Negotiations

[Aryela Jade Secray]

“Teklara reminds me that there are some things best kept to the meeting. But, I can tell you that Lord Thallek has two children. The son is around your age, I would say, and the daughter is three years older. Their mother, Thallek’s wife, has returned to her birth clan until summer. You will be meeting Thallek’s son and daughter at dinner.”

Teklara hid a smile as her mate--or rather, soon-to-be-mate--missed the nuance of her statement and instead politely answered Petra's question. Ah, her beloved was as wise as he was handsome, but sometimes she wondered if he missed the subtle movements and words of those who were in love. Then again, he had not had the misfortune of trying to woo Teklara. She had openly expressed her attraction to him, and hadn't even bothered to play hard to get. Oh, she teased him from time to time, but he knew she was his, just as he belonged to her.

The she-wolf nuzzled his neck again, attempting to make him blush, though Petra and Zill would not see it. Her tail curled lightly around his for a moment, and while their two companions considered Vyrli's words, Petra leaned closer and whispered a few loving, and somewhat suggestive words into his ear, in her language of course. She could feel his paw itching to go somewhere else. Would he have enough self-control if she continued teasing him? She was quite certain, but it was still fun.

Teklara winked at him and leaned in closer as they walked together, enjoying his presence, his scent, his wisdom and grace....everything about him was simply wonderful. They were so lucky to have each other, and she wished the best for both Petra and Zill, though after Thallek's announcement tonight, she had to wonder what the two tribal wolves' reactions would be.

Petra nodded silently in response to Vyrli's explanation, even though he wouldn't be able to see it. She was a little confused that Vyrli hadn't answered if the children were betrothed or not, but she brushed that aside. If they do have mates, I'm sure we'll see them at dinner. Odd that both children are near to my age. Thallek must be around the same age as my mother. Interesting. She hadn't realized that Thallek was so young...or old by other creatures' standards. If he was anything like her tribemates, he would be waiting to marry his children off to help keep the peace with other clans and tribes (if he hadn't done so already).

That was one of the only reasons Petra regretted being named the future Alpha of the Ney'Kalo. In truth, Mysin should hold the title since he was the first born. In fact, he had received the honor, up until he started performing some questionable acts. She-wolves had spoken out against him, and not just from the Ney'Kalo. He shirked his responsibilities, did not study under the elders, ignored the lessons of his parents...In Petra's opinion, he was not fit to lead anyone, much less an entire tribe. He was too irresponsible, and too concerned about his own welfare. He didn't care what happened to the Ney'Kalo. So long as he knew where his next meal, his next drink, and his next she-wolf were coming from, the world just didn't matter.

Petra snorted quietly in disgust and moved closer to Zill, finding comfort in his presence. Zill had the makings of a good Alpha, as did she. Sometimes, Petra was even ashamed to say that Mysin was her brother...Zill was younger and yet he was wiser than Mysin. Gods, she remembered Mysin's reaction when Petra had been named future Alpha. It had been during one of their winter celebrations, a time when certain tribemates received blessings or gifts for tasks they had accomplished during the year. When Petra had been called forward, she'd been completely blindsided by her parents' intention.

Oonah had called her daughter up to a sort of altar set up in the snow. When Petra had bowed before her, to the shock of their tribemates, Oonah had pulled off her headdress, and placed it on her daughter's brow.

"Petralavi, because you have shown an understanding of tribal politics, celebrations, traditions...and because you have given to your tribemates more than you have received, I bestow upon you the title of future Alpha."

"What?!" Mysin had exploded. Thrusting the she-wolf he had been trying to woo for the past moon aside, he'd charged up to the altar, red in the face. "Mother! How can you do this? I am first born! The title belongs to me!"

"You may be first born," Ahmaer had murmured quietly, "But you have yet to show any initiative of leading this tribe. Petralavi has led hunts, learned the ways of the spirits and our elders, studied under many, many teachers to understand our customs! She has shown dedication to the Ney'Kalo more in a year than you have in your whole life."

Oonah had stepped before her son and crossed her arms. "You have also disgraced the Ney'Kalo with your actions when you visited the Zjolan as well as the Mezaric. Petralavi will be Alpha, and you will respect her, unless you wish to challenge her," Oonah added with a lifted eyebrow.

Knowing he would be unable to defeat his sister, Mysin had stomped away, snarling, leaving Petra completely stunned. It wasn’t until days later, when Mysin had followed Petra on a hunt, that he had finally expressed just much of a barrier this had placed between them. She had been about to catch her prey when Mysin had leapt upon her, driving her to the ground. After a brief scuffle, Petra had succeeded in pinning her brother to the ground.

"Are you mad?" she'd shouted.

Mysin had struggled then snarled in her face. "I should be Alpha! Mother and father only favor you because they're afraid of my strength! You've stolen my title from me, and I shall never forgive you, amsear."

Petra had been stricken by the word.Amsear was what a family member called a wolf when he was disowned from the tribe. It was a horrible word to use, especially to a sibling. Petra had sat back in shock then shook her head.

"What is done, is done, Mysin. Our parents have made the decision, and I cannot change their minds. It is not my fault."

"It is your fault!" Mysin had struggled to his footpaws and spat at the ground beside her. "You won't be Alpha, amsear, I'll see to that!"

Five years had passed since that fateful day, and still Mysin had yet to act upon his threat. For the first year, Petra had feared for her safety, but Mysin had not treated her any differently, except to give her a cold eye from time to time. Petra had stopped worrying about it, but now, she almost wished her brother was Alpha simply because he would be the one forced into a marriage, not her. But then, she was being selfish…and there was no marriage she was being forced into. She was getting ahead of herself.

Petra sighed deeply, her ears flicking back sadly. Curse this drab hallway for influencing her melancholy memories. Silently, she brushed her paw against Zill's, almost going so far as to curl her fingers around his, but she let her arm fall away before she could make him uncomfortable...not that he had ever cared before.

When the shadow loomed out of the corner, Petra jerked back slightly in surprise, at least until she caught the scent.

“May I join you, friends? It is better to wander these halls with company.”

The she-wolf relaxed a bit then gave her head a little bob. "You're welcome to join us," she said quietly, not bothering to use the term of "brother" to Romulus. No, that went to clan and tribe members, not to a foreigner. Romulus seemed kind, but he still had yet to win her trust.

"How much further?" she finally asked of Vyrli.

[Bowen Lark]

Vyrli furrowed his brow and glanced at Teklara, worried he had upset his mate-to-be by missing the undertone of her message. She did not seem annoyed with him. If anything, the wolf thought, she finds me highly amusing right now. A small smile cut across his maw, easing the roan wolf’s features. He fretted too easily about Teklara’s feelings, forever worrying that he had offended her in some way. It was hard not to. The she-wolf was beautiful and elegant, the object of attraction for many rivals... to lose her to the attentions of another would be devastating. Vyrli knew he could not make her happy by force of will, but he worked hard to show Teklara that he cherished her. He dreaded that at any moment, a blade of unhappiness would sever the connection between them.

Then the she-wolf nuzzled his neck. Vyrli let a sigh of relief escape him. He shot her an ardent look and tried to frown, but it was difficult to look displeased when Teklara was teasing him. His hands itched to retaliate. Vyrli sucked in a breath and tried to focus on his duty to Thallek. The roan wolf also shot a look over his shoulder and glanced into Zill’s laughing eyes. His skin prickled with heat and a sudden roar of embarrassment curdled his ardour for Teklara. Vyrli let out a weak laugh.

He started to ponder Teklara’s earlier admonition. She had a deeply intuitive spirit, capable of discerning nuances that largely escaped his attention. Vyrli thought the she-wolf must have seen something to warn him against speaking of Thallek’s intentions. Consider their hearts? Bemused, Vyrli rubbed his free hand across his chin.

Zill’s gaze danced between the two wolves in front of them and Petra. A wide grin stretched out across his maw – Teklara’s antics had not gone unnoticed by the grey wolf’s quick eye. The couple’s obvious love for one another was endearing. Zill found Teklara’s teasing gestures and Vyrli’s barely-stifled reactions charming; they were behaving much like his parents did when they thought no one was watching. He made to nudge Petra to bring her in on the joke, but one glance at the serious cast of her face sobered Zill’s amusement. He studied her frowning mouth and distant eyes, wondering what had drawn the she-wolf into her thoughts. Maybe the stone walls are getting to her. It is unnaturally dark and damp in this place, he thought.

Vyrli greeted Romulus with a pleased murmur and offered the dark wolf the lead of the group. Romulus shook his head and gave Vyrli and Teklara a kind smile.

“I only barely know the way myself. Lead on, Council Elder.”

”How much further?”

“We’re nearly there. The dining hall is on the highest floor – a peculiarity, I have found. It offers the best view of the surrounding lands, but it is a fair walk from the rooms on the first level. Thallek’s father designed a system of pulleys from the kitchen to the dining hall. In Thren Vraenar’s time, cold suppers were common. Wolves were forever running from the kitchen to the hall, but food cools quickly in Lehvalek.”

Zill muttered an agreement, his arms crossed over his chest. Behind him, Romulus let out a low laugh.

“The rooms are much warmer, friends,” he said. “Lehvalek’s walls are run through with pipes that take in water from an underground hotspring. But I am told Thren did not see much reason in installing these pipes in the hallways, so moving from room to room is often a startling experience.”

Zill flicked an ear at the dark wolf. “That would be the origin of the dampness, then. The cold on the Talosi tundra is of a different sort – it aims to cut into your skin, but thick clothing stops it. The cold here seems to seep into me like an illness. It settled into my bones before I was even aware of it.”

Romulus nodded, rumbling in empathy. “I was not prepared for either kind of cold when I arrived here. For my first season in Lehvalek I was made to drink a tincture against lung sickness – two days here and I developed a cough so rattling it nearly cracked my ribs.”

“Lord Thallek did not want to return a sick wolf to the guilds, Romulus,” Vyrli said. “Ah, we are here.”

Zill blinked as the hallway suddenly opened up, spilling into a room twice the size of the library. Lit tapers and torches dotted the walls, filling the room with soft light. Two fires burned in impressively large hearths on opposite walls, flanking a massive dark wood table. Against the other walls were smaller tables nearly staggering under the weight of countless dishes of food and drink. The scents assailed him, driving a fierce hunger into the grey wolf’s belly. He smelled spices reminiscent of his mother’s cooking. Ahead of them, Vyrli turned and spread his hands.

“Welcome to the dining hall, brother and sister.”

A scraping noise brought Zill’s attention to the end of the table. He watched a tall, heavyset wolf with fur the colour of old ash rise from a chair. His dark green robes rustled against the ground as he approached.

“Yes, welcome,” the wolf said. He showed his palms in a sign of peace. “I have been awaiting you most eagerly, Petralavi of the Ney’Kalo, and Zill of the Zjolan. I am most thankful you decided to join me here for dinner and for discussions. Please return to your families with my thanks when you return to your clans. I am Thallek Vraenar, Alpha of the Lehvalek clans.”

Zill immediately dropped into a bow. Thallek was far older than he had imagined, old enough to be his and Petra’s grandsire. He looked both venerable and fierce, his long beard braided with pieces of antler and bone and his face decorated by bright red clan tattoos. He stood nearly as tall as Romulus, but clearly outsized the brawny dark wolf in girth. Zill had heard tales that Thallek favoured a great hammer as his weapon, and now he could see the likely truth in the rumour. No wonder the banished clans had not contested his order of exile.

“Please, son and daughter, rise. This is not a ceremony, but a meeting of equals.” Thallek gestured for them to take seats. “Let us enjoy a meal together. I can hear my children coming.”

Zill padded over to the table and followed a tap from Vyrli as a hint of what seat to take. He settled into a chair beside Petra. Romulus, Vyrli and Teklara took seats on the opposite side. The chairs immediately beside Thallek were empty, likely reserved for his children.

“Good evening, Dasha,,” a clear voice called from the hall door. Zill recognized the Zjolan word for father in the greeting. His eyes flicked over to a new she-wolf padding across the room.

Thallek rose slightly in his chair, beaming. “Good evening, Evaria.”
Evaria moved to take the seat on her father’s right, greeting each of the guests with an even smile. She had some of her father’s height, but her frame was willowy. Her fur was pale amber and marked by a number of dark green tattoos. She shared her father’s bright blue gaze, with the same hint of steel. Her dress was formal, a gauzy silver wrap that left her shoulders bare and dropped to her knees. It looked like a tapestry, covered in symbols of Talosi deities and spirits. Arm and calf bands made from woven and dyed reindeer hair covered each limb. She wore a heavy wood and bone necklace and green gem earrings in each ear. Zill noticed that she wore her headfur cut short, nearly to the length of a male’s hunting cut. Although elegant and well-made, the outfit could not diminish a fierceness evident in the she-wolf’s every step. Another warrior goddess like Petra, Zill thought. He wondered how the two would get along.

“Welcome, brother and sister,” Evaria said, canting her head toward Zill and Petra. “My father has talked for many moons of including the lesser clans in this trade business with the southern guilds. I am glad to see his hopes finally coming to fruition.”

“The guilds are also well-pleased,” Romulus said. His eyes darted toward Evaria and then back to Petra and Zill. “They know that clans like the Ney’Kalo and Zjolan would offer much to what the Talosi clans already contribute. And they are willing to return offer great incentives to your clans for joining the Talosi guild.”

Thallek cleared his throat and waved a heavy hand at Romulus.

“Later, my friend. Let us eat first. Evaria, where is your brother?”

ooc: feel free to rp Evaria's brother. just don't get too attached

[Aryela Jade Secray]

The affections that Teklara and Vyrli shared were not lost to Petra, but she wasn't as amused by their antics as Zill was. Had she not been forced to relive those bitter moments with her brother perhaps Petra would have joined in with the laughter and the silent joke, but she had put up one of her walls, subduing her emotions and leaving her suddenly stone-faced. Her eyes lifted slightly when Zill glanced at her, and she could see the worry on his visage. It wasn't often that Petra folded in on herself. She was typically very open with her emotions and feelings, when the situation permitted it, and she knew it was difficult for Zill to be excluded from her thoughts. She did her best to send him a comforting smile, but it was half-hearted. With a slight roll of her eyes, she mouthed "Mysin" so he would know where her mind had wandered.

Sighing quietly, she pressed her muzzle to Zill's shoulder for a moment then continued their journey to the dining room. By Otahera, she was happy that he was with her. It made the enclosed halls bearable, though she still wanted nothing more than to run outside into the fresh air. Wolves were just not meant to be kept behind stone walls.

Teklara glanced over her shoulder at the pair, sympathy flashing in her eyes. She recognized the distress, remembering how uncomfortable she had been the first time she visited Thallek's home. Over the years she'd grown accustomed to it, and having Vyrli at her side always chased away her fears. Therefore, she found it endearing when she caught sight of Petra hiding her face against Zill's shoulder, seeking comfort from him just as Teklara had sought it from her beloved. Again, she felt the connection between the two wolves, and her amused smiled turned regretful. Ah, she knew Thallek's intentions for this evening, and she hoped it would not damage the relationship between him and the clans.

With a slight shake of her head, she turned back to Romulus and chuckled. "I remember when you grew ill. You may not have known me back then, but I helped with the healers to ease your cough. I think you kept half the kingdom awake!" she exclaimed with a playful laugh. Truthfully, having a guild-wolf sick had worried the healers. It would not do Thallek any good if he allowed a guild member to die at his front door.

The Mezaric she-wolf brushed up closer to Vyrli and rested her head upon his warm shoulder. When they reached the dining room, she breathed in the succulent scents of food and gave a contented sigh. Ah, yes, Thallek always did put on quite a feast when other clans and tribes visited. Her mouth had fallen open the first time she saw the banquet, though now she had become so used to it, it didn't surprise her to see tables straining beneath heaping plates of food.

Petra, on the other hand, slowed and felt her eyes grow wide. She stared at the dining room, shocked and grateful for the size. At least she didn't feel as closed in anymore, but at the same time, she had never been in such a huge room! This was where they frequently had their meals? She shot a glance at Zill and mouthed, "By Otahera," before she wandered slowly forward, following Romulus and Vyrli. When her eyes finally landed on Thallek, her somber mood evaporated, and the true daughter of the Alphas came forth.

“Yes, welcome. I have been awaiting you most eagerly, Petralavi of the Ney’Kalo, and Zill of the Zjolan. I am most thankful you decided to join me here for dinner and for discussions. Please return to your families with my thanks when you return to your clans. I am Thallek Vraenar, Alpha of the Lehvalek clans.”

"It is an honor, great Lord," Petra replied as she bowed low and swept her paw across her brow in a sign of respect. She too was a bit surprised by Thallek's age, but she didn't show it.

“Please, son and daughter, rise. This is not a ceremony, but a meeting of equals. Let us enjoy a meal together. I can hear my children coming.”

Petra smiled and rose elegantly, her tail swishing quietly behind her. She followed Zill to the table and sat down beside him, her paw brushing his arm as another form of comfort. This was unusual for both of them, but she suspected the dinner would go fine. Thallek seemed like a kind leader, though looks could often be deceiving.

Teklara followed Romulus and Vyrli to the other end of the table. She seated herself beside her betrothed and actually rubbed his leg lovingly beneath the table. A feisty wink was sent in his direction before she turned to watch the arrival of Evaria.

“Good evening, Dasha. Welcome, brother and sister. My father has talked for many moons of including the lesser clans in this trade business with the southern guilds. I am glad to see his hopes finally coming to fruition.”

"We thank you, dear sister," Petra replied and inclined her head politely. Evaria's appearance surprised her. She had expected more of a courtly she-wolf (not that Evaria wasn't really courtly) but she also had a warrior's feel around her. Thallek's daughter also looked rather exotic and beautiful in her attire, but her appearance didn't bother her as much as Teklara's had. Perhaps it was because she sensed the warrior inside of the royal she-wolf. Yes, that had to be it.

“The guilds are also well-pleased. They know that clans like the Ney’Kalo and Zjolan would offer much to what the Talosi clans already contribute. And they are willing to return offer great incentives to your clans for joining the Talosi guild.”

“Later, my friend. Let us eat first. Evaria, where is your brother?”

Petra chuckled at that and playfully commented, "Aye, my father often says it is better to speak of politics after dinner so we can stomach our food." She winked at Zill, knowing that he had heard her parents say that at least several times before or after negotiations.

"She's quite right, father. Politics tend to diminish the appetite."

Petra looked up as a tall, dusty gray wolf strolled calmly into the room. He had a few inches on his sister, and was thinner than his father. His shoulders were broad, and his arms were heavily muscled beneath leather straps decorated by stones. Ebony headfur swished from a ponytail behind his head, the leather thong holding it decorated with a few stones and feathers. His baby-blue eyes swept across the group as he sent his father and the others a charming smile. He wore silk trews that matched the color of his headfur, while a sleeveless white jerkin adorned his torso, leaving his arms and throat free. Like his sister, he wore a bone and wood necklace. A single silver-hooped earring dangled from his ear, one edge studded with a sapphire stone. A few clan symbols decorated his white and silver trimmed jerkin, and a few more appeared on his cheeks specifically.

He walked purposefully across the room and grinned a little wider when he noticed Zill and Petra. He went to their sides first, since he had already met Romulus, Vyrli, and Teklara, and bowed his head politely.

"Greetings to you dearest brother and sister. I am Gannon, son of Thallek."

Petra smiled and went to reply when Gannon took her paw and, to her surprise, kissed it. The she-wolf pulled back with a start, causing Teklara to chuckle.

"Sister, do not mind him. Gannon is just showing you the proper respect that the southern courts often show to royalty, isn't that right Romulus?" She glanced at the wolf then explained softly. "Gannon's been studying the traditions of different courts, and apparently this one has stuck with him. He did the same thing to me when I arrived and nearly sent my Vyrli into a rage."

Gannon chuckled and bowed his head apologetically. "I'm sorry Lady Petralavi. I should not be so upfront. Welcome, welcome, and to you as well, Zill of the Zjolan."

Though Petra was still a little shocked, she spared him a small smile. "It is quite all right. Well met, Gannon."

With another charming smile, Gannon sat down beside his father and folded his paws on the table. He looked at all of his guests with respect, though his eyes went to Petra more often than not. The she-wolf noticed it, but she figured he was just curious about their garb. He seemed pleasant enough, and he was certainly easy on the eyes. Her kissed paw flexed a bit, and she dropped it below the table before clearing her throat quietly.

Teklara snorted and glanced at Gannon, whispering, "You're hopeless at times, my brother."

"You should teach me the ways of your clan, Teklara. Maybe I would be more acceptable to the ladies," he said with a laugh. Teklara rolled her eyes, but she seemed rather amused with him. In the short time that she had been there, she had actually built a close friendship with Gannon, though it was more brotherly-sisterly affection than anything else. Vyrli had no reason to fear.

ooc: hehe. Gannon amuses me. Hope that works for you.

[Bowen Lark]

Zill kept his hands pressed against the chair arms. He was finding it difficult not to fidget – the table was littered with decorations he had never seen before, and the urge to exam them was nagging at him. A tight smile quirked the corners of the grey wolf’s mouth, but he kept the rest of his face smooth and unreadable. Truly, this was a Ney’Kaloan venture; he was merely Petra’s guest and escort. Thallek was showing the Zjolan a kindness by including the clan in on negotiations, and Zill desperately did not want to push the old wolf’s graciousness.

His thoughts flicked back to Petra’s earlier pensiveness. Although Zill knew that the she-wolf had been thinking about her wayward brother, the flash of unhappiness over Petra’s mood was troubling. Being in such close proximity again reminded the grey wolf of how attuned he once was to Petra’s emotions. She could be both easy and difficult to read, at times displaying one emotion while tamping down another. Zill felt as though she showed him a glimpse others did not have the privilege to see, a side of Petra both vulnerable and strong. He thought of her muzzle pressing against his shoulder as they entered the dining hall and felt a sudden pang in his chest. There had been no time to confide in one another since entering the keep. Zill wanted to share the thoughts upsetting his head and hear from Petra why Mysin was suddenly disquieting her. After dinner we will talk.

Romulus sat stone-still in his seat, moving his gaze over everything in the dining hall except what he wanted to gaze upon. He locked eyes with Zill for a breath and flashed the pale wolf a kind smile, hoping to convey that the mood was supposed to be celebratory and full of cheer. Yet despite Thallek’s careful preparations, the dark wolf detected a thin blade of tension underneath the playful greetings and warm introductions. There was much at stake, for all of the Talosi clans and the guilds in the south. Romulus had spent a few sleepless nights dwelling on Thallek’s intentions for the meeting with the Ney’Kalo alpha heir. The old wolf was trying to dance a line between tradition and progress, one that had already gone sour with the banished clans. He’s canny though, and just as adept at politics as some of the high chairs in the south. Worry still churned a steady wave in the dark wolf’s gut. Thallek had been secretive of his grand scheme for the night’s negotiations to all but his council. I don’t like this sitting in the dark business, and Vyrli’s been close-lipped to all but Teklara.

"Aye, my father often says it is better to speak of politics after dinner so we can stomach our food."

Romulus welcomed Petra’s joke with a grateful laugh. He watched as Zill shot the white she-wolf a knowing smirk, and guessed that the adage was an oft-used one amongst the Ney’Kalo.

"She's quite right, father. Politics tend to diminish the appetite."

Thallek grinned at his son. “You can see that Petra has inherited Ahmaer’s wisdom. And her mother’s beauty.”

“How do you know it is not the other way around?” Evaria quipped, winking at Petra. She rose to greet her brother. “Well met, Gannon – do not put Petra off her meal, now.”

"Sister, do not mind him. Gannon is just showing you the proper respect that the southern courts often show to royalty, isn't that right Romulus? Gannon's been studying the traditions of different courts, and apparently this one has stuck with him. He did the same thing to me when I arrived and nearly sent my Vyrli into a rage.”

The dark wolf flicked an ear and nudged Vyrli with an elbow. “I recall. Not too often you see a scholar making those kind of threats.” He rumbled a laugh at the roan wolf’s wince and continued, voice dry. “But aye, it’s common in the south for nobles to greet one another in that fashion. Something about the male holding back his desire and delivering only a chaste kiss on the hand of the maiden is meant to convey respect.”

Zill observed the exchange and tried to keep his brow from furrowing. Gannon’s display of southern manners struck the grey wolf as a needless performance. He clenched his teeth and showed the other wolf a smile.

“You are well met, Gannon of Lehvalek,” the grey wolf said, his voice low and cool.

Thallek snorted. “Romulus, your descriptions of southern customs leave me believing that the Talosi tundra is finally seeming like home to you. How now do you find the north and the clans?”
The dark wolf rested his hands on the table and looked at Thallek, his gaze passing over Evaria.

“The Talosi is as much a home to me as the south was. I admit I am somewhat of an anomaly – I think the world is haunil in the common tongue: clanless. The guilds like that I show no ties to any one land so that I might more evenly represent the interests of both the north and the south,” he said, voice resonating in the large room. “But aye, I find the Talosi very agreeable – now more than ever.”

Thallek smiled and gestured to an assortment of wolves waiting by the other tables. In the next few breaths, the dining table disappeared under a mass of steaming dishes and uncovered plates.

“That is well, Romulus,” the old wolf murmured. “Your presence has become as dear to me as any of my council elders. You may claim Lehvalek as your home at any time, you know this.”

Romulus nodded. Vyrli clicked his tongue and started to ladle a dark broth into his bowl.

“I would not call you haunil, Romulus. That is a word reserved for wolves who are clanless and unloved, cast out of their tribe and Otahera’s grace. So while you may be without a clan, I think it is a stretch to say you are unloved.”

Vyrli glanced over at Teklara as he said this, missing the quick flinch that passed over Romulus’ features. The roan wolf offered the broth to his mate-to-be. His uneasy stomach settled under her smile. He was quick to be unsure around Gannon – Thallek’s son was well-known in the keep and surrounding clans for his charm and easy bearing.

Evaria twisted an ear in Romulus’ direction and murmured her agreement during Vyrli’s statement, but her eyes remained on Petra and Zill. She was a dedicated huntress, cleaving to the tradition of the clans despite the generations her family had spent in the stone keep. Like many children of alphas, Evaria had received the necessary training in clan rituals to ensure she could succeed in her father’s rule if it ever became necessary. She, too, stayed with her mother’s clan during part of the year, but Thallek had been keen to keep his children in Lehvalek this time, echoing again and again that there was an important reason for their presence. Evaria still had no idea of her father’s plans, but he seemed deeply pleased with himself, more so now than ever. The two newcomers are the cause of it. He has talked of nothing else. She tried to discern what it was Thallek was seeing by studying the Ney’Kaloan and the Zjolan, but the political intricacies of her father’s venture with the guilds and the lesser clans escaped her. Romulus will tell me, later.

Zill followed Vyrli’s example and served himself a portion of the stew the roan wolf was enjoying. It smelled both like and different from his mother’s cooking, and the grey wolf was eager to sample the feast Thallek had set down for them. As a healer, he had been trained to appreciate the nuance in taste and effect of herbs and spices. The stew broth was rich and subtly spicy, flavoured with herbs he could not recognize.

“Some of the food is made from herbs and spices we trade for with the guilds,” Thallek said. Zill blinked at the old wolf, shocked that his thoughts were so easily parsed. Thallek continued, “Many have medicinal purposes that would be of great use to Avali’s Children.”

The grey wolf shifted in his chair. “The herbs and spices we find here do well for us...but it is also true that we must toil greatly to harvest them.”

“The guilds would offer a substantial ratio in your favour because Talosi herbs and spices are so rare,” Romulus murmured, taking a sip of ice wine from a crystal goblet.

“What would they be used for?” Zill asked. Romulus shrugged.

“For spice, mostly. The herbal blends you use to treat coughs and lung ailments would also be used. I will admit that what the trade guilds do with the Talosi imports has not been fully explained to me. In the south, the trade guilds deal with the merchant guilds, and so on. Likely the herbs would exchange hands many times.”

“Please, cease talking of the guilds until we have enjoyed our meal,” Thallek rumbled, fixing Romulus with a hard stare. He turned toward Petra. “Tell me, daughter, what of your parents? I have only had occasion to meet Oonah and Ahmaer once. How fare the clans in your corner of the Talosi?”

ooc: hope that's okay and i hope you recover soon. *hugs*

[Aryela Jade Secray]

“You can see that Petra has inherited Ahmaer’s wisdom. And her mother’s beauty.”

“How do you know it is not the other way around? Well met, Gannon – do not put Petra off her meal, now.”

"Ah, now, sister, I do not intend to ruin dear Petra's appetite. The cooks have done such a wonderful job of putting together this feast. It would be a shame to let it go to waste." He smiled charmingly at his sister then leaned back happily in his chair. One ear twitched towards Romulus as he spoke of Vyrli's threats. Thallek's son laughed merrily and shook his head. Gannon, because of his size and strength, was rarely intimidated by other wolves, but Vyrli had certainly unnerved him with his...descriptive threats. In truth, he had known that Teklara and Vyrli were betrothed, but he had not realized that the scholar would take such an affront to Gannon kissing the she-wolf's paw. Teklara, to her credit, had treated the situation with humor and pulled her mate back before he could ruin diplomatic relationships between his clan and Thallek's by shoving Gannon's head up his arse.

Gannon had been more than amused by Vyrli's anger, and he certainly didn't miss the warning look in Petra's eyes, or the expression on Zill's face for that matter. There were male wolves who were privy to trying to court every female in sight. Gannon, on the other hand, was one of the harmless males who would charm she-wolves, but would not do anything to take advantage of them, or hurt their relationships with their mates. He would treat them with brotherly love more than anything, although his presentation to Petra had been a bit more drawn out, simply because he knew he was going to have to woo her, should she accept his father's proposition.

He grinned at the she-wolf again, and Petra returned a tight smile before picking up a water goblet. She took a sip and shifted her attention to Evaria and her comment about her parents. A thankful smile crossed her face and she tipped her head to the she-wolf. She was tired of other wolves always thinking that her father was the brains to the tribe and her mother the beauty. They ruled it together, and while Oonah was quite lovely when she wanted to be, she had wisdom far beyond her years.

Longing crept into Petra's eyes, and she glanced at a nearby window, wondering how her parents were faring. She wasn't used to being away from them. It made her even more thankful to have Zill at her side. Unconsciously, she shifted a little closer to him and turned her attention back to the conversation.

“You are well met, Gannon of Lehvalek."

"Thank you, brother Zill," Gannon replied with a tip of his head. He dropped his head onto a paw and glanced between his father and Romulus curiously as the conversation went on. Petra and Teklara listened as well, both intrigued by Romulus' description of the northern clans. Petra's gaze settled on him much longer now, and she found herself smiling a bit. Respect built within her for the southern wolf who had so closely studied their world...their society. He surely had much still left to learn, but it would not surprise Petra to find him accepted by a she-wolf of the north within the next year or so.

“I would not call you haunil, Romulus. That is a word reserved for wolves who are clanless and unloved, cast out of their tribe and Otahera’s grace. So while you may be without a clan, I think it is a stretch to say you are unloved.”

Teklara nodded her thanks as she took the broth and added it to her bowl, along with a fresh chunk of bread. She handed it off to Petra who filled her dish, though not without giving comment to Vyrli's reply.

"I must agree, Romulus....southern-brother," she added with a kind smile. "Haunil...it's a name my tribe has used before for a traitor or a deserter of our ways and the ways of Otahera. If you were haunil, you would certainly not be seated in Thallek's great presence," she tipped her head politely to the governing wolf. "Nor would you be allowed to speak to the Lady Evaria or Lord Gannon." She leaned back and patted Zill's shoulder softly. "And you most certainly would not find favor from the heirs of the Ney'Kalo or the Zjolan. No, Romulus. You are not haunil. Hm...Balmur perhaps. That means clanless as well, but beloved by Otahera."

Her smile was warm, causing Teklara to chuckle. "Well-spoken sister, and beloved," she added, nuzzling Vyrli on the cheek. She squeezed his paw adoringly before taking a nibble of her meal. Teklara enjoyed Thallek's feasts, partially because of the food, and partially because of the mood. There was another gift that the Mezaric wolves possessed. They were not always physical healers, but rather mental healers. Mezaric wolves were expected to present a very calm aura in the presence of other wolves. It was always a good idea to have one at a diplomatic meeting to call the peace if necessary. Teklara had stopped several fights before while sitting at Vyrli's side, though few, except her mate, really realized her "powers" over a terse situation. She was the calm in the storm, the anchor for the ship on the waves.

Petra took a bite of the soup after passing the bowl off to Zill. The spices caused her to arch an eyebrow with delight, and she took another larger bite, the smile growing on her face. What a divine meal! She would have to get the recipe, or at least encourage her mother to purchase some of the herbs. She dipped a piece of bread into the broth and chewed it slowly, her eyes closing in delight. Her ears twitched towards Romulus and Zill as they spoke of the exchange of herbs, but for the most part, she concentrated on her meal, at least until Thallek called a halt to the conversation.

“Please, cease talking of the guilds until we have enjoyed our meal. Tell me, daughter, what of your parents? I have only had occasion to meet Oonah and Ahmaer once. How fare the clans in your corner of the Talosi?”

Petra opened her bright eyes to peer at Thallek, and she grinned. "Quite well, my lord," she said as she cleaned her muzzle with a cloth. "The Ney'Kalo is growing stronger with each new season, not that you should fear a threat from us," she added with a chuckle. "Wayward wolves have found their way to our tribe and have happily joined under my mother and father's rule. They see my mother...hm, as a beacon of hope, I suppose. She rules with a kind yet firm paw, and my father presents even more strength. We...not that I wish to open up more discussion with trade...have managed to start trading with other clans like the Mezaric." Teklara tilted her head politely, and Petra went on. "The Zjolan, as well as the Ku'lahru clan which resides a bit east to us. The Ku'lahru is still trying to grow after...the war that occurred what seems like ages ago. They've met with some...problems with other clans."

Petra hesitated and fell silent, not wanting to disrupt the pleasant dinner. Teklara, on the other hand, was interested, and a bit concerned with Petra's hesitation. She reached across the table and touched the she-wolf's paw gently. "Sister? You have concerns?"

Petra bit her lip and was surprised when Gannon spoke up next. "You should speak them, Petra. We're all friends here, and we're trying to help affairs with the Talosi clans, right father?" He looked to Thallek imploringly then shifted his gaze back to Petra.

The she-wolf shot Zill a look then breathed out slowly. "Some of our clans and tribes have met resistance and threats. Some clans are afraid to trade with us because they may be marked and attacked next. Zill and I...we met some opposition on our way here, and I only think it fair that you know, lord, so that it does not happen to your kin."

"What opposition?" Gannon prompted.

Petra lowered her eyes and dropped her paw away from her meal. I shouldn't be telling them this now, but Gannon wants to know and Thallek...well, he should be aware. I should have told them from the start. It's my duty to keep the clans safe. "Our supplies were tampered with one evening on our way here and...crude marks were left on our belongings. This morning, as we reached Lehvalek, two flaming arrows landed before us." She hesitated and actually reached for Zill's paw under the table. She needed his stability. The sight of their burning banners had left a raw scar on her heart that might ooze at any moment. "Our banners were bound to them."

Teklara drew in a breath and Gannon narrowed his eyes. Even he knew how terrible it was to burn a tribal or clan banner. How horrible! He leaned back in his chair and crossed his arms. "Why did you not tell us upon your arrival?"

Petra shook her head. "I did not know when would be the best time. I did not want to remain silent about it for much longer, though. It is your right to know, Lord Thallek. I would not want harm to come to Lehvalek simply because I remained silent."

Petra grew quiet and stirred her spoon in her broth slowly. Teklara could sense the she-wolf's sorrow, as well as the tension that was starting to build. The Mezaric wolf bit her lip then reached over again and once more clasped Petra's paw.

"My sister, for every banner they might burn, Otahera will bestow ten blessings upon your tribe. Their goal is to hurt you, but the great spirits will protect you and aid you. Find peace in this."

Petra's eyes glimmered with gratitude and she nodded her head in thanks before turning her eyes to Thallek. "I do apologize, my lord. It was not my intention to bring bitter thoughts to such a wonderful meal."

Ooc: Hope that works

[Bowen Lark]

Gannon’s considerable charm fell flat in front of Zill. The grey wolf kept his gaze blank and a bland, lopsided smile on his maw. He was confused by the other wolf’s demeanour – was it guile or sincere? Vyrli’s experience indicated that Gannon was just playing with his new southern manners, but Zill had no use for excessive charisma. Why would you? The black thought slipped into his head, shadowing the wolf’s mood. You’ve got all the charm of a reindeer in labour. He reached for a goblet of spiced ale and downed the sharp, fragrant liquor in two gulps. Otahera let this meeting go favourably, Zill thought, licking away an errant drop from the corner of his mouth. The twinge in his gut had not abated yet.

Vyrli remained red in the ears. He offered Gannon a contrite grimace, ashamed again that his temper had tramped down his reason. It had amused Thallek to no end, who had admitted doing similar when he was first courting his mate. Still, the roan wolf had locked himself in the library for nearly a month after the incident, too embarrassed to show himself except at council meetings.

“Praise Oran that Gannon is a forgiving soul,” the roan wolf said after the laughter had quieted. He let go a small smile. “Before I had the sense clouted back into me.”

Evaria glanced over at the roan wolf and tipped her muzzle in understanding. Her brother was...effusive in his mannerisms, and had presence enough to overpower quieter wolves like Vyrli. His charm had been taken poorly by others before too. A wry smirk crossed the she-wolf’s mouth and her eyes narrowed on her brother. He knows what Father is up to. It didn’t seem fair for Thallek to divulge his plans to only one of his children. Evaria looked at Petra and returned the other wolf’s smile. She sensed a kindred soul there in the white she-wolf, someone to go hunting with, to discuss the intricacies of being a female heir. Evaria knew she was fortunate to have been born a Vraenar, but she yearned for company, for the camaraderie of a friend not caught up in southern fashions and courtship. The delicate nature of royal life bored her.

"I must agree, Romulus....southern-brother. Haunil...it's a name my tribe has used before for a traitor or a deserter of our ways and the ways of Otahera. If you were haunil, you would certainly not be seated in Thallek's great presence. Nor would you be allowed to speak to the Lady Evaria or Lord Gannon. And you most certainly would not find favor from the heirs of the Ney'Kalo or the Zjolan. No, Romulus. You are not haunil. Hm...Balmur perhaps. That means clanless as well, but beloved by Otahera."

The dark wolf tipped his head toward Petra, grateful for the new she-wolf’s kindness.

“Balmur, then,” he said.

Thallek nodded. “Petra speaks wisely, friend. You are dear to me and my kin here in Lehvalek, whatever the location of your birth. I see more of our northern values in you than I did in those banished from these walls. Please, do not feel as though you are still a stranger. You must know I would welcome you here as one my own, if you chose it.”

Romulus’ mouth opened and closed. He let out a short breath and dropped his chin. “Many thanks for your generosity, Thallek,” he said.
Inside his chest, a roil of guilt flashed cold. Romulus felt terrible keeping secrets from the old wolf. Each of Thallek’s kind gestures felt like a cut. How can I skulk around like a thief before the wolf who has brought me into his home? The dark wolf glanced at Thallek, whose face was placid and warm. He felt another stare on him, pressing into his neck, but did not look aside to meet its owner’s eyes. Not yet. Not now.

Zill sampled the food as the others made conversation. Vyrli provided commentary for a few of the dishes and Romulus cut in to describe the one southern dish present on the table, a spicy roast bird served with thin gravy. He ate in silence, passive as the conversation drifted between the others. Evaria too seemed content to listen – every so often she caught his eye and rolled hers slightly, clearing unsatisfied with the topics being discussed. Zill sensed that the pale she-wolf preferred doing things as opposed to talking about them.

He poured water into his glass and sipped while Petra described the happenings going on with the Ney’Kalo. His hand tightened on the glass as she began to describe the grim shadow tailing the end of their new prosperity.

"Some of our clans and tribes have met resistance and threats. Some clans are afraid to trade with us because they may be marked and attacked next. Zill and I...we met some opposition on our way here, and I only think it fair that you know, lord, so that it does not happen to your kin."

Zill met Petra’s eyes and swallowed. He nodded for her to go on. They should know what goes on outside these walls.

"Our supplies were tampered with one evening on our way here and...crude marks were left on our belongings. This morning, as we reached Lehvalek, two flaming arrows landed before us. Our banners were bound to them."

"Why did you not tell us upon your arrival?"

The grey wolf clasped her hand in his and squeezed it gently. He frowned at Gannon’s question and spoke, voice darkening to an icy rumble.

“Unfortunately we are used to such harassment from other clans. The bitterness in their blood remains sharp even now.”

"I did not know when would be the best time. I did not want to remain silent about it for much longer, though. It is your right to know, Lord Thallek. I would not want harm to come to Lehvalek simply because I remained silent."

Thallek ran a hand through his grey beard and smiled sadly at Petra.
“You did as you thought best, daughter. I do not blame you for your silence upon arriving – who could you trust to tell a thing like that? Pardon, Vyrli,” the old wolf raised a hand at his councillor’s outraged look. “Absolutely the negotiations must continue, with expediency. And then once we have completed them, well...” his teeth flashed in an angry grin. “I daresay Suidon Grayclaw is the shadow behind this.”

Romulus let out a low growl. His interactions with Suidon had been a dance of barely restrained violence. Something in the banished wolf’s manner was so cold and vicious – he had as little use for a southern interloper as he did for the lesser clans, and he had made no secret of it.

"I do apologize, my lord. It was not my intention to bring bitter thoughts to such a wonderful meal."

Thallek waved a hand. “You brought nothing but happiness with your presence, daughter. Although I am afraid we must now turn to the matter of these trade negotiations. Better to have them settled immediately, I think.”

Other wolves appeared to remove the food plates from the table. In a matter of moments, the dishes had been replaced by simple tea mugs and several jugs of different kinds of tea and cider. Thallek laid his hands on the table and looked from Romulus to Petra.

“You may as well begin, Romulus.”

The dark wolf nodded. “It is the guild’s intention to offer you the same deal as it offered Thallek.” He looked at Petra and Zill. “A mutual obligation of product – I have letters detailing what the guild is willing to trade and for what exchange. Since Lehvalek is the location of what we are now terming the Talosi Guild, your clans will be responsible for delivering or establishing a method of transport to the keep. The guild’s payment will also be delivered here for pickup.

“I know it sounds very simple, but the guild I represent is one of the most powerful in the south. Should you ever decide to travel to those lands, you will receive housing, funds, and protection in accordance with guild policies, as well as the status of an established guild member, which is quite influential. As far as what you will see here, your clans will now be able to procure foodstuffs, supplies, weaponry, even gold and silver. What the guild desires is what you harvest naturally – primarily herbs, stone, and gems. The guild does not ask for all – the proposed quotas are already in the contracts, for you to read later on.”

Thallek smiled as Romulus finished. “You see, my children, a trade agreement with the southern guilds gives the Talosi a chance to thrive. We have existed here for so long on our own, and we are good at it, but the world is changing, and quickly. By trading, we have the chance to enjoy some of the south’s considerable fortune while remaining relatively unchanged.”

Zill felt uneasy. “We have always managed to survive, Lord Thallek. How would trade benefit that?”

The old wolf nodded. “I wondered too, Zill. The guild offers food, drink, medicine, books. We have traded stone for food enough to fill our winter stores, so we did not have to hunt. And because we did not hunt, the herds regained numbers. And in the following year when we did hunt, we traded for books to fill the library and expand our knowledge. I know well that we are bartering for things that the south finds inconsequential, but there is a deep worth in easing some of the hardship of our life here.”

He coughed. “To that end, I have my own offer to present to the Ney’Kalo, an additional enticement and message of a long lasting and mutually prosperous relationship. Petra, daughter, when you return to your family, bring them this message: to further strengthen the alliance between our clans, I present a betrothal of my son and daughter to you and your brother. We would be united as family.”

Zill blinked, his mouth suddenly dry. His eyes raced between Gannon, Thallek, and Petra. Across the table, Evaria struggled to keep her face blank against the mounting outrage building in her chest. Her voice was strained.

“You mean to ensure the outcome of this negotiation by marrying us off, Father?”

Thallek frowned at his daughter. “Betrothals are a common way of building and maintaining relations between clans, Evaria. This is a new alliance we embark on, and it is fit that I show my appreciation by offering what is dearest to me.”

Romulus looked stunned, his green eyes wide and blank. He licked his lips and sat back in the chair, trying to slow the thundering pace of his heart.

Vylri cocked his head at the silence. “Well, let me be the first to offer my congratulations. I think Petra and Gannon would make a fine pair. Their marriage, and yours, Evaria, would change Talosi history.”

[Aryela Jade Secray]

“You did as you thought best, daughter. I do not blame you for your silence upon arriving – who could you trust to tell a thing like that? Pardon, Vyrli. Absolutely the negotiations must continue, with expediency. And then once we have completed them, well...I daresay Suidon Grayclaw is the shadow behind this.”

The shadow of a smile crossed Petra's muzzle as she heard the vehemence in Thallek's voice. She had never had the misfortune of meeting the Suidon, and after seeing the books in the library, and noting the anger on her lord Thallek's face, she realized she would be very happy never to stand in his presence. His vicious reputation preceded him, and the more she heard of him, the more Petra's fur bristled at his name. It would not surprise her in the least if Suidon was behind the attacks, nor would it be unexpected if she and Zill received threats on their way home. We're already lucky that those...monsters did not try to murder us. That would have been a fine way to end negotiations, but my parents would have gone to war over it, and no doubt Zill's family would have felt similarly. Perhaps that is why mother and father sent me instead of another wolf. The death of a council member brings rage; the death of the daughter of the Alphas brings war. I'm more of a bargaining chip than I thought.

Petra was slightly resentful as she thought of her parents' reasons for sending her. They knew she'd meet opposition. They knew she might be in danger...but that was why Zill was here, wasn't it? If she went missing, it would be difficult to tag anyone with her disappearance or death. If both a Ney'Kalo and a Zjolan vanished, well, it was clear there was foul play involved. Petra frowned and glanced at Zill sadly. They knew he would be at risk as well. By Otahera, sometimes I wish Mysin was still the heir...

The she-wolf shifted uncomfortably and watched as the plates were cleared from the table. Her gaze swept to Evaria now and again, and she found strength in the other she-heir. She would understand some of what Petra was feeling, as would Zill. Much more was expected of them because of their parents. At least they were still alive...that much Petra was grateful for.

Teklara watched in silence as the tension began to build. The attacks were certainly not welcome, but Teklara wasn't surprised. Her own clan had been threatened in the past year, and Teklara was still amazed she had arrived at Lehvalek in one piece. She was not much of a fighter, and it would have been easy to get rid of her, but what would that have accomplished? She wasn't an heir like Petra, Zill, Gannon, and Evaria. She was just another member of the clan, and Vyrli was most likely no threat to these wolves, so why should they be afraid?

The she-wolf leaned over and rubbed her mate's paw softly, trying to bring around an air of calm to the rather restless wolves. Petra seemed to feel it before long, and her shoulders relaxed a tiny bit. Her paw remained in Zill's for a long time, seeking comfort after revealing the hardships of their journey. Finally, when she felt she was in control of herself again, she let the paw drop, but not without sending him a look of thanks. They worked very well together. Not for the first time she was glad her parents had encouraged his parents to send him along.

“You may as well begin, Romulus.”

Petra settled back to listen as Romulus laid out the guild's intention for trade. Since she had sat with her parents during several negotiations before (unlike her brother), she felt rather relaxed by hearing the terms. Already her brain was pondering the pros and cons to the offer. She would not be able to decide anything until she saw what the guild wanted her tribe to pay, but she listened and nodded now and again, appearing to play the role of the good listener, and masking the role of the fierce negotiator. Petra had learned one or two things from Oonah when it came to these sort of meetings. It was best to show them exactly what they wanted with body language, then surprise them with loopholes in their promises. They would not expect it, and it would give Petra the upperpaw, not that she had any reason to doubt Romulus and Thallek. The problem was, while she liked and approved of both wolves, she would not allow that to force her into a preemptive decision that would bring bad fortune to the Ney’Kalo. If she had to call Thallek an "air-headed fool who doesn't know the first thing about trading," then she would, if only to protect her tribe.

Fortunately, she didn't think those words would be necessary. The offer was sound, and while it did indeed seem rather simple, Petra was impressed by what the Ney'Kalo would receive by traveling south. None of their wolves would have to worry about being threatened or finding a place to lay their head. There would be a certain amount of immunity, though at the same time, our wolves might be in even more danger if the banished clans realize what we're being offered. Heh, with my luck, mother will send me as the ambassador if only because she knows I can stand on my feet.

Petra cocked her head to the side when Thallek mentioned how trade would allow the Talosi clans to thrive, and she had to agree with Zill.

“We have always managed to survive, Lord Thallek. How would trade benefit that?”

He's right. This will benefit the southern guild more than us...initially. But there seem to be things that this guild can provide for us when our stores our low.

She was pleasantly satisfied when Thallek mentioned the food, drink, medicine, and books. Books the tribe could survive without, but food and medicine would certainly come in handy when the seasons were long and prey scarce. Good wolves had perished before because the elk or deer populations were low. If they could be assured that they would receive food when needed, then it would be a wise connection to make. The trouble is, mother has told me of other clans who have agreed to trade with guilds, and instead of healthy food, they received moldy bread or meat filled with maggots, too inedible for even the peasants to eat. I won't allow the Ney'Kalo to be trapped in that sort of trade while the guild reaps the benefits. Romulus seems very nice, but he does not represent the actions of the guild.

Petra rubbed her chin thoughtfully and shared a private glance with Zill. It clearly said, "We will need to discuss this tonight." She would not promise anything to Romulus until she spoke with Zill, as well as her parents, and she had a feeling they would have a lot to talk about tonight.

Unfortunately, Petra was in for a huge shock. She thought the trading would be difficult to deal with, never mind what Thallek had up his sleeve.

The moment Thallek turned to his proposition, Gannon's face lit up, and he looked at Petra expectantly. He was hoping that this would go over well with her, because he was certainly ready to have a mate, especially if it meant that it would help with building the connections between his father and the other clans and tribes. He had already spoken with his father about the possibility of marrying Petra, and he was certainly all for it. He expected Evaria to respond in kind, but just like Petra, he was in for a surprise himself.

“To that end, I have my own offer to present to the Ney’Kalo, an additional enticement and message of a long lasting and mutually prosperous relationship. Petra, daughter, when you return to your family, bring them this message: to further strengthen the alliance between our clans, I present a betrothal of my son and daughter to you and your brother. We would be united as family.”

There were three rather different reactions from Gannon, Teklara, and Petra. Gannon, of course, smiled like a fool when his father announced the proposal. He turned to Petra, his eyes twinkling, almost expecting her to jump from the table out of joy, if only because her tribe would benefit from the marriage. He did not expect Petra to love him right away, but he was willing to spend the rest of his life earning her love.

Teklara's eyes grew a bit wide, and she glanced at Thallek out of the corner of her eye. She had been aware that he was going to offer Gannon to Petra, but she had not known that Evaria would be part of the deal as well. Oh dear Lady, I would have warned her had I known. The poor, lass...well...both of them. Teklara had noticed the glimmer in Zill's and Romulus' eyes, and her stomach suddenly twisted at the idea that both males' hearts would be broken, not to mention Petra and Evaria would be bound to marriages that neither of them wanted. Suddenly, Teklara wasn't able to create the calm atmosphere because her own nerves were unsteady. She had been lucky to find Vyrli, but she did not think that would be the case for Petra and Evaria. The she-wolf glanced at her mate and fought to keep the frown from her face.

To Petra's credit, she did not even bat an eyelash when she heard Thallek's proposal. Part of it was due to pure and utter shock. How could she react to something like that? She had come here to speak about trading herbs and stones...not trading herself! She sat back calmly in the chair, her paws folded beneath the table, where they shook despite her relaxed demeanor.

Do my parents know? No...They would have warned me at least, or warned Thallek not to offer Evaria to my brother! By Otahera, this is madness!

She couldn't tell if she was more appalled at the idea of marrying Gannon, or if the very thought of Evaria becoming Mysin's mate sent her stomach reeling. Her mouth grew dry, and her heart pounded violently, but she did not shake the calmness from her face. She may have even looked like she had expected it, and was accepting it. Inwardly, she was fighting for a way to bide her time so she would not have to give a response. The look on Evaria's face broke her heart. Oh sister, I would help you run away myself before I'd see you with my brother. I know your heart would not belong to him, but he would force your body to be his. If I can only save one of us from this fate, then I will do my best to save you.

Gods, the thought of Mysin taking Evaria as a mate...oh, it sent a chill down Petra's spine. No, her parents couldn't know or else they would have warned Thallek against it.

“Betrothals are a common way of building and maintaining relations between clans, Evaria. This is a new alliance we embark on, and it is fit that I show my appreciation by offering what is dearest to me.”

“Well, let me be the first to offer my congratulations. I think Petra and Gannon would make a fine pair. Their marriage, and yours, Evaria, would change Talosi history.”

"Indeed it would," Teklara added quietly, though her heart was certainly not into her speech. "Congratulations..." Her voice was a bit lifeless, and she wanted to excuse herself from the table, but she fought against it. Instead, her paw went to Vyrli's, and she touched his shoulder with her nose, seeking comfort. Thank the spirits that we are a match.

Gannon continued to stare eagerly at Petra. He was a bit stunned that Evaria seemed angry at their father's offer. It was an honor to continue Thallek's line and to make such a sacrifice for the good of the clans and tribes. "What say you, Lady Petra?" he asked softly.

In that moment, Petra wanted nothing more than to punch Gannon in his stupid smiling face. Lady Petra indeed; I am no Lady to you, nor will I be anyone's Lady! Rage ignited, but she pushed it down harshly knowing that it would not help matters at all. Petra swallowed hard then looked to Romulus.

"First, I would like to address Romulus since you have both presented me with favorable offers." Favorable indeed. "Romulus, the offer of trade is sound, however, I cannot make any promises until I have seen what the guild wishes to collect from my tribe, and until I present these terms to my parents. I have a few questions, though." She shifted in the chair, trying to control her anxiety. "First, I know the guild will expect certain kinds of trade from us that may involve planting or...things that may be out of our control. If we are unable to deliver the specified items to the guild due to bad weather, drought, or lack of materials, will my tribe be taxed for this, or will we simple not receive what we have requested?

“Second, if we receive items from the guild that are not to our satisfaction, how shall we be compensated? My parents will not take kindly to receiving tattered books, weak herbs, spoiled food, and so on and so forth, if we deliver pristine items." She held up a paw to stem any indignant remarks. "I do not know your guild as you do, Romulus, so I ask you not to take offense to my question. There have been other guilds that have not lived up to their terms, and I will not allow my tribe to fall victim."

She leaned back slightly, finding more ground now that she was focusing just on Romulus, and not on Gannon, Thallek, or Evaria. "Third, if we begin trading with the south, there is the possibility that we risk losing our land and our materials to southern clans or tribes. How long before other tribes try to move into our territory because they have heard of our supplies? Will the guild protect us then, or will we be left to defend our own territory? Will the guild try to tax us for living on the land? I fear the hidden expenses that may occur, Romulus, and I'm certain my parents may feel the same."

Petra left the conversation at that, and she felt a bit proud of herself for her questions. Teklara even looked impressed, though Petra did her best to ignore her. Oonah had trained Petra well, and the she-wolf could only imagine how Mysin would have found a way to screw up the negotiations. He would have jumped in feet first without even looking at what the guild expected from the Ney'Kalo. Idiot...

"To your generous offer, lord Thallek, I...." And here Petra stumbled. She could feel her cheeks burning beneath the fur. Her gaze swept to Evaria, to her angry and stunned expression. She eyed Zill passively, and she had noticed Romulus' expression even as she spoke. Part of the reason she had addressed him first was so she could hopefully pull him out of his own shock before Thallek noticed it. Petra drew in a breath and forced a small smile on her face.

"Your offer is extremely generous, Lord Thallek, and I am quite certain my parents will be pleased to hear of it. I...hope you will not take offense when I ask for a night to consider your terms. Bringing your brood and my tribe together is a very wise idea, and I wish to be a part of it, but I would still like a night to consider."

"Of course," Gannon said, though Petra could hear a tiny bit of disappointment in his voice. If he expected me to fly into his arms like some ninny, he's sorely mistaken. "I know this is a bit much to take in, Petra."

"Like Romulus' offer, it's something I must consider to ensure it is for the good of my tribe," Petra explained and tipped her head politely to Gannon. She considered her next words carefully and spoke again. "As to offering Evaria to my brother Mysin, that may be a little more difficult, my lord. My parents have been looking to build stronger relationships with other clans, and they have been searching for a potential mate for Mysin." Not exactly the truth since her parents had stopped looking about a year ago when he had disgraced one of the clans, but Thallek didn't need to know that. "I think they would think it a bit more beneficial for the Ney'Kalo if they brought your clan and mine together with one marriage, then allowed Mysin to marry to another clan so that we would all be family together." Petra forced a bigger smile as she held out her paws to Thallek. "My lord, it would benefit all of us. Not only would you be family with the Ney'Kalo, you would also find family with whatever clan Mysin was to be promised."

There, sister, perhaps you will have a better chance than I will, Petra thought silently as she sent an understanding look to Evaria. The more she spoke, the more Petra realized she was sealing her own fate. If Mysin could not marry Evaria, then Petra would have to be the one to bring the Ney'Kalo and Thallek's family together.

Petra felt sick. She had expected to come away from this bearing trading terms...not a ring. Otahera, please let him give me the night to decide. I...I can't do this right now, not with Zill sitting next to me. Why it should matter where Zill was, Petra didn't know...but at that moment, it meant all the world to her. She wanted nothing more than to escape into a room where she could cry and rave at Zill for this unexpected surprise. She needed her friend more than ever…Beneath the table, her paw met his again…cold…and trembling.

[Bowen Lark]

Thallek seemed oblivious to the devastation his offer had wrought. He ignored the scathing look on Evaria’s face and beamed at Gannon’s enthusiasm. The pale she-wolf’s mouth twitched with the effort of holding back a torrent of curses – those she would save for her father, later on in private. How could he sell his children off like satchels of grain? No wonder he insisted Mother go to her people. She never would have agreed to this. There’ll be blood when she returns. Still smarting with indignation, Evaria turned away from the others at the table and padded to the nearest window. She heard her father cough and knew there was disapproval behind it – she was breaking decorum, striding away from the table. Gods, let him sulk about my manners. He may as well have just sold me. Tears stung her eyes suddenly, and Evaria kept her gaze to the window to prevent the others from seeing them.

Romulus turned back to Petra, his gaze dull. He listened to her concerns without saying anything, only nodding absently while the she-wolf listed her clarifications. The dark wolf brought a hand to his temple and closed his eyes for a moment, trying to reconnect with his true business in Lehvalek. After a breath he offered Petra a tight smile and put his hands on the table.

“The guild is absolutely in agreement that your family must read the proposed trade for themselves. While you hold power as their representative, for the sake of the contract, the guild insists on having your parents – both of yours – look over the papers and sign them before witnesses, of whom I will be one.

“Now, as for circumstances out of your control... Obviously you cannot control for weather and outside forces, but the guild expects frequent reports on the collection of the proposed quotas. You will also receive reports for your payment, per guild standards. If it comes down to the quotas not being met, there are ways around it: you can increase the ratio of a different quota by an agreed upon amount or you can wait until you have met the quota for the original product and add an additional amount in interest. You will always receive what you have requested, unless the trade agreement is violated in a substantial way. The guild does not expect the clans to work magic over the land – there have been times in the south when things go poorly too. It happens.”

Romulus levelled his gaze with Petra’s, his mouth drawn into an austere line. “As long as I have worked for this merchant guild, I have never witnessed, nor received word of spoiled payments. I understand your concern, of course, as does the guild. If ever you or the clans are concerned about the quality of what you receive, please send a letter to me. The guild does not intend to burn bridges – what you receive will be of the quality that Lehvalek receives. To the guild, there are no higher or lesser clans. You are all Talosi.”

"Third, if we begin trading with the south, there is the possibility that we risk losing our land and our materials to southern clans or tribes. How long before other tribes try to move into our territory because they have heard of our supplies? Will the guild protect us then, or will we be left to defend our own territory? Will the guild try to tax us for living on the land? I fear the hidden expenses that may occur, Romulus, and I'm certain my parents may feel the same."

Romulus opened his mouth to reply, but Thallek’s deep voice broke across the table.

“That will never happen, Petra,” he rumbled, leaning forward. “Once you have a part of this trade, your clan will share both the responsibilities and the privileges that my own do. And if you and your brother marry my children, we will be family. We will protect you.”

Romulus cleared his throat. His voice sounded strained. “The guild has no interest in usurping your land or taxing you for living on it. Frankly, the Talosi tundra would be nearly inhospitable to most of the southern population. Your territory is your own, the guild only desires a mutual exchange of product. If you should ever come under attack, the guild will do what it can to protect you, as a means of protecting its own interests.” He smiled slightly. “The guild is not an army, but it does employ the services of mercenaries when the need arises.”

The dark wolf let out a breath, glad to have guild business as a reprieve from the shock of Thallek’s offer. Evaria... Fates, what the hell am I doing?

"To your generous offer, lord Thallek, I...."

Tension flooded Zill’s shoulders. He straightened in his chair. He looked ahead and found Evaria turned around, her gaze on Petra. Was this happening?

"Your offer is extremely generous, Lord Thallek, and I am quite certain my parents will be pleased to hear of it. I...hope you will not take offense when I ask for a night to consider your terms. Bringing your brood and my tribe together is a very wise idea, and I wish to be a part of it, but I would still like a night to consider."

Zill let out a breath he had been holding. Evaria shot the other she-wolf a grateful glance, her shoulders easing. Thallek frowned for a breath, and then nodded.

“Of course. And we will need your parents’ approval as well. I know this is a surprise, but I wish to show you the depth of my sincerity for a future of mutual happiness and prosperity between our clans.”

Evaria bit back a growl, her ears falling flat against her head. She shot Gannon a dark look, irritated by his unbridled enthusiasm. She surveyed the expressions on the faces of the other wolves – Zill’s mouth drawn into a taut line, Vyrli’s furrowed brow, and Romulus’ downcast eyes. Not much of a celebration now.

Evaria took a deep breath. “I think we should take the next few hours to dwell on these new...horizons. I imagine Petra wants to look over the documents from the guild.” Her eyes moved to the other she-wolf. “And if it suits, I’d like to join them so Petra can describe her brother to me.”

Thallek smiled. “A wonderful idea. Vyrli, please escort Zill to his quarters. Gannon and I will retire to compose a letter of betrothal to Petra’s parents, to be sent out on the morrow.”

ooc: closer and closer to mayhem, mwaha. hope that works. if you want to auto evaria and romulus to the library, feel free!

[Aryela Jade Secray]

The spirits are laughing at us...or else they have plans that we're not aware of...Petra thought to herself as she watched the gathered wolves start to disperse. She did not miss Gannon's joyful smile when he looked back at her, and she certainly didn't miss the downcast look in Zill's eyes as he was shuffled out of the room by Vyrli. I want to go with him. I don't know if I'll be able to prevent my mask from slipping, especially if Evaria asks me about my brother. Oh, poor dear. I have to find a way to stop her marriage to my Mysin. Gannon seems...kind enough. I'm sure we could have a...tolerable mateship, but I would not wish Mysin on anyone.

Petra shook her head slowly and pressed one paw against the table for stability. The other went to the dagger on her hip...the blessed blade her mother had given her to help make this a safe journey. Safe for the body, perhaps, but not for the mind or heart. Did you both know? Would you force me to do this? She knew the answer to that. Her parents would only want to give one child to Thallek. The other, they would wish to leave free to marry of another clan or pack. I'll be damned if I have us marry into Thallek's family through Mysin, only to have my brother ruin it because of something he did to Evaria.

"By Otahera," she mumbled to herself then glanced up as Romulus rolled out the treaty in front of her. She stood over the table with him, reading through the contract, and asking questions here and there. He had mostly calmed her concerns, but she was sure her parents would have a few more qualms about joining with the guild. She could just hear her mother grumble, "Aye, we become part of this organization, and the next thing we know they'll be forcing us to change our faith, and they'll try to civilize us!" Oonah could be very stubborn at times, a trait Petra had acquired.

The little meeting didn't seem to help either Petra or Romulus. She was distracted by Thallek's offer, and she could tell that Romulus didn't have his heart in discussing the contract. Still, it gave her something to do before she discussed the inevitable with Evaria and Zill. To her surprise, Teklara remained in the room, watching quietly as Romulus spoke with Petra. The Ney'Kalo she-wolf hadn't expected the Mezaric to stay, but she was thankful. Somehow she felt her mood would have quickly deteriorated if Teklara had not been present.

When all questions were asked and answered, Petra finally nodded and rolled up the document. "Very well. I am satisfied with the terms, but again, I must speak with my parents. Thank you for...explaining some of the customs to me, Romulus. I greatly appreciate it." She smiled slightly at him then tucked the scrolls beneath her arm.

Romulus quietly excused himself, and Evaria went to follow, but Petra held up her paw to stop the young female. She waved for Romulus to leave before she moved to the she-wolf's side and dropped her voice so that Teklara could not hear. "What I say to you...I say as a friend to a friend...not as a tribal heir to a clan heir." She sighed. "There is not much I can say about my brother that is good, I'm afraid. He's the one that is supposed to be heir to the Ney'Kalo...not me, but my parents gave me the title when he ran into some trouble with another clan. I'm certain my parents will agree to this union...but only one child will be given away." She reached out and squeezed Evaria's shoulder. "I'll...make certain that I'm the one who marries into your family, Evaria...and I'll find some way to prevent my brother from taking your hand. I hope that brings some comfort to you." She tried to smile, but it was forced. "May you find happiness," she said softly, then turned away before Evaria could respond. She didn't want to hear what the she-wolf had to say to that. Truthfully, she didn't even want to know anything about Gannon. Even if Evaria said that he had a good soul and a kind heart (which he did) it would not bring much comfort to Petra.

The she-wolf sighed and walked out of the room, leaving Teklara alone. The journey to her quarters seemed much, much longer than it should have been. She found herself looking around slowly, realizing with a stabbing pain that she would have to grow familiar to these walls. I'm sure Thallek will want me to live here with Gannon. By the fates...How can they expect me to live within this coffin? I hate it here already! She fought back a whimper and clutched her tribal necklace in one paw. This was supposed to be a simple meeting, and now I've found myself mated! Mother and father have to agree. Even I know that we can't pass up this opportunity to be one with Thallek. We'll receive protection...power, and we'll be able to bring the other clans out of hiding. Hopefully he doesn't intend an 'all-or-nothing' bargain. Otahera....make my proposal enough.

Petra fought back tears of anger and sorrow as she finally reached her door. Yet, when she grabbed the handle and turned it, she just couldn't bring herself to go inside. I have to find Zill... He was the most important wolf to her right now, and she didn't know if she wanted to scream and rave at him, or collapse in his arms and weep. He was the only one she could be around who would understand if her mask slipped off.

Biting back another whimper, she turned down a nearby hallway and went to Zill's room. She lifted one paw to knock on his door, more than ready to pour her heart out to him...but then she suddenly stopped. What do I hope to accomplish by doing this? It won't change anything, and he....I just....I can't do this to him. Petra blinked suddenly and frowned. Can't do this to him? What am I doing to him except asking for advice? That shouldn't bother him at all.... And yet she knew...knew deep down inside that if she let loose and told him how she felt about this union...other feelings would pour out...feelings that would only complicate matters. An irrational rage hit her, and she wanted to pound the door. Damn you, Mysin. If only you were a suitable mate! You could marry Evaria, and I could be free to marry of another clan, maybe even be with Zill! It wasn't an outrageous idea. It would only help build the bond between the Ney'Kalo and the Zjolan.

But she couldn't hope for that anymore, now could she? Petra groaned inwardly and rested her head against Zill's door, her heart and stomach aching. What do I say? Would you understand? Her paw fell to her side, and she did not knock. She just stood there, fighting back her tears.


****

Teklara sat silently in the main hall for nearly an hour, just taking in everything that had transpired. On the one hand, Thallek's proposal would certainly create lasting loyalty between the tribes and clans. On the other hand, it would potentially destroy four...or maybe five wolves' lives. It was no secret to Teklara that Zill and Petra had feelings for each other, and the same went for Romulus and Evaria. You could not be part of the Mezaric clan without having some sensitivity to the emotions flowing around you. Teklara had been well aware of Petra and Zill's feelings upon their arrival, and Romulus and Evaria had not been able to hide their love from Teklara. In fact, the she-wolf had allowed Romulus to confide in her once or twice, which was why she felt terrible that she had been unable to warn him about Thallek's intentions.

Gannon was the only one who would probably benefit completely from this. Teklara knew he was smitten with Petra, and he was ready to do anything possible to help the family and the other clans. He was a perfect match for any willing she-wolf, but not in this case. Petra might be happy in the end, but her heart would ache, and so would Zill's.

"Poor pups..I'm not so much older than you, and yet I feel ancient. If only I could help," she whispered. Teklara shook her head and rose slowly, her sari swishing as she moved down the long table and into the hall. She had given Evaria and Romulus enough time to talk, since she was certain that was what the pair had wandered of to do. She took a long time to walk to the library, and when she reached it, she was not surprised to find Romulus alone.

The she-wolf knocked lightly on the door then stepped inside. Without a word, she closed the door behind her then walked slowly towards him. "I'm sorry," she said gently, her paw going to his shoulder so she could try to help bring some calm to his mental storm. "If I had known Thallek's idea, I would have warned you." She tilted her head at Romulus and tried to send him a warm smile, but it was strained for even her. For the moment, she fell silent, allowing him to either pour his heart out to her, or to just take in her words without a single response.

****

It seemed the only ones joyful about the proposal were Thallek and Gannon. The young wolf had happily helped his father draft the letter to the Ney'Kalo Alphas. He did not embellish his reasons for wanting to become Petra's mate (and he emphasized that he would be her mate to give the Ney'Kalo some feeling of superiority). Instead, he spoke plainly and truthfully. He felt that this match would bring peace between some of the tribes and clans. The Ney'Kalo would find protection and power through the union, and most importantly, Gannon thought Petra to be completely brilliant, beautiful, and he would be honored to have her as a mate. He was still shocked that Evaria did not seem openly excited about the proposal. Surely she would want to do what was best for the clans!

When the letter was finished, and after Gannon had changed into something a little less formal, the young wolf walked onto the balcony that was attached to his family's entertainment room. He'd bid his father goodnight with a tight hug, and a few parting thankful words. He loved his father deeply, and the fact that he would bring honor to Thallek by marrying a wolf of the Ney'Kalo just made his heart swell.

Gannon leaned on the railing and breathed in the chilly air. He didn't mind it. His coat was thick enough, and he had a cloak on anyway to stave off some of the icy wind. He had a feeling his sister would find him there, so he had already prepared two mugs of tea which sat cooling on the railing next to him. He'd asked for the servants to make Evaria's favorite tea, knowing that she might be in a little bit of a snit fit after the meeting.

Ah, dear sister, do you not realize what an honor this is? Hopefully he would be able to talk some sense into her. He wanted to see her happy as well.

ooc: hope that works. Feel free to auto any of my characters at this point lol.

[Bowen Lark]

Zill felt as though he had swallowed winter. His insides were burned by the frost of shock, and the rest of him was numb. He went quietly to his room, uttering clipped, single-word answers to Vyrli’s comments and questions. The roan wolf seemed oblivious to what was going on. He chirped happily about the possibility of holding the mating ceremonies on the solstice and wondered aloud about Petra’s brother Mysin. When they reached the door to Zill’s room, the grey wolf dragged his gaze from the floor and levelled it at the councillor.

“Evaria would do better to spend the rest of her days alone than be wed to Mysin,” he said, voice grating. The shocked light in Vylri’s eyes was momentarily satisfying.

“How can you say that? Lord Thallek’s daughter is a credit to her family and clan.”

Zill winced. “I did not mean it as a slight to Evaria,” he said. “But her wedding Mysin would be a terrible mistake. Do not believe for a moment that Petra’s brother is anything like her. He is no more than a shadow on her grace. Gannon came away with a gift from Otahera from this betrothal; what Evaria gets is a prison.”

Vyrli’s ears went back, his eyes and mouth went tight.

“I see. When Lord Thallek came up with this betrothal, he must have assumed that both of Oonah and Ahmaer’s children would be an asset to Lehvalek. It is easy to see that Petra has a leader’s gift for diplomacy and kindness. I can only imagine that Thallek believed Mysin would be similar. I cannot fathom that he would send his daughter to anyone undeserving.”

“He should have asked,” Zill muttered. “Any of the clans bordering Ney’Kalo territory would have told you Mysin’s rakish reputation and poor performance as the child of an Alpha.” His teeth flashed. “This is the arrogance we have been dealing with for years. The higher clans make grand assumptions – oh, always in good heart – and the lesser clans suffer for it. Only now it’s Evaria who will suffer an empty marriage to a tail-chasing buffoon!”

He jerked the door open and lunged into the unlit room. Vyrli’s hand caught the edge of the door before Zill could slam it shut.

“What really provokes your anger, my friend?” the roan wolf said, tilting his head. He sighed. “Teklara would know. May a night’s rest bring you peace. I am sorry the evening’s tidings has disturbed you so.”

“I wish you peace as well,” Zill said in a flat, bitter voice. “And much joy in your marriage to Teklara. The spirits smile on your love-match, brother.”

Vyrly showed him a thin-lipped smile and turned, padding down the hall without a word. Zill closed the door and collapsed against it, falling slowly to the floor. In a reckless scatter of words, he had lashed out at the one wolf who had been his ally. Why am I so angry? he wondered. Around him the dark room offered no answers.

&&&

There was a sound in Evaria’s head like the rush of wind across the tundra. It would not abate. She felt at a loss, and this was a new feeling for her. Normally it was Gannon who considered the options and switched between choices while she charged ahead, preferring to face consequences over wallowing in indecision. It had made her well known as a hunter, one who confronted a herd of galloping reindeer without panicking, ready to face the onslaught. But now there was nowhere she could leap to, nothing a well-timed spear could change. Evaria swallowed, trying to get rid of the lump in her throat. She felt entirely exposed.

She nearly fled after Romulus, but paused as the dark wolf glanced behind her and dropped his chin to indicate she should not follow him. Evaria looked back and saw Petra approaching. What did the she-wolf want to offer her? Congratulations, elation at her betrothal to Gannon? The pale she-wolf’s throat burned with acid for her father’s foolish decision. Now what?

"What I say to you...I say as a friend to a friend...not as a tribal heir to a clan heir. There is not much I can say about my brother that is good, I'm afraid. He's the one that is supposed to be heir to the Ney'Kalo...not me, but my parents gave me the title when he ran into some trouble with another clan. I'm certain my parents will agree to this union...but only one child will be given away. And...make certain that I'm the one who marries into your family, Evaria...and I'll find some way to prevent my brother from taking your hand. I hope that brings some comfort to you. May you find happiness.”

Evaria blinked, wishing desperately for a glass of wine. She gave Petra a long, considering look, trying to discern the other wolf’s sincerity. It seemed true, even the regret. Petra turned away before Evaria could sift through her thoughts for an appropriate response. Truly, what was there to say? Gannon was a kind heart, a good brother and son, and would make a dutiful husband. She does not want a marriage made on duty any more than I do, the tawny she-wolf thought, grimacing. She pressed the rough pads on her palms to her face, feeling for wisps of composure.

“Evaria.”

The she-wolf looked up to where Romulus was standing at the entrance to the hall. He was doing no better at appearing calm – the she-wolf could see the fractures of panic on his face and in his eyes. A long moment of silence passed, and then the dark wolf closed the distance between them, the shadow of his stride moving over the stone floor.

Evaria raised a hand and pressed it against Romulus’ collar bone as he stood before her. It was the most contact she dared in public spaces, but after a moment the she-wolf stepped closer and let her head fall against his chest. Romulus made a choked sound, hesitating, and then curved his arms around her.

“I’m sorry,” he said.

“I know.”

“We’ll find a way around it. There is time.”

“I know.”

They stepped apart and a wall of silence rose between them. Romulus turned and left the hall. Evaria watched him go, and then slipped away through another door, going the same way Gannon had earlier.

&&&

Romulus watched Teklara enter the library. He closed the book he was holding – a small collection of stories about the spirits – and ran his hand over the cover. The older stories were his favourite, the ones about the spirits as young mortals first encountering the magic of the Talosi.

The wolf returned Teklara’s smile, but did not bother to hide the pain in his eyes. He sighed.

“I know. Better that you remained as unaware as I was. If I had known, Evaria would have known, and then Thallek would know about the two of us. You know how she is, forever ready to take on a fight.” A thread of fondness coloured his voice, warming it. “This Mysin had better not be weak-willed.”

Romulus tried to laugh, but the sound was more like a cough, weak and empty of feeling. He ran a thumb along the spine of the book.

“Unbreakable betrothals and star-crossed lovers are common in the old stories, aren’t they?”

&&&

Evaria padded onto the balcony, irritated the moment she saw Gannon. Her brother’s happiness was obvious, and how could it not be? He was looking at a betrothal to a beautiful and capable she-wolf, while she was being set up with a creature who didn’t even have the confidence of his own sister! The she-wolf’s lip curled as her anger spiked again.

“I’m sure Father is pleased with himself,” Evaria said. She stood beside the railing, letting her gaze move past the walls to the tundra. “I can’t imagine how he managed to keep this all a secret for so long.”

[Aryela Jade Secray]

Time both crept and sped past Petra as she stood at Zill's door. It crept with her indecision of what to say to her puphood friend, and sped with the knowledge that she would have to make her decision by morning. It would be a dishonor to Thallek if Petra did not at least promise one Ney'Kalo child to his family. And I'll be damned if it's Mysin, came the argument, not for the first time. She didn't want to consent to the marriage for many reasons, the largest one being the wolf just behind the door. How would he feel....not that it should matter, right? She and Zill weren't betrothed...fates, they weren't even courting each other, and yet she felt as if she was betraying him by deciding that she would marry Gannon. How could she possibly avoid it? It was her duty...as well as her bane.

Petra fought back a sob of frustration and glared at the door barring her way. She wanted to go in and scream all her frustration and sorrow out to Zill, but could she do it? Would he listen? And even if he did, would she be hurting him? There were too many unanswered questions, and her stomach ached with her inner turmoil. Tribal instincts urged her to go back to her room and perform her duty in the morning, but her heart...it could not obey. It rebelled and beat and screamed in her chest, declaring that this was wrong.

How could they?

How could their parents do this to their children, but whoever said the world was fair? Petra bit her lip until it almost bled then finally made a decision. She lifted her paw and knocked hard three times. Upon the final strike, Petra actually pulled back and nearly flung herself down the hall, but she couldn't do it. She needed Zill right now, more than she could have ever thought possible.

It was a few moments before the door opened, and when it did, Petra surprised both of them. Mutely, she stepped inside and flung her arms around Zill's neck, holding tightly to him like a drowning wolf to driftwood. Her footpaw shut the door behind them, and she pressed her head into his shoulder. The stoic Petra vanished, replaced by the tender, loving she-wolf that Zill rarely had the privilege to see unless they were in private. The only reason he was fortunate to see her this way was because he was her dearest and most trusted friend.

"Zill....what do I do?" she whispered, seeking comfort against his warm body. She pressed her head beneath his chin and shuddered once. "I know what I must do...what's expected of me, but I...." She shook her head and fell silent. All she wanted was to be with him, to know someone actually cared about how the proposal made her feel, and not how it would help the tribe.

***

Teklara sat down lightly on the edge of the table and watched Romulus with sad eyes. She was almost able to drink in his emotions they were so thick. The she-wolf glanced away for a time, her ears laid back as she listened to the wolf speak.

“I know. Better that you remained as unaware as I was. If I had known, Evaria would have known, and then Thallek would know about the two of us. You know how she is, forever ready to take on a fight. This Mysin had better not be weak-willed.”

Teklara snorted at that and closed her eyes. You wouldn't know of Mysin, would you, my friend? she thought to herself. How could he? Romulus had not lived in the North long enough to have heard all the horrible stories surrounding Mysin. Then again, Thallek apparently hadn't heard them either, or else he had turned a deaf ear to them. I can't imagine him doing that, however, not when his daughter's life is at stake.

The she-wolf brushed a paw along her sari as if to rid herself of her bitter emotions with each gentle stroke. Her eyes darted back towards Romulus as he ran his thumb along the spine of a book.

“Unbreakable betrothals and star-crossed lovers are common in the old stories, aren’t they?”

"They are," Teklara replied softly. She reached out and touched his paw. "Many of them end in sorrow, but not all. Romulus.." Teklara shook her head and patted his paw. "I think...you and Evaria may be worrying prematurely. The decision has yet to be fully made, and if I know the Ney'Kalo Alphas, they will not want to release both children to Thallek. Petra would be the proper match, and I cannot imagine them asking Mysin to marry your sister. I..." Teklara looked away for a moment, considering her words. Should she tell Romulus about Mysin? Should she urge him to run away while he had the chance? To take Evaria with him? Or would that just cause more trouble?

"Romulus, you know I think of you as a dear friend so...I think it would be unfair of me to keep knowledge from you." She folded her paws over her knees and stared at him directly. "I do not think the Ney'Kaloans will allow Mysin to marry Evaria because....Mysin has been a disgrace to his family before. Petra will marry Gannon because it is her duty, and because the Ney'Kalo tribe surely cannot pass up this offer. If...should Mysin become part of the deal, I would urge you to take Evaria far from here...where you both can be happy. My mate would most likely disagree with me, and would scold me if I told him, but that is my advice to you."

Teklara flicked an ear and shrugged. "But again, do not panic until the decision is made, my friend. Or else....see if you can make an offer to Thallek by marrying Evaria. Perhaps there is something you can barter with."

****

Gannon looked over his shoulder the moment he heard Evaria step onto the balcony. Her drink sat on the railing beside his, and he turned to her, full of smiles...until he saw her expression.

“I’m sure Father is pleased with himself. I can’t imagine how he managed to keep this all a secret for so long.”

"Why are you so angry?" Gannon said quietly, a small frown on his face. "Evaria....this is an honor for us and for our family. Can you imagine what this will do for the tribes and clans? We should be overjoyed to have this opportunity to build the relationships between the clans and...." his voice tapered off as he watched his sister's expression grow even bleaker.

He just didn't understand. He knew that this would be his destiny one day; to marry for honor instead of love, though he certainly hoped that it would become love instead of infatuation. Perhaps Evaria hoped for something different, and while he could disapprove of it, he could not fault her for wanting pure love over duty. Any wolf would want that, including Gannon himself, but he had long given up on such frivolous hopes. It seems you have not, dear sister.

Gannon looked into the tundra for a moment, thinking he spotted something out in the darkness, but assuming it was just the flash of an animal's eyes escaping into the wild. Shaking his head, he looked to Evaria and reached out to touch her arm lovingly. "Evaria....what's this really all about? You looked ready to tear father’s head from his shoulders. You know you can tell me, sister. We never used to keep secrets from each other." Of course, she didn't know that he had been well aware of the proposal long before it was announced at dinner. Who really was the one keeping secrets?

ooc: Hope that works! Sorry for autoing a little. If you want me to change it, just let me know!

[Bowen Lark]

The passing hours gave Zill no comfort. After Vyrli had left him, the grey wolf spent time in prayer, asking the spirits for guidance. He sent a special plea to Avali, the Zjolan clan’s guiding spirit, but afterward felt no wiser. There was no comfort for him, no soothing words from his mother or the knowledge that the spirits heard his prayers. Zill wondered again about the ache in his chest, which had bloomed following Thallek’s offer of betrothals to the Ney’Kalo alphas’ children. It was a yawning gap of pain, sharpened by every fleeting thought of Petra. Petra marrying Gannon. Petra leaving her clan to live in Lehvalek. And then Petra having pups, having a life… all without him.

The wolf lit all of the tapers in the lanterns on the walls, trying to drive out some of the dark. He was in a place beyond exhaustion – mentally numbed and with only enough energy to prop himself up next to the window and gaze blearily out at the snow.

You are a fool. You love her. Petra. It’s that simple.

Zill’s ears went back, but the voice was emanating from a place deep inside his head. He knew what it said was true – this part of him had a talent for drudging out the truth – but to think on it made nothing else easier. Or simpler. Admitting that he had loved Petra for the last ten years wouldn’t make her impending betrothal disappear. They were the children of Alphas, and their destinies were more intertwined with the clans’ than those of other wolves. A marriage could forge generations of peace and prosperity for two clans – this was what Thallek was offering to the Ney’Kalo, a chance to erase the history of distance between the higher and lesser clans, and make something new. Zill couldn’t deny a small bit of joy at the thought, that one day his children or grandchildren would remember the fighting between the clans as a black spot of history, and not a reality.

The knock at the door startled him. Zill stared, puzzled, as two more knocks followed. Vyrli? It had been hours since they parted ways, and the grey wolf could think of no reason for Vyrli to visit him now. He padded toward the door, unlatched the lock, and opened it.

Shock flooded him as Petra pressed against him, her arms around his neck,her head against his chest. He gaped, mouthing words without sound, and tried to make sense of the she-wolf’s sudden appearance.

“Petra?” he said, unable to come up with anything else.

"Zill....what do I do? I know what I must do...what's expected of me, but I...."

Pain flared in his gut, finding the space between his heart and belly. Zill let out a shaky breath and ran his hand over Petra’s headfur. He had seen this side of her before, but he had never held her. To do so now was both comforting and a reminder of what he stood to lose if she married Gannon.

“Your parents haven’t said yes to the betrothal,” he said. His throat was raw. “And they cannot force you into a marriage. We can…we can… find some way to stop this. I’ll find a way.”

His voice was bold, but Zill barely felt strong enough to stand.

“Otahera help us find a way.”

&&&

Romulus had to look past Teklara. The she-wolf’s awareness of his pain showed in her expression and posture. He could not bear to see himself reflected so, like a broken soul ready to die. This wasn’t that serious. This was…what was it? Another tale to tell before the fire, how the southerner fell in love with a Talosi princess, only to lose her as quickly as the weather changed on the tundra.

The wolf winced at Teklara’s words. Many of the tales were steeped in sorrow – Avali losing her mortal husband and children, Kern sacrificing himself on the solstice to save a hundred clans. The ones about lovers were always the saddest, as the fates seemed to find love an easy target for bad fortune. Based on that alone, I should have known better.

"I think...you and Evaria may be worrying prematurely. The decision has yet to be fully made, and if I know the Ney'Kalo Alphas, they will not want to release both children to Thallek. Petra would be the proper match, and I cannot imagine them asking Mysin to marry Gannon’s sister. I…”

Romulus smiled bitterly, and there were shadows in his eyes.

“You know Thallek is as stubborn as the winter as long. And refusing him could end in disaster – gentle as he likes to seem, the wolf is proud, and wounding that pride could bring an end to all of the negotiations.”[/i]

He listened as the she-wolf confided Mysin’s dubious reputation. How could Thallek not know he was promising his only daughter to that?

“You know that if there was a way, we would have left long ago.”

Romulus sighed and slumped into the chair beside Teklara.

“We are all bridled by duty. Evaria to her father and clan, me to the guilds. If I was to break my contract with them, there would be nowhere safe enough for Evaria and me to live. I could not do that to her. At least here she is respected as a huntress and a council member. Even if she were to marry Mysin, it is not unheard of for mated pairs to live separately of one another.”

"But again, do not panic until the decision is made, my friend. Or else....see if you can make an offer to Thallek by marrying Evaria. Perhaps there is something you can barter with."

Romulus ran a hand over his eyes. He flashed Teklara a warm, weary smile, but his tone was heavy with defeat.

“I wish that you and Vyrli headed Lehvalek. I know that Thallek’s kindness has been unending – even when I first arrived, he treated me like a friend to the clans. But I will always be an other -- one of the south-born, clanless. What could I offer Evaria, what kind of life? And what could I offer Thallek? All of my worth is tied in with the guilds, and once my contract is over, I will be forced to find work elsewhere.”

He laughed, an empty sound coming from his throat.

“I am a terrible suitor.”

&&&

Evaria rolled her eyes at Gannon’s disappointment. She picked up her drink and rolled it between her palms, trying to bury the rising resentment in her chest. Gannon! He was always agreeing with their father’s plans, forever the dutiful son, while she looked for every opportunity to flout clan rules. Their mother was no help either, splitting her time between Lehvalek and her birth clan, and always when Thallek was about to reveal a plan she disagreed with. Evaria felt utterly bereft of support. She returned Gannon’s frown.

“How is it an honour to be treated like pups instead of members of the council, adults and heirs who have passed the tests for adulthood? Father disrespects us both with his good intentions.”

Her mouth twisted into a scowl.

“I understand what this will do for the Talosi; I do. I want to put this hierarchy of clans behind us. I understand what Father is doing, and I am proud to be his daughter because of it. But I do not want to marry this…Mysin. This is another thing that needs to change among the clans, this business of using marriage as a commodity.”

"Evaria....what's this really all about? You looked ready to tear father’s head from his shoulders. You know you can tell me, sister. We never used to keep secrets from each other."

Evaria gave her brother a flat look.

“We are not children now, Gannon. I know we used to confide our fears in one another as pups, but…that was a long time ago. I love you and Father, but I cannot go through with this betrothal. He can banish me if he wishes.”

She turned away from her brother and crossed her arms, wishing this could have been as simple as sharing childish fears and wishes.

&&&

It was a brief moment of savagery to rid the south gates of their guards.

Kallan cleaned blood from the edge of his spear and gave the bodies slumped at his paws a considering look. Not a year ago he had shared ale with both of those wolves, laughing over some slip of petty gossip. They are traitors, and they died like traitors. He spat on their rapidly cooling corpses, and opened the door to the others.

&&&

Zarul bristled the moment he set foot in the stone keep. It was wholly unnatural to him – how could the pash’kar, blood filth, stand it? It only proved how far Thallek and his ilk had fallen from what the spirits had originally intended. The clans were meant to test each other, using war to measure the depth of their faith, their dedication to Otahera. Merging them all as one clan was an abomination – the lesser clans would pollute the blood of the higher clans with their inferior stock, and Otahera would exact a terrible vengeance on all of them. Suidon Greyclaw had said as much, in his interpretations of the old tales. And Zarul had listened.

He knew how the halls of Lehvalek like he had lived within its walls. Suidon had provided them with detailed maps, but it was the last sliver of information from one still living amongst the pash’kar that helped now. As soon as Kallan had cleared an entry for them, they had met with Irek. He was still wearing the robes of an attendant, having served Thallek and the others their supper earlier in the night. Irek told them where Thallek’s children were and where the lesser clan filth were sleeping. What came next was easier than taking a breath.

Zarul slipped up the stairs to the balcony. Already fifty of Suidon’s select hunters were stalking through the keep, eliminating the strongest wolves in Thallek’s clans. As a mark of honour, Suidon had allowed him Thallek’s children.

He threaded a black-tipped arrow to his bow, savouring the feel of the string against his fingers. In a moment, the Talosi would be turned in the proper direction.

Zarul strode onto the balcony and let the arrow fly.

“Ka’mar lako sverino pash’kar.” Go swiftly to hell, blood filth.

ooc: Hope that's okay! Feel free to rp the baddies geading for Zill and Petra. I'll take care of Romo and the rest next post.

[Aryela Jade Secray]

Petra held Zill tightly as she tried desperately to rein in her own emotions. How could she break like this in front of him? Easy. He was her best friend, and he had been there for her more than even some of her own tribemates. He had a compassionate shoulder to cry on, and he always helped her see the clearer picture when she was consumed by anger or uncertainty. Now, Petra had a feeling that he was conveying another feeling, and it couldn't have come at a worse time. What am I doing? she argued with herself. He has feelings for me, I know he does, just as I know I have feelings for him. This is going to make it worse. We're supposed to do our duties, not jump into each others' arms when...when something like this happens!

She blushed violently, wondering how this must seem to Zill. She started to pull back until she felt his warm paw caress her headfur. Petra grew still. He had never done that before, and the touch was simply....wonderful. A soothing energy passed through her, chasing away some of her trepidation, if only to replace it with another emotion. Suddenly Petra felt a little afraid for a completely different reason. Her mother had described that same feeling when Oonah had fallen in love with her husband. Oh Otahera...why now? Why not months...nay years ago when we could have chosen to be lovers? Why, when I must be betrothed, do these emotions come?

It didn't seem fair. Weren't they allowed to have some happiness in their lives? Weren't they allowed to be happy? Petra fought back a whimper and tucked her head under Zill's chin, seeking protection and comfort. As a warrioress, she really didn't need protection, but just as a simple she-wolf who had been given a deal she could not refuse for the sake of her tribe, she needed all the kindness she could get.

“Your parents haven’t said yes to the betrothal. And they cannot force you into a marriage. We can…we can… find some way to stop this. I’ll find a way. Otahera help us find a way.”

"But you know they will agree if only to keep a connection with Thallek," Petra whispered and shuddered. "They can't marry Mysin off...he'd ruin everything. Zill, what am I to do? I have to marry Gannon for the sake of the tribe...for the sake of my family and even some of the other tribes and clans, but I don't want to. Oh, Otahera, my heart weeps at the mere idea."

She tightened her hold on her once puphood friend and sniffed hard, fighting back her tears. Petra rarely cried, and Zill was one of the few who had actually seen her weep. She didn't want to cry now either, because then she might do something she would regret, and that would ruin everything that Thallek had offered her family.

The she-wolf bit her lip hard then slowly drew her head back to look at Zill. Should she tell him? Would it be right to never utter the words so longingly waiting on her tongue? Would it be kinder to leave him in the dark? Fates, she didn't know. Petra stared into those lovely, comforting eyes and reached out to touch Zill's cheeks with both of her paws.

"Zill, you've always been my closest and dearest friend. I've always been able to depend on you, and I hope you've been able to rely on me as well. I know I must do this, but Zill....I....my heart won't belong to him...ever." She blinked and her eyes watered a little. "He'll never have it because I lov-"

BANG!

Petra pun in surprise as the door to Zill's room slammed open. At first, she thought one of the servants had accidentally knocked into it, but the wolf standing at the door certainly didn't look like a servant. He was taller than Zill and wore dark forest green clothing. His body was armed to the teeth, and he bore a short blade in one paw and a dagger in the other. He looked just as stunned as Petra until a snarl worked across his face, and he shifted out of the way.

"Get them," he snarled, and about ten wolves swept into the room before Petra even knew what was happening. She gasped as one hurled a dagger at them, aimed for their legs so it wouldn't kill. Petra shoved Zill away as she jumped to the other side, and that allowed the ten wolves to curve in and cut them off from each other.

Petra rolled out of the way of one and drew Talis' dagger, which she always had on her. As startled as she was, her warrior instincts kicked in, and she lashed out at her first attacker. He tried to slap her across the shoulder with the flat of his bastard sword, but it was much too long against Petra who had the shorter dagger. She ducked low then plunged the weapon into his gut, snarling. The wolf yelped and toppled to the ground. Petra looked at his body and snagged the short sword on his belt. As the next wolf jumped at her, she spun with both sword and dagger in paw.

The next opponent wasn't so easily laid low. Petra kicked a chair out at a third wolf, tripping him before he could accost her, and nearly lost her head to the second male. His dagger bit into her arm as he slashed at her, causing Petra to snarl in pain. She ducked another blow and spun on her footpaw, landing a hefty kick in his stomach. He was sent flying back into the third wolf, knocking him onto his back again.

Petra smirked, but the expression fell when the supposed leader stalked towards her. He shoved his two wolves up to their feet and snapped. "Get her cornered, you idiots."

"Yes, Cyrus," one whispered.

Petra blinked. What in the world was going on? They didn't seem interested in killing her, though she was already bleeding. While Cyrus stuck to the rear, the pair threw themselves at her and tried to get her pinned. Petra attacked both, landing a crude blow on the third wolf's chest with her elbow, and slicing the second one's arm open with her sword. They danced around her with the third trying to slide behind her. Petra kicked back, catching him between the legs and sending him squealing to his knees. She went to finish him, but the second wolf charged forward and knocked her into a nearby wall. Petra grunted in pain as her wrist bent the wrong way, causing her to drop the sword. The second wolf kicked out and caught her leg, driving her to one knee.

As Petra fell against a desk, she heard a clunk above her. A candleholder rolled slowly across the wood and onto the floor beside her. When the second wolf bent to grab her, she snagged the metal fixture and swung. The male's head caved in under the blow, and he toppled at her feet. Petra panted and scrambled up with only a dagger in paw. Two of her opponents lay dead, and one was still dazed. She glanced over at Zill to see how he was and suddenly realized that no one else in the keep might know of the attack.

I have to warn them now in case we don't survive. She kicked her still dazed opponent onto his back and threw her head back. As the first chord of the howl rang out, a whip suddenly curled around her throat and yanked. Petra's call for help broke off in a strangled gurgle as she was jerked backwards off of her feet and onto the ground. The she-wolf struck her head hard on the floor and gasped for breath that would not come. Cyrus stood above her with the whip clenched in his paw. He jerked it again, strangling the she-wolf further.

"Ne, kep, shava-bavitch. Un sep’tema huva.” Be still, she-whore. Let darkness come.

Petra choked and brought up the dagger. She cut the whip free and struggled to pull the cord from her throat. As she did so, she broke the string on her tribal necklace, and it clanked to the ground. Petra tried to lift her dagger, but Cyrus had other ideas. He stomped down, snapping the wrist holding Talis' dagger. Petra yelled in pain and pushed against his paw to free herself. Instead, he bent down, twisted his paw in her headfur, and yanked her to her knees. Without a word, he balled his fist and brought it down across her face.

Darkness washed over Petra as she slumped to the ground, unconscious.

Cyrus let a wicked smile curl across his muzzle as he snarled at the male that Petra had dazed. "Help them catch the other half-breed," he growled. He waited until the male darted towards his companions before he crouched and bound Petra's wrists and legs. As he wove a cruel gag into her mouth, he smirked.

He had his prize.

****

“You know Thallek is as stubborn as the winter as long. And refusing him could end in disaster – gentle as he likes to seem, the wolf is proud, and wounding that pride could bring an end to all of the negotiations.”

Teklara frowned at Romulus and dropped her chin onto her paw. He was right. Thallek would insist that both children should be married off to the Ney'Kalo, otherwise he might not keep the deal. In fact, he might be so upset that the Ney'Kalo refused to give him both of their children that he could very well break all ties with them. She didn't want to think that Thallek would be that bitter or petty, but this was politics. Rulers did strange things when they were offended.

The she-wolf sighed and leaned back slowly. I wonder if I should tell him about Mysin. Surely he wouldn't want his daughter to be promised to that monster if he knew what Mysin was really like. Yet, why would he listen to me? I'm no Alpha... For once, Teklara wished that she had a slightly higher status, if only to help some of these poor unfortunate wolves who were about to have their lives shattered.

“I am a terrible suitor.”

Teklara actually glared at Romulus. "Stop that," she said a little sharper than she meant. "You may not be able to promise Evaria all the glitter and prestige that Mysin can, but there's something more important that you can offer her. Love." Teklara shook her head and reached out to squeeze Romulus' paw comfortingly. "Mysin won't let them live apart, my friend. He will think of Evaria as a prize won, so he will want to keep her close. If I...or someone else told Thallek what kind of wolf he is, maybe Thallek would reconsider asking the Ney'Kalo for both children. Then again, he may not listen to me...and as you said, things could get worse if the Ney'Kalo refuse him."

The she-wolf sighed and shook her head. "I know it seems like nothing can work out, Romulus, but you must have faith in Otahera, and in all the gods that the right decisions will be made....for you....for Evaria...for everyone." Teklara rose and wrapped her arms around Romulus in a sisterly fashion.

"Oh, my brother. I hate to see you this way. I will pray to my own Goddesses that you will find happiness. You deserve it, as does Evaria."

Shaking her head, Teklara pulled away and sat on the edge of the table again. What more could she say to him? She could give him advice and hope, but would it really work? She certainly hoped so.

****

“How is it an honour to be treated like pups instead of members of the council, adults and heirs who have passed the tests for adulthood? Father disrespects us both with his good intentions. I understand what this will do for the Talosi; I do. I want to put this hierarchy of clans behind us. I understand what Father is doing, and I am proud to be his daughter because of it. But I do not want to marry this…Mysin. This is another thing that needs to change among the clans, this business of using marriage as a commodity.”

Well! Gannon certainly hadn't expected that! The young male blinked slowly at his sister, trying to digest everything that she had fired off at him. He knew she was upset, but fates, he hadn't thought she was this enraged! As he listened, he began to see some of her points and soon realized why she was so angry. In a way, Thallek was treating them like children. He hadn't given Evaria, at least, a voice in this decision. While he had asked Gannon if he approved, what made him any different than Evaria? It wasn't fair to her at all. She was right. She'd passed the trials, just as he had, and she deserved the chance to be part of this decision, not be thrown into it!

Gannon's stomach twisted suddenly and he looked away, wishing that he had told her ahead of time. I never thought this would hurt her so much. That's the last thing I want to do! Yes, I want to please Father, but not at the expensive of losing the love and trust of my sister.

The wolf sighed deeply and looked over at his sister, a faint glimmer of understanding in his eyes. "Evaria-"

But she cut him off with words that actually cut him.

“We are not children now, Gannon. I know we used to confide our fears in one another as pups, but…that was a long time ago. I love you and Father, but I cannot go through with this betrothal. He can banish me if he wishes.”

"Evaria," he said again, his voice a mere whisper of hurt. He lowered his ears, feeling as if she had just slapped him. No, we aren't children anymore, but why can't she understand that I just want to help? I love her, as any brother would love his sister. Gannon frowned deeply and shifted uncomfortably behind her. How could she turn her back on him like this? And why in the world would she think that Thallek would banish her?! He loved his daughter....didn't he?

Is that what she's afraid of? That Father will reject her if she doesn't follow through? I...I wouldn't let him! Gods, she must think I'd turn against her too.

Gannon whimpered quietly then moved to embrace his sister, loosely enough so she didn't think he was trying to hold her against her will. "Evaria, sister, I would not let him banish you like that, and if he did, I would go with you." Gannon frowned and nudged her shoulder with his nose. "As much as I respect Father, and as much as I want to do what's right for the clans and tribes, you are still my sister...you mean the world to me, Evaria. Have you forgotten so soon?"

Gannon sighed and shook his head. "Evaria, if you don't want to do this, I can talk to Father. Maybe I can see if there is a way-"

But any more words that he thought to utter were lost as a dark shadow appeared on the balcony. Gannon looked up, enraged that anyone thought to ruin this private moment with his sister. When he saw the arrow pointed directly at Evaria's heart, all sense fled from him.

“Ka’mar lako sverino pash’kar.”

The arrow flew, and Gannon shoved his sister roughly out of the way. He heard the arrow when it impacted, felt his body give way and fall backwards against the railing. There was no pain at first. In fact, Gannon felt a chill instead of agony rush through him as he slowly lowered his head to the black-tipped arrow that had protruded out of his chest. It was when he tried to take a breath that the blood rose to his lips, his heart jumped, and the air would not reach his deflated lung.

Gannon gasped and shuddered where he lay, the blood pouring down his lips. He looked dimly towards Evaria who had fallen to her side. She looked dazed...and she started wavering in his sight. Gannon blinked to clear his eyes, but darkness started creeping in. The pain grew worse, and the blood frothed from barely moving lips.

With a faint intake of breath, Gannon reached out slowly towards his sister and whispered, "E..v..ar...iaaa-"

His voice faded as his last breath held the syllable. His paw fell limply, and Gannon's eyes shut for the final time.

Thus ended the life of Gannon, son of Thallek.

ooc: Phew, hope that works. I had Petra lose her necklace so you know who can find it. Left the battle open for Zill so you can have him take out a couple if you'd like. Wasn't going to let poor Petra go down without a fight lol.

[Bowen Lark]

Zill struggled with the urge to take Petra by the hand and run out of Lehvalek, far from Thallek and the problems he had caused. But really, what difference would it make? Thallek’s offer had come with an enormous burden – refuse to marry Gannon, and Petra risked the future harmony between the clans. For what? Zill had no illusions that she harboured similar feelings – in fact, he had once felt relief at knowing that the she-wolf viewed him as no more than a friend. There was no need for both of them to be heartbroken; Zill had no desire to see Petra dragged down into a heartsick gloom.
The grey wolf cringed inwardly at the lack of propriety they were displaying. If Vyrli came through the door and saw them together, what then? They weren’t pups anymore, and this wasn’t pretend play. As much as Zill wanted to hold Petra, he knew that he shouldn’t. The wolf stifled a sigh and closed his eyes. Otahera intervene...but you love these stories, don’t you? The Talosi was founded on heartbreak. Another shudder of grief went through the wolf’s chest. Enjoy this brief moment then, before the world changes.

"But you know they will agree if only to keep a connection with Thallek. They can't marry Mysin off...he'd ruin everything. Zill, what am I to do? I have to marry Gannon for the sake of the tribe...for the sake of my family and even some of the other tribes and clans, but I don't want to. Oh, Otahera, my heart weeps at the mere idea."

“Trust Mysin’s foolishness to destroy more lives than just his own,” Zill said. He curled his lip, stifling a growl. “The only good that comes of it is that Thallek’s daughter will be spared. But Petra, I will do anything to help you – anything. I do not want this any more than you do...”

He sensed that she was near tears, and tried to lightened the weight of Petra’s sadness.

“Maybe we should let Thallek meet Mysin. Then he might have second thoughts.” The grey wolf let out a teasing growl, and his eyes flashed. But Petra seemed not to have heard.

The wolf froze as her hands went up to his face and rested there. Shocked widened his eyes, and Zill could do little more than gaze dumbfounded down at Petra. What was this?

"Zill, you've always been my closest and dearest friend. I've always been able to depend on you, and I hope you've been able to rely on me as well. I know I must do this, but Zill....I....my heart won't belong to him...ever. He'll never have it because I lov-"

Zill’s head buzzed, and he processed Petra’s words like he had to translate each one from another language. He felt feverish, dazed.
The wolf had no time to react before Petra shoved him. The back of his head struck the wall, and for a moment Zill’s gaze was full of stars. Petra was already on the other side of the room, a wall of bodies blocking them. Zill did not recognize the markings on any of the wolves’ faces, and their antagonism was just as confusing. He ducked a blow from a staff and used the momentum to bury his shoulder into the gut of another wolf. Both of them collided with a third, leaving Zill momentarily breathless.

A pair of hands heaved him back. Zill snarled and raked his claws against the face of the wolf who held him. Blood warmed his fingertips and the other wolf screamed, now blinded. Zill spun and put his back to the wall. He slipped a thin fletching knife from his belt.

“Bastard lowborn,” one the wolves spat, twisting a short spear in his hands. “I’d give my eyeteeth to have you gutted on a lance and strung up for all the other filth to see.”

“We take him alive,” another wolf said. She regarded Zill with cold eyes and a smirk. “But he doesn’t have to be hale.”

With that, the other wolves lunged in. Zill took a glancing blow to the shoulder and another to his leg. He buried the knife in the spear-bearing wolf’s gut before losing hold of the hilt. Zill growled again and fought with his teeth and paws until his fur was red-stained. Still the other wolves came on, bashing him with spear shafts and leaving shallow cuts up his torso and chest with blade edges. Zill took a cracking shot to the head that left him blind in one eye. He reeled back and struck out. Pain blazed from his knee as the flat side of a blade cracked against the joint. Zill fell.

The other wolves beat him for moments afterward until Cyrus called them off. Two of the wolves started to pile their dead in the far corner. Zill watched them through a grainy haze. He was barely conscious as rough twine was used to bind his hands and paws and muzzle him. The she-wolf who had spoken earlier dug her claws into his ribs. Her voice was thick with dark laughter.

“You are going to wish we had killed you.”

&&&

Romulus felt lighter after bearing his worries in front of Teklara. The she-wolf had a deep well of empathy, even for a southerner. Having her reassurance made the dark wolf see that his problem was not nearly as dire as it felt – in league with other troubles, it was almost mundane.

Romulus sat back and let out a low laugh. “Fates, how’s this for a late night conversation? The air is heavy with tension tonight. I am glad for your company.”

The wolf frowned and moved his gaze to the library doors. It wasn’t that late, yet Lehvalek seemed completely silent. A flicker of worry went up in his chest. Something was off.

“Does it seem odd to you that the keep is so silent? I would think that the young ones would still be up at least.”

Teklara seemed perturbed as well, her brow furrowed. Romulus stood and moved his ears forward, straining to hear some sign of life. He heard a stuttering scraping sound, like cracking ice, and then everything went to hell.

The window nearest them shattered. Romulus spun around to find a cause, and saw three wolves leap over the broken glass. All armed. One of them was laughing. The dark wolf’s hackles rose. He bolted forward to face the intruders.

“Romulus!”

Teklara’s voice was strained. Romulus’ head snapped back toward the door, where another three wolves had entered. Two were fingering long swords and eyeing the she-wolf with something like lust. Teklara had slipped a long, thin blade from her sleeve. Her hand snapped and the wolf nearest her fell back with blood springing from his neck. The other two let out dark snarls.

“Pash’na relfin, sa’ma,” one said. Romulus thought it was an insult, for Teklara recoiled after the words were spoken.

“I’ll die first,” she snarled, meeting him head on. Romulus couldn’t watch their fight, the menacing laughter of the other wolves already pulling at his attention. He met the three with a baleful stare, teeth flashing. His broadsword hissed leaving the scabbard.

They are so young, the dark wolf thought. One of the wolves darted out to meet him, but his sword was angled so low that it was easy for Romulus to cut over it, leaving a yawning gash in the other wolf’s chest. The other two seemed more hesitant, and tried to take him on as a team. Romulus winced as one of their blades cut across his shoulder, but it left a shallow wound. In the next breath he had killed one and left the other two bleeding on the floor unable to stand. He looked at the blood on his sword and sighed.

“Was it worth it?”

Behind him came the sound of a falling books, and then Teklara’s low yelp broke over the sounds of fighting. Romulus darted out of the shelves. He found Teklara with both hands over her torso, trying to staunch a wound that was bleeding heavily. The other wolves were dead.

Lehvalek was awake now.

Romulus cut a length of cloth from his cloak and helped Teklara bind her wound.

“We need a healer,” the dark wolf said.

Teklara’s voice was wry and her eyes were lit with a terrible light.

“We need a miracle. Lehvalek is falling.”

The doors swung nearly off their hinges as two wolves fell through them. One was clawing desperately at the other, a smaller, slighter wolf who had the other wolf’s neck locked in his jaws. Short, gurgling screams punctured the steady growling from the small wolf. Eventually the screams stopped altogether.

“Vyrli.” Teklara’s voice was weak, but Romulus heard threads of relief and joy in it. She tried to step forward, but the dark wolf kept her still with one arm.

The small roan wolf spat fur and blood from his mouth. He trembled as he stood up – distress or rage, Romulus could not tell. Vyrli’s clothing was ripped and he seemed to be bloodied in a dozen places.

“I had to find you,” Vyrli gasped. He lunged forward and gripped Teklara’s hands in his. “Once I knew what was going on, I had to find you. I...I killed...others.” He let out a shaky breath, and suddenly froze. “Otahera no, are you hurt?”

Teklara gave him a small smile. “It is nothing, love. I am so glad to see you...”

Both Romulus and Vyrli jumped to catch Teklara as she stumbled forward and started to fall. The halls outside were alive with raucous calls and the screams of less fortunate wolves.

“You need to bring her to a healer,” Vyrli said, his voice tight with urgency. “She’ll...she’ll die otherwise.”

Romulus had already gathered Teklara in his arms. He shot the roan wolf a bemused look.

“What about you? Where will I go?”

“Go to the clans. Follow Otahera’s star until you find a clan, or one finds you.” Vyrli held out a hand to stop Romulus from protesting. “The banished clans did this. If you stay, they will kill you. Teklara will not survive. Go, and call upon the mercy of the clans.”

“How...?”

Vyrli grabbed him by the sleeve and led them into the hall. Romulus followed him up to the other floor, where he knew Zill and Petra were staying. The doors to all the rooms had been smashed. Romulus did not have to look in them to know they were empty. Vyrli pushed him into the nearest room.

“Where...where...” his voice was a terse mutter. Romulus cradled Teklara in his arms as the roan wolf darted around, lifting rugs and opening drawers.

“Here!” Vyrli rushed at them and snapped a many-coloured necklace around Teklara’s neck. “Praise Otahera that Petra took this off after dinner. It may be able to buy you safety with the lesser clans.”

Romulus had no time to check the necklace. Vyrli let out a shout and shoved him toward the window. He did not think, or look back. His claws clicked against the roof tile and the sudden cold was sharper than any blade. Romulus ran, and then leapt, and ran, and leapt again, half-falling as he scrabbled along the lower roofs of Lehvalek. He held Teklara with one arm and used the other for balance, keeping his gaze on the wall torches. Once on the wall, Romulus looked around for another route. There was no other way.

“Your spirits and mine keep us,” the wolf said. He took a breath and plunged over the wall, and onto the Talosi.

&&&

Evaria felt a twinge of guilt for speaking so harshly to her brother. Gannon had been right about sharing secrets as pups – he had been her best and only friend. Now she felt like he was a stranger, or one of Thallek’s puppets. She loved him, as fiercely as Kern had loved his brother Orun even when they were at war with each other. But she did not know him.

Still the pale wolf let her brother hold her, and tried to feel like she had when they were young. Safe. Loved. Now it was Romulus’ embrace that came with those feelings. Evaria shivered but she did not pry away from Gannon.

"Evaria, sister, I would not let him banish you like that, and if he did, I would go with you. As much as I respect Father, and as much as I want to do what's right for the clans and tribes, you are still my sister...you mean the world to me, Evaria. Have you forgotten so soon?"

Evaria smiled, but her eyes were bleak. She raised a hand to Gannon’s head and tugged at the fur behind his ear.

“You are too much a kind-heart, Gannon. Always ready to take on another’s fight...”

Her ear flicked at the sound of a bowstring being tightened. Evaria glanced at the other wolf, not fully comprehending what was happening. Gannon was quicker. Evaria stumbled back, losing her balance to Gannon’s shove. Everything happened quickly after that, so quickly, and yet she felt like time had stopped moving. The she-wolf let out a cry as the arrow struck her brother. She scrabbled to catch him, clutching his body to hers. Evaria had seen others die, had killed – she knew the look of a creature in the last moments of life.

“Gannon!”

He was dead.

“We only needed one of you.”

Evaria laid Gannon down as gently as she could, then stood to face Zarul. She was shaking, a tangle of rage and grief slipping up through her belly and into her heart and head. Her eyes glittered, fixed on the other wolf’s smug face.

Zarul smirked. “Come quietly, pash’kari whore, and I will not harm –“

Evaria did not hear him. She charged, driving her shoulder into Zarul’s chest and propelling them both down the stairs. Pain flared in a dozen places, but the she-wolf was in a place beyond feeling. She rolled once they hit the landing, and dove onto the other wolf. Zarul, dazed, tried to bat at her, but Evaria drove her knee into his abdomen, subduing him.

She clutched his head in both hands and yanked it upwards, and then down onto the edge of the nearest step. And again, again, again, until her hands were slick with gore and the light in Zarul’s eyes completely gone.

When Kielo found her, Evaria was huddled next to her brother’s body. She went willingly with the other wolf, offering no fight. It was not for three hours later that another wolf found Zarul’s body, pitched over the railing to the icy ground below.

[Aryela Jade Secray]

“Does it seem odd to you that the keep is so silent? I would think that the young ones would still be up at least.”

Teklara was about to comment on the silence as well, and she turned nervous eyes towards Romulus. No, the Keep normally wasn't this silent, and Vyrli should have been back by now. What could be keeping him? A great feeling of trepidation filled her, and Teklara started to rise at the same moment the windows shattered. The she-wolf staggered back with a soft cry, only to spin as the doors slammed open.

“Romulus!” Teklara yelped as she dropped a long, thin blade into her paw. She had one strapped to each arm, a precaution her tribe had insisted she take. The she-wolf flicked her ears back, both in fear and anger. Who dared intrude upon these halls? Where were the guards? Where was Vyrli! That last thought sent a chill of fear racing through her heart, and before she could even think to stop herself, she threw her paw and took one wolf down with her blade.

“Pash’na relfin, sa’ma,” one snarled, and Teklara balked in disgust. Oh, she knew those words, and the implications created a knot in her stomach. They dared to utter such oaths to a Mezaric? Teklara's fear disappeared in a cloud of anger, and she bared her teeth.

“I’ll die first,” she snarled. Slipping the other blade into her paw, she quickly slit the sides of her sari which would have hampered her in her fight. Lucky for her, the sudden display of delicately-shaped legs gave her two opponents a moment of pleasurable pause until the she-wolf crashed into the first and sent him reeling backwards into a sconce dangling from the wall.

Now, Teklara wasn't much of a fighter, but she had learned from Vyrli, as well as from some of the Mezaric warriors how to defend herself. The prospect that something might be wrong with Vyrli gave her the extra strength she needed, and any qualms she might have had about killing these wolves were lost to her.

The wolf she had knocked into the wall was slow to get up, and while his companion was still shaking himself out of his shock, Teklara jumped forward and slashed the thin blade across the downed wolf's throat. He fell with a gurgle and dropped his spear. Teklara caught the shaft with her footpaw and flicked it into her paw. She spun to face the last wolf and yelped as he swung his sword down at her.

Teklara ducked away from the blow and brought her spear up to parry it. As expected, the blade cut the wooden shaft in half, nearly knocking poor Teklara off of her footpaws. Still, she hefted the two pieces, and attacked with the spearpoint, catching the male on his sword arm. He yelped and started to drop the weapon. When it seemed like he would keep hold of it, Teklara slammed the wooden part of her spear down on his arm, cracking his wrist. He yelped then yowled when the normally gentle Teklara hit him across the face with the metal point. Blood splattered across the floor, and he fell back, clutching his gushing muzzle.

Teklara panted and moved forward, aiming to stab the spear through his stomach. She didn't notice the dagger until it was too late. As her spear took him in the chest, the wolf plunged a short blade into the she-wolf's stomach, and shoved her backwards into a bookshelf. Teklara yelped as her back collided with the shelves. She slumped down to her knees, clutching the short weapon with now bloody paws. With a whimper, she tossed the dagger aside and held her bleeding stomach while her opponent's eyes glazed over.

Teklara fell into a state of shock, and wasn't even aware Romulus had come to her aid until he pressed his cloth against her wound. Teklara hissed in pain, her eyes watering both in agony and despair.

“We need a healer."

“We need a miracle," she gasped and looked up at him miserably. "Lehvalek is falling.”

Any other words were silenced as the doors swung open again. Teklara tensed at first, fearing that another barrage of wolves had come to kill them, but she sighed with a mixture of relief and concern as she noticed Vyrli's small form fighting against another wolf. The battle was brief, and when Vyrli came away, mostly unscarred, Teklara let a shaky smile touch her muzzle.

“Vyrli," Teklara whispered and started forward, but Romulus kept her in his arms, which was probably a good thing too. The moment she tried to move, her vision grew hazy, and her legs wobbled beneath her.

“I had to find you,” Teklara heard Vyrli say before she felt his paws catch hers. She let them fall away from the wound, her bloody fingers wrapping desperately around his. He felt so warm...or maybe she was just feeling cold. “Once I knew what was going on, I had to find you. I...I killed...others. Otahera no, are you hurt?”

Teklara managed a weak smile as she lifted a paw to touch Vyrli's cheek. “It is nothing, love," she tried to assure him, but her trembling voice betrayed her. "I am so glad to see you...”

The breath left her in a whoosh as another stab of pain washed over her. She staggered and felt warm paws grab her before she could hit the ground. The world spun, and it took her a moment to realize someone had swung her into his arms. The scent wasn't Vyrli, so she could only assume that it was Romulus. Weakly, Teklara rested her head against his chest, one paw still groping for Vyrli's.

“You need to bring her to a healer. She’ll...she’ll die otherwise.”

"Vyrli....don't leave," Teklara heard herself say as if from a far off place. The rest of the conversation, if there was any, faded away from her as she slipped in and out of consciousness. Her body was in shock and doing its best to fight off the wound. She barely came around again when she felt Vyrli snap something around her neck.

“Praise Otahera that Petra took this off after dinner. It may be able to buy you safety with the lesser clans.”

Teklara blinked watery eyes open and stared at her beloved mate-to-be and frowned. So they could find safe passage? Not him? Suddenly, she realized Vyrli wasn't coming with them. "Vyrli," she rasped and reached out to him. "Vyrli, no, no!"

Romulus did his best to shush her so they wouldn't be found, and it was fortunate that Teklara was weak enough that she couldn't even fight out of his arms. She stared after her mate, her mouth open in a silent cry of protest, then suddenly the world went black.

When she next awoke, she felt like she was bobbing up and down as if on a boat. Her stomach felt horrible, and something held her securely to a warm chest. The wind was cold and bit at her already chilled cheeks and her numb ears. Teklara moaned softly and lifted her eyes up to Romulus.

"Rom...?" she whispered and just barely turned her heard. She realized that they were actually on a horse. How or when Romulus had found it, she didn't know, but she was grateful. At least she wasn't being forced to run or walk. The she-wolf shivered against him and hid her face away from the wind.

"Where's Vyrli?" she asked in a voice tinged with pain.

************

Petra awoke to the dull throb of her heartbeat drumming in her ears. Every inch of her body ached, though at the moment, her head hurt the worst. The she-wolf grimaced and flicked her ears back against the sounds echoing in the room...or wherever she was. There was a clank of what she assumed was a mug, followed by the rattling of dice thrown over a table. This was quickly followed by a mixture of cheering and groaning, which nearly sent Petra's already sore head reeling.

The she-wolf released a muffled groan and slowly opened her eyes. To her surprise, only one actually worked. The other felt swollen, and after a moment, she remembered the fist that had flown at her face and put her under. Petra blinked against the harsh glare of lantern and torch light which nearly blinded her. Her vision was blurry for a moment, and when she could finally see, she wished she was still unconscious.

She found herself locked in a cell with thick metal bars. The ground was cold and spotted with chunks of hay that prisoners could use for a bed, or just to stave off the chill. An experimental tug on her wrists told Petra she was still bound, but differently than she had been before. She peered up at her arms which were chained over her head to a thick ring in the wall. Petra tried to growl in frustration, but her captors had yet to remove the gag. With a frustrated snort, she forced her weary legs to shift beneath her, and she rose just enough to bring her muzzle to her good wrist. A few flicks of her claw freed her of the gag, but even that small movement stole what strength Petra still had left. She fell to her knees and gasped in pain as her broken wrist jerked in the bonds.

By Otahera....what's happened?

A quiet rustling beside her gave her a start. Petra glanced to her left and blinked in surprise when she saw Evaria locked in the same cell. She could see that she-wolf was covered in blood, but she couldn't tell if it belonged to her, or someone else.
"Evar-ia?" she whispered then coughed. Her throat felt raw and sore, most likely courtesy of the whip that had nearly strangled her into unconsciousness. She shot a glare at the foreign wolves huddled around a table just outside of their cell then turned her attention back to the she-wolf. "Are you all right? What happened?"

She doubted Evaria would have any better understanding of their predicament than Petra, but she had to know. Confusion quickly switched to fear as she realized Zill wasn't in the prison with her. She looked around nervously, remembering the fight, but not recalling whether he had escaped or been captured. Petra bit back a worried whine, instead fighting to keep a brave face even when her heart pattered as quickly as a frightened rabbit's.

Outside of the cell, the one that had named himself Cyrus paced beside the table. He shot a glance at the dice game that some of the wolves were playing as a little celebratory treat for completing their mission. Most would be celebrating in other ways, but this group was in charge of guarding the prisoners. Cyrus flicked his ear and sneered as he noticed that Petra was awake. The little upstart. He still wanted to blacken her other eye or else ask his master if she could "belong" to him, but he knew better than to do so. He left the two wolves to their own devices and moved towards Zill's prison, a malicious smile on his face.

"Seems we interrupted something rather...personal," he teased, a mocking smile on his face. He leaned against the bars and narrowed his eyes coldly. "Where is your bavitch of a goddess now, hm? Somehow I don't think Otahera will be blessing you and your pretty little she-wolves any longer."

****

Near the entrance of the Keep, a cloaked figure made his way quickly inside, guided by a few of the "new" guards. The wolf tugged his cloak closer, hoping that he didn't run into any familiar faces other than the beasts he had helped to storm this place. If word got out of his betrayal, well, Otahera and his parents would have his head, not to mention the rest of the clans and tribes. He held his blade tightly as he made his way inside, eager to speak with the leader who was no doubt taking stock of his prisoners now.

"The dungeons?" he asked of one of the wolves.

A female smirked and led him down the stairs to the prison. "This way, lord," she said almost mockingly which gave the cloaked beast a slight moment of pause. That was not...promising, but all the wolves here knew quite well what would happen to them should they lay a paw on him. He had his own agents intermingled among the troops, and he knew he could trust them to back him should there be a betrayal.

******

Far from the betrayal, and far from the two wolves escaping into the night, Oonah sat up with a gasp. A furred blanket fell from her shoulders as she moved, her eyes staring blankly at a hazy figure standing in the corner of her room.

"Up, daughter," the figure whispered in a feminine voice. "Thy kin has need of thee."

Oonah blinked a few times, and the apparition vanished before her.

"Oonah?" her mate asked in a groggy voice.

Without responding, Oonah threw herself off of her pallet and grabbed her blade and a furred cloak. Something had gone dreadfully wrong....

Why else would a messenger of Otahera have visited her?

Ooc: apparently inspiration struck lol