study his paws then allowed his eyes to close as yet again, he drifted off into thought.

Varloc sprang forwards, the rain coming down harder now, making it almost impossible to see and navigate through the woods that he had come to learn to swell, but he had made it. That’s all he needed to do. Make it back to the den and make sure the pack was tucked comfortably inside away from the biting cold rain. At the entrance, he gave himself a good shake, spraying droplets of water everywhere, leaving him looking like some soaked rat. Dark eyes sparkled as he neared his mate. She had settled herself in the back of the den, separate from the others. She was still mourning the death of their only pup, but he knew that with time, she would grow strong once again. ”My darling… I’m back…” he whispered, stepping forwards to lick her muzzle. What he felt made his blood go cold and his legs shake. Hecate was cold and stiff, no doubt having lost her battle against the illness that had taken their pup from them. ”…No…”

Varloc started, his eyes snapping open and stared at the dark male before him. He had done it again, drifted off into his own thoughts and forgetting what he had been suppose to be doing. I’m sorry..” He stammered, clearing his throat. “I too, had a family and a pack… My parents where the leader of a small pack far from here, across the mountains. It was made up mostly of family, with the exception of one kerl that had been passing through.” He paused, glancing again towards the sky as though looking for guidance. I grew up, with no real problems. By my first year, my parents were already having another litter and a new female had joined our pack. The female, a stunning white female… Her name was Hecate..” The smokey male paused, attempting to keep the pain from entering his voice. Again he cleared his throat and continued. “We became good friends and slowly another year went by. My parents were growing older and their health was failing and so, months letter, they offered me the position of leader. They wanted to live out the rest of their lives in ease. So I took my father’s spot and asked Hecate to stand by my side. When we grew comfortable with our positions, we started work on a family of our own and that next spring, we had a son.” Varloc smiled softly, his eyes taking on a distant look as the memories came flooding back. “He was so wonderful. So full of life and spunk. Life was perfect. But several months later, our son, Eros, grew very ill. He was far too small… so frail..He didn’t make it a week.” Varloc growled softly, scraping one paw against the snow in grief and anger. It was all he could do to keep from howling. “Hecate and I were so heartbroken, but she took it of course, the hardest. The grief was so much for her and she too, grew very ill. I was returning from a failed hunt and the rain was pouring..The pack was in the den and I discovered that she had died.” It appeared the story came freely from Varloc, but it was this calm behavior that helped Varloc keep his emotions in check. He had to force himself to remain calm, for his own good. “I was at a loss for what to do and I felt no desire to continue to lead the pack, so I stepped down. A young male stepped up to take the place. He had joined us at the beginning of my reign. Unfortunately, he wasn’t too keen on me and had me cast out from my own pack. I felt responsible for the loss of my family, as though maybe I could have done something about it. But I had a dream one night, after I had been cast out from the pack. I was engulfed in flames, but I didn’t feel any heat or pain. Then from the flames, stepped another wolf. Far bigger then I have ever seen. He was magnificent looking, like the fire itself. I believe it was Zostar He spoke to me. He told me I had done no wrong and that what had happened was far out of my reach. That I needed to continue on with my life, keeping my families memory with me. So that’s what I did and I’ve been wandering ever since.”

Varloc heaved a sigh, glad to have it finally over. It had been a long time since he had actually thought about all the past, let alone admit it. He shifted slightly, uncomfortable with the position he had been sitting in so long. He wanted to get up and stretch, but feared it would be considered rude to get up and move about. So instead, he waited patiently, dark thoughtful eyes lingering only for a moment on Kai, before shifting to something else. It was out of respect that his gaze did not dwell on the male before him.



ooc: No worries! D: You're post was excellent and it gave me a lot to work with.

[Kai]

To his relief, his question had not come at a heavy price. The voice that met Kai's ears was as tame as it had been previously, or perhaps even a bit softer. Raising his amber eyes once more to meet the face of the Kerl, he was surprised to see that the gray mann's eyes had also dropped to the ground. The gesture was not one of shyness or worry, as his own had been. Instead, the action seemed to be one of pain. He couldn't help but think he had made a mistake in asking about this male's past. He had not intended for th mann to relive his turmoil simply to satisfy Kai's curiosity. Loss was not a good topic for small talk and the Beta could see at once that he should have either chosen a different topic or headed back to Koran instead of prolonging the conversation. Still, if Varloc was willing to share, as he seemed to be, then Kai was more than happy to listen.

For a moment, the male had seemed lulled into a quiet meditation by his memories. Eyes closed, he was statuesque, unmoving in his recollection. He looked as though he was asleep on his paws, and Kai was becoming anxious, wondering when it was that the tale would begin. Catching him off-guard, he was surprised when the dark eyes of the stranger shot open unexpectedly to stare at his frame. The Beta's own eyes were wide with surprise and anticipation, wondering just what had been whirring through Varloc's mind. He offered a small nod at Varloc's apology and shifting the position of his paws, he made himself comfortable and remained quiet through the duration of the tale.

Already Kai was picking out similarities and differences between he and the gray mann. After all, it was hard not to relate what one could to another's experiences while a story was unfolding. Kai had not always belonged to Koran, he understood the pain that came with the loss of true family. Perhaps this was the source of strife in the mann before him. As his words revealed, he had not always been a Kerl. Much of his story sounded natural, "average", as he had said. He spoke of family, forging new ties, and love... This caused the ebon Koranian to reflect back on his current status. he was single, had never had a mate, though he had taken quite an interest in a kindhearted scout from the neighboring pack of GeRad. They had shared only enough time to qualify as friends, though he found that she crossed his mind from time to time. Varloc spoke of shifts in power, a natural occurrence when trustworthy pups come of age, and of his flourishing pack, along with a son of his own. Kai found himself mirroring the gray Varg's smile, though somehow he knew that inside he was preparing himself to reveal something devastating. His ears flattened as the news was given that Varloc's son and mate had both been taken from him prematurely. He remembered back to his own puphood, how he had been robbed of his entire family. He had had time to dwell on it since then, as this mann obviously had, though no amount of time that passed could erase the deep scar that such loss carved upon one's heart. Kai sat motionless, even his breathing seemed to have stopped, his eyes remained closed out of respect until the male mentioned something that caught him off-guard. His amber eyes flashed open in an instant at the acknowledgment of the fiery god, Zostar. The Koranian knew very little about the outlandish deity, for worshipers of the flame lord resided in the south. Based on Varloc's dream, if Zostar had truly visited him, Kai found that he had to agree with the god. " I am incredibly sorry for your loss, though I know that apologies do nothing to soothe such searing wounds. You say Zostar visited you in your dream? I believe I have heard something of the sort occurring before. It was wise to listen to Him, they are valuable words to keep close."

Sensing Varloc's uneasiness, Kai felt privileged to be privy to such information. Though he knew not what purpose it would serve, he appreciated the effort put forth by the gray man none the less. Noting the male's restlessness, he rose to his feet, stretching each foreleg out before him to relieve his stiff muscles. "It's a shame you still walk alone after all this time," he said sadly, voicing his thoughts out loud. "Your throat must be dry from such a long tale. Please, allow me to show you my home. Koran has many streams to alleviate such a bother. I assure you, you are quite welcome, providing such an invitation does not perturb you?" He smiled kindly in the hope that the male would humbly accept the invitation, for Kai was not yet ready to be rid of his respectable company.

[Varloc]

ooc: Sorry this is short. O:

At Kai’s condolences, the dark male offered a meek smile, dark eyes growing more thoughtful, if that was even possible. Words could do nothing to bring back those you loved nor could it sooth the pain and wounds that came with such a loss, however, he was grateful for them, knowing the male meant them sincerely. They weren’t just empty words that any might say upon hearing his rather depressing story. He had heard of others like his own, though, the wolves either fell into a great depression or gave up on their lives. To Varloc, such behavior was to be considered an insult to the deceased. Wolves weren’t made to behave in such a manner. One could hope and dream and pray, but that would do nothing to restore what they had lost.

“I’m grateful for your words…” He replied softly. ”But you need not worry yourself over such a story. It was long ago and I will admit, the wound is still fresh on my heart, but I’m very capable of going on with my life, just as my love would have wished it so.” Varloc paused, his expression lightening slightly as Kai spoke of Zostar and gave a brief nod. ”I feel ashamed to admit that I had not been in full belief of the Lords, but with the dream came belief. I felt a sense of ease after he came to me in my dream and it’s because of that, that I’ve been able to keep going.

At Kai’s invitation, Varloc gave a slight nod, rising himself and allowing his front legs to slide forwards in the snow, back arching in a well needed stretch. “I would be honored to step foot into your home. I do hope that your Leaders don’t find my arrival a nuisance. I state right now, that I have no ill intentions towards you or your family. Though I suppose, anyone would say that, ill will intended or not.” His ears had pulled back as he pondered over his own words, wondering now, if he should take the risk of meeting the Leaders. He of course, wouldn’t blame them for any of their actions. They had the right to be suspicious of any newcomers and withheld the right to deal with him as they saw fit. Though, he wouldn’t enjoy it very much, he would harbor no hard feelings for it. Deciding to give it a chance, he once again turned his dark eyes towards Kai, waiting for him to lead the way. It would appear a bit awkward for him to start off towards a place he without a doubt, probably didn’t belong in. “After you, dear sir. I would rather not risk running head long into any of your pack mates in fear that they might not find my presence acceptable as you have.”

[Kai]

He was relieved to see that Varloc accepted his sympathy rather than checking him for offering pity. If the gray male resented the gesture, he showed no signs of it, only offering a small smile at the Beta's words. To Varloc's mention of his mate, Kai remained silent once more, giving only a slight bow of his head to show that he understood. He saw no use in voicing constant understanding, for wolves that did so ironically came off as comprehending very little. Making such an impression so shortly after introducing himself was not wise, he mused, and it would say very little of his character. No, it was better to know when to remain silent, and when to say something of importance.

A light smile graced his lips as Varloc discussed his newfound faith in the wolven gods. Kai was still unsure of his faith, aside from using the names of the gods Tor and Fenris in conversation he rarely thought to pray to them or to ask anything of them. This in itself was not surprising, for although Tor and Fenris were the most traditional of the wolven gods, many Varg would rather curse their names in times of hardship than thank them in times of good fortune. It seemed to him that the amount of help the gods could offer depended a great deal on the amount of faith their followers possessed. How could one be blessed without first believing? Though the case of Varloc had been odd indeed, it seemed to have served him well. While he did not altogether dismiss the existence of the gods, he chose instead to rely on himself for direction and advice. Despite his lack of faith, he bore no ill will towards those who sought guidance or salvation from above, he admired their adamant allegiance.

"No need for shame, friend. Zostar would not have presented Himself so had he not thought you worthy. What better time to believe than now?" He gave another flash of his toothy grin, for although he himself did not believe, had he been in this male's place, it was highly possible his sentiments might have changed as well. Slowly he turned back the way he had come, making sure that Varloc was ready to follow before padding off towards Koran. "Don't worry," he spoke with a grin, "Phantom is the only leader of Koran, and she is as kind as she is protective. I doubt we will see her, she has been busy as of late, though I would not have extended the invitation had I thought it would be against her wishes. As for the others, so long as your intentions are pure, you needn't worry about them. You have given me no reason thusfar to distrust you."

He moved with little effort through the tall grass. His steps were the calculated motions of a well-practiced scout, for he had memorized the terrain on his many outings. Soon the towering blades of grass began to thin out into the shorter foliage he was used to. "Please take into consideration that the valley is much more impressive in the spring and summer months," he spoke with the knowing tones of one who had resided in the lands long enough to know the changes that transpired with the turning of the seasons. The tones of his voice held the ever-present pride he felt for his homeland, though the admiration was void of any haughtiness or arrogance. Breaking from the trees, the packland was visible from the dens carved in stone to the slopes of the valley that rose to meet the mountains across the way. "Here it is," he breathed, his eyes alight as though a faint spell of enchantment had been cast upon him. "Come, you must be thirsty after the trek." He padded from the trees as though following an invisible path that was visible only to those who had practiced tracing it. He stopped at the edge of a gently flowing stream and looked back to be sure Varloc had followed. Content to see that he had, he then bowed his head to lap generously at the clear waters. Though it was cold as ice as it flowed into his belly, it was pleasantly refreshing. "So," he began, his tongue ridding his muzzle of the lingering water drops, "Tell me more of your travels. What wonders have you seen on your journeys?" Travel interested him greatly, for he was always wandering somewhere, and he wondered if this male had seen anything of interest in his time spent alone.

[Varloc]

ooc: I should probably clear some things up about this post. Varloc, as far as the way I play him, knows really nothing of humans or what they're called. To him, they look like ugly, furless, helpless two legged animals. Thats how the stories were told to him as a pup. His parents referred to them as the two-legged. I play my wolves that way. So I hope thats okay. He won't know what humans are, if you use the word.


The lean male followed without hesitation, allowing his paws to carry him wherever they pleased and for the moment, they seemed content on following the same invisible trail that the ebony male before him was taking. He saw the confidence in the male, something well deserved and he had no doubt of that. He knew that confidence for he, at one point in his life, walked with the same sense of pride. He had known his pack land well and felt capable enough to navigate the dark forest with his eyes closed. But ever since the cruel chain of events that had left him a mere kerl, he had found that confidence hard to come by. He wandered through land he did not know on an everyday basis. He longed for the security of a place well known, but he had a feeling that it might be well out of his reach at that current point in his life. He faltered in his steps, feeling a great sense of unease settle over him. Thinking in such a manner would only bring him down and that would increase his risk at contracting an illness. If he were to die, it would be in battle or old age, never, he had decided, never a disease.

Kai’s words once again brought Varloc back from his own dark thoughts, spreading a wave of embarrassment through his body. He was suddenly very thankful for his thick winter coat for it offered the concealment of his reddening skin. However, through the thinner patches of fur within his sensitive ears, there was the faint hue of pink as the blood rushed to them. ”I feel it would be rather Impractical for me to attempt any harm upon your pack. A lone wolf against a pack makes for rather terrible odds.” His pace picked up so that he drew up beside the shadowy hued male, though only as far as his front shoulder. Even if Kai found walking side by side un-insulting, Varloc did. He, naturally, followed behind because of his lower rank against Kai and it was his way of, without vocalizing it or making a great big scene, honoring the rank in which he knew the dark male had so rightly earned. For the most part, Varloc lapsed back into silence, taking in the change of scenery from the meadow to the forest, which Varloc strangely found comfort in, realizing it resembled his own birth land, and then finally, the valley. Despite Kai’s comments, the grey male found the valley to still be a splendid place of beauty. Even if the icy, unforgiving figures of winter had closed their tight grip around the land, there was still a strange, almost unearthly radiance about the place. And he knew, that when spring finally brought life back to this place, it would be mind blowing. “What nonsense do you speak of?” He uttered softly, allowing hid dark eyes to sweep over the dens and then follow the slope upwards towards the distant mountains. “Even now, there is such a beauty, that I know not the words for it. At Kai’s suggestion, Varloc merely nodded, still in awe at what he saw before him. In his travels, he had come across only a few valleys, each burning a place in his memory forever.

Again, he found himself trailing behind Kai, allowing his gaze to drift here and there in an attempt to take in all that he was seeing and remember each and every bit of it. But he became suddenly aware that Kai had stopped and was amazed to see that they had reached a rather sluggish, peaceful stream, spared from being frozen over. He found it irritating that he would end up places so suddenly during his day dreams that he had hardly a chance to admire anything. He stepped up slowing, staring down at the water as it passed over rocks, smoothed by years of erosion, but saw only his reflection in its glassy, rippling surface. He saw the tinge of grey beginning around his muzzle, despite the fact he still had a good several years to go, if everything went as planned. He saw his dark, muddy eyes and his dark coat, slightly disheveled from traveling. He saw his lean face and shoulders, the result of hard traveling. No doubt something that all kerls had to face when having to depend on themselves alone to survive. He knew that if he found a home in this dazzling place, he would put on some size and look far healthier then he appeared to be at the moment. With a gentle shake of his head, he lowered his own muzzle down to the water, lapping in the cool, satisfying liquid. With his thirst quenched, he felt a good deal better and more content then he had been in a long while.

“My travels… The grey male echoed, lowering his rump to the earth and curling his tail about his haunches. “For a good while, I saw nothing of great interest, though that may be because I was busy drowning in my own dark thoughts. When I finally realized that no matter how hard I wished, nothing would change, that’s when I began noticing the great differences in the land as I traveled. Through mountains, valleys, just like your’s, forests of all sorts and even barren, lifeless flats covered in nothing but hard rock and sand. I met all sorts of creatures, each interesting in their own way..” He paused, allowing his eyes to drift towards the sky for a moment. “The one thing that sticks out in my mind though was during a rather chilly autumn day. I was traveling along the tree line of some valley, following a deer trail in hopes I might get lucky and find a sickly thing for my supper. My luck, however, was not so great. I somehow got snagged in some strange trap, my leg painfully twisted up in the weird vines of sort. The kind those two legged creatures use. Anyways, at first I became rather paniced and contemplated chewing off my own paw to free myself. I’d rather be missing a paw then face starvation or worse. However, I found myself incapable of actually going through with it.” Varloc paused, shame having creeped into his voice as he recalled his loss of bravery in that moment, but he continued. “I laid there for several days and obviously, I grew weak, though not weak enough I couldn’t stand. However, I conserved what I had left of my energy to fight off anything that might try and make an early meal out of me. I was surprised one evening though, when one of those rather frail two legged creatures came tramping forwards from the cover of the forest. I could smell the fear dripping from him and at first, I was going to rip into him as soon as he came close enough. But…something stopped me. He spoke strangely, making soft noises as though attempting to communicate with me and I felt that he meant no great harm. I had not been his intended target. Those creatures are so poorly built for the winter, that I have a feeling he had been hoping for something larger, a deer perhaps. So I gave the creature my trust. I was pleasantly surprised when he freed my paw from his trap and moved away quickly. I staied where I was for a moment, debating over what I should do with the creature. In the end, I rose stiffly and limped away, never giving the ugly thing a second glance. He had spared me and I, him.” He allowed a thoughtful look to pace over his face, as he gazed back towards the water and then to Kai, avoiding direct contact with his eyes out of respect. “They’re not as terrible as the legends and stories speak of. They’re to be respected, just as any puntar in nature should be. They have their strengths and weaknesses. At times, they win out over us and other times, we win out over them. But I never did see that creature again nor any more of his kind for that matter.

[Kai]

((I'm just gonna keep playing Kai as knowing what they're called xD)

A smile graced his slender maw as he watched the gray male become almost entranced by his surroundings. Kai had joined the pack as a young pup, and at the time he had been more amazed by the kindness offered by the members of the pack than the dazzling scenery. As time wore on he had developed not only respect, but a certain fondness for every tree and stream; a sentiment that was reserved for his home in particular. No matter the flamboyance of nearby territories, or the pleasant layouts of nearby lands, his heart would always belong first and foremost to the beautiful valley that he called his home. Even in the winter it held a certain charm, though he had been unsure if Varloc would agree. Of course the season made no difference to the Beta, for he treasured his home regardless, though he knew it might be easier to appreciate had the valley been blooming with wildflowers as it did in the spring, or if Fenris had been present in the sky warming the land to a comfortable temperature. The gray male had surprised him with his reaction, and he seemed to approve of the land a great deal. Kai couldn't help but feel a bit of pride for being able to call the land his own.

Seeing that the male before him had drank his fill and now looked refreshed, Kai made himself more comfortable, settling down onto his haunches as the mann set into his story. At first nothing seemed out of the ordinary, though his ears flicked in recognition as he mentioned two-legged creatures. "Man..." he spoke under his breath, the word was hushed and somewhat bitter, intended for his ears alone. The desperation that had plagued the gray mann seemed great indeed, for his description of the self-sacrificing thoughts that had come to him during that time were disturbing, to say the least. He supposed that in the same situation, he would have pondered the same, for survival sometimes came at a high price, especially when dealing with the compromising situations that man often forced nature into.

Varloc's tale had been a strange one, for Kai had never heard of the kindness that man could show, only the treachery. He had seen for himself their capacity for sheer indifference only suns before. He had been on his way to the neighboring pack of GeRad and, having been stopped at the border by their lead scout, had unknowingly taken a detour. The two of them had nearly wandered straight into the encampment of two-leggeds. The two wolves had kept out of site, though had observed the humans for some time, noting their oddly familiar behaviors and comparing them to other beasts of the forest. Their tribe had been seated around a controlled flame, the hot embers were somehow more subdued than their destructive cousins that ran rampant through the trees from time to time. It had been such carelessness, or such malice, that had claimed his family. He had been the only one to escape the dancing flames, the sole survivor of the devastation that only man could bestow. True, not all of them were tainted with evil intent, though Kai had experienced both sides of the spectrum. He always favored the belief of the potential for good, though he knew all too well that the benefit of the doubt was sometimes given to those who did not deserve it.

He felt his hackles bristle slightly near the end of the male's speech, and for a moment the bitter memory his loss clutched tightly at his heart. "You were lucky, indeed," he spoke in a lower tone than he had previously used, "Such is not the case for us all." His voice was forlorn as his amber eyes wandered to meet the clouds for a brief moment, as though he were searching for more than just a topic that might lift the newly-formed tension. "They are to be respected, yes, for there is nothing to be gained once respect is lost. It is important also to keep in mind their potential for destruction, some of their kind seem to have an appetite for it, this I know for certain.". He paused for a moment, wondering if the mann would question his knowledge, which he hoped he would not. "Luckily we have few encounters with their kind here in Koran, though just a few suns ago, I and a scout from a neighboring pack almost walked into a pack of them, hidden within the trees. They were resting though, interacting with their families much as Varg do. They were not in the territory long, and moved away from our packs, as we both figured and hoped they would. We haven't heard nor seen any of them since." Thank Fenris he added as an afterthought, though in truth, their presence had been more captivating and thought-provoking than upsetting. For a moment he had contemplated
Man and Lera being able to live together harmoniously, each keeping to their own terra, encounters being minimal and tolerable if they happened at all. Such was wishful thinking though, and he knew it, though he chose to try and keep such thoughts positive if they were to cross his mind at all. "And where shall you go now?" he asked, the glow in his eyes restored by his curiosity.

[Varloc]

Silently, the grey male sat, dark eyes clouded over with thought as he mused over his own story for a short time, before his thoughts were interrupted by the soft vocals of the male beside him. He shifted his gaze to the young male, studying him thoughtfully. He has a wise flare in his eyes, while still appearing youthful. He took note of the hint of pride in the male, finding it heart warming for he too, had had that same sense of pride in him when he ran his own home. Varloc shoved the thoughts that came flooding to his mind aside and once again set his attention on the male beside him. He was speaking and no doubt it was of great importance. He had a feeling that whatever the young male had to say needed to be considered and given a friendly ear to listen.

Varloc allowed no emotion to settle on his greying face, dark eyes downcast as he listened. The words of the young male were interesting and he couldn't help but once again recall his own close encounter with the two legged species. He was right-- the humans were to be respected as well as feared. They were creatures of great skill that could no doubt case unimaginable harm. As he spoke of not having seen the creatures again since their encounter, Varloc lifted his dark eyes to study Kai's face and then the area around them. He was not one that was very fond of the winter-- the cold made old injures and his bones ach, however, it gave the land a rather cruel beauty. Despite the untainted appearance, the land was no doubt a danger to all. Food sources dwindled during the season and the cold became yet another obsticle in life. He knew what the cold could do to young and old.

"Where will I go..." Varloc echoed, tilting his head up so that he could once again stare heavenward. It wasn't a difficult question to answer. He had faced it through out most of his life -- traveling the way he did called for the answer to that question all the time. "I suppose I'll just pick a direction and keep going until I can't go any further. Continue walking until I have no more life left. I have no real destination." Varloc paused, tilting his head to the side in a curious manner. "How about you? You must have a bundle of young ones somewhere. A darling female to call your own?"


ooc: Sorry its so late. Binx, my kitty, is doing a lot better and I've been busy with him. x.x

[Kai]

I hope this gave you enough to work with, I wasn't sure what else to have him say :/))

Letting out a deep breath, the male began to regain what little he had lost of his composure. His intent had not been to start an argument, and, thankfully, it looked like this male knew that. Once more his hackles flattened, giving him the image of a wolf with a great sense of self control. In the silence that followed, his amber eyes surveyed the gray mann's face for signs of understanding. Empathy was easy enough to find in his gentle features, his overall attitude was passive and mellow. It was a welcome change to see someone, a Kerl no less, who was so in control of their emotions and ego. Not to mention how willing he seemed to listen to Kai's words. As the two sat there conversing, it seemed a natural environment for the both of them. Had a Varg been observing them from the trees, it might look as though each was as much a member of the pack as the other.

The male's dark eyes held a sort of sadness that Kai could not understand, though when he opened his maw in reply, it became apparent. Like Kai, Varloc was inclined to wander, letting his paws take him wherever they willed. The only difference being (and it was a significant difference at that) after all was said and done, Kai had a place to come home to. He used his wandering as a tool that aided his self-searching rather than a way of life. It seemed very unfortunate to him that Varloc had nowhere to turn in after letting himself amble so far. "That sounds awful," he said, not caring to hide his distress. "You mean to say you will venture until the day you expire, with no place to come home to, without knowing the faces of friends or loved ones?" He hoped he was not being offensive, though the notion came as quite a surprise to him, especially since the gray mann seemed to have taken such a liking to the pack lands. "Forgive me, I did not mean to offend you, if indeed I have. It just seems to me that a life would be much more pleasant if a vagrant soul could find comfort within a family. That being said, let me offer Koran as your destination, seeing as you have already reached it. If you find such beauty and comfort in these lands as you say, then let us hope that you may feel welcome enough to consider them your home. If not now, then someday in the future." He knew already that the Drappa would approve of the mann, how could she not? His docile temperament would serve as a stunning example of Koran's standards

The male's next question surprised him, and left him feeling a bit flustered. "Young ones? A female? Oh no," he affirmed with a chuckle. "I have no mate nor family of my own save for my fellow pack members, though I am not entirely opposed to the idea." In fact, there was a certain fae that came to mind in the midst of his explanation, though it did not seem fit to mention her aloud, seeing as how their relationship did not go past mere acquaintances. He hoped that in time he would be able to call Krystal a friend, a good one at that, though to hope for much more would only lead to disappointment, he was certain.

[Varloc]

ooc: I didn't even know you had posted. xD I'm so dumb. Anyways, we can stop this thread now, if you wish. I was hoping Dakota would have replied-- I was going to have that been Varloc's time outside of the Koran pack-- and then he can return when he is to become a true member! ;D ;D


Varloc’s dark muddy eyes snapped up from his paws which they had before settled, so that he could now stare almost surprised at the male before him. His statement came unexpected and Varloc found it slightly comforting to see that another fellow Varg could feel something other than anger or lust. The young male before him seemed concern with his future, though Varloc didn’t see exactly why. He was starting to slope down from his peak and his chance for anything beside’s friends and pack members was fading just as fast as his years were. A family—one he, himself could create would be without a question, welcomed. A family—composed of close friends and a caring pack was equally as welcomed.

”Awful? Oh, I don’t know about that. All of us eventually die—some of us with loved ones about and others, alone. But we all, in the end, will rejoin one another.” Varloc offered a soft smile, his scarred muzzle wrinkling with honest amusement. True, the idea of dying alone was not on the top of Varloc’s list of things he wanted to do, but he would accept his fate, whatever it may be. What kept his heart light and his mind clear was the thought of eventually reuniting with lost loved ones.

Again, Varloc’s eyes widened with surprise. Join the pack in which resided within the lands on which he now stood? He allowed his gaze to soft and then drift away from Kai to once again stare out into the distance. The land was intoxicating. It called to him. Something about it was familiar to him—resembling his own home rather closely. He mulled over the idea and was tempted to flat out accept the offer, however, Varloc wasn’t one to jump on something without giving it some real thought. He wished not to seem rude, but he had a sense his host would understand.

”Your offer is more than I could ever imagine and more then appreciated. However, I hope you can understand this; I would like to take a few days to gather my thoughts. Your home is stunning and from what I have gathered from watching you, your pack is probably no less amazing. And the need for these few days is not because I have any concerns or ill feelings with the idea… It’s simply the fact that I am getting up there in age and it will be a big life change.” With that said, Varloc stood, dipping his head in a grateful bow and began to turn. “I will return by sunrise in three days. I shall have my answer for you.” The twinkle in the male’s eyes hinted to the answer that would come and gave a clue to the unconscious reason why the male did not accept the gift of a home so quickly. This would be his time to bid farewell to his wandering life and set his mind to that of a pack mentality.

With one final nod, the old brute slid away, casting no other glance to the undescribable beauty of the land that the young male dubbed Koran. His mind swam with thoughts of the future. Of the pack mates that he would come to know and care for. He half worried over what the Leaders would say. What would they want with some old fool like him? What could he really do? In a handful of years Varloc would be useless for hunting and a few years just wasn’t enough time for Varloc to earn his keep. This concern he would keep to himself. He would find out how the pack felt about him soon enough.