Shadow - Winters Moon

A long growl surfacing from the coal coated males throat as he rose swiftly from his small spot in which he had took a rest. He huffed and ruffled his coat with a sharp shake. His ears pricking up bolt upright as he nodded to Yehki having been informed to take some of the pack members to the other side in which the Alphas were not running. He howled softly, loud enough for other pack members to hear. "The Alphas need us!" He bellowed. "Koa, wake the others and follow immediately. Keanna, take the pups to the large den and wait. Do NOT move till the Alphas or myself signal" Shadow instructed with a grumble. He was ready for this. He could smell the scent of a male and female on the wind. His lip up curling in an aggressive manner as he instantly slammed his paws into the ground, swiftly turning on his heals and bolting into the distance with Zero and Flora the scouts of the pack by his side, also his fellow hunter Tristan. His heckles were risen as he and the others bolted straight for the opposing side to their Alphas approach. Shadow scented the air as he slowed down to a trot, he could smell his Alpha and Luna on the wind along with the scents of the unknown wolves. He growled and howled loudly as a signal to the Alpha pair, Flora, Sero and Tristan flanking him. They were as ready as ever.

---

Evie - Winters Moon Pack

Evie growled nervously as she nudged herself against her Mate, whining lightly as she didnt like the way this could go. Her ears and tail upright in a dominant stance as she did not wish to come across as weak, especially for a Luna. She growled lightly and nipped Farkases shoulder as she kept close to him, the feel of her mates fur against her own calming her somewhat. She growled and stuck by her beloved. Heckles risen as she felt the tensity around her. Farkas nodded gently and gave Evi an affectionate and reassuring lick to her muzzle to show it was alright, she was safe with him. The pair stopped their advance as they awaited the signal from Shadow, their best male hunter. Evies ears rotating like they were on swivel balls. She growled instantly as she heard the loud howl from their hunter Shadow. Evie nodded to her mate and stuck close by him. Things were about to get serious..

---

Snow - Stardust Vale

Snows ears prick up in alert at the several howls she had heard in the brief time Pan was gone with Sequoia. She growled as she could recognise only Pans howl. The others foreign to her. She whined as she bolted upright. Pacing once more in worry as she could hear the exchanged howls between whom she would guess; the other pack. She barked to Rose and Bane. "I am going to check on Pan and Sequioa. This doesnt feel right!" She blurted and thundered her dainty paws against the snow, growling as she rushed through the trees, jumping over the odd root, tree stump and fallen branch. Howling softly so Pan and Sequoia knew she was on her way. Her tail flickered in the breeze which was caused by her rushing through the trees, weaving swiftly. Her paws may be small but as a swift scout she could cover ground quickly, right now this was just what they needed. Snow scented the air, she could smell Pan and Sequoia but, she could smell the two alphas, 3 others wolves and more on the way. Skidding to a halt as she eyed up the hill before her, bounding quickly up the incline she nudged Pans left hind leg and Sequoias right hip. "Im here..W-Whats happening.. I smell many.." She whispered softly awaiting news.

Wintersmoon -Blynn
Blynn ran as fast as he could with the rest of the pack meeting up with Joules Tyra Shade Yehki Shadow Tristan Koa Flora Lenny as well as the two alpha's Farkas and Evie. He followed the orders of surrounded the Two Alpha's in a semicircle ready to attack with the rest of the pack if things went wrong They had the advantage of being downwind so they could mask their numbers a bit, though it might not give them a great advantage. it was still one in his books and could be the difference between life and death. . he Could see Three wolves sat just past the edge of their border, Though not breaking any rules he knew that Farkas and Evie did not like taking chances. He knew himself that he was a good fighter but he needed to be there for the good of the pack, Though he would rather just attend to the wounded. but every wolf must help protect if called upon. and this was one such moment. he heart was racing. mind full of thoughts. what could go wrong, how many could get hurt. were there any other wolves near by ready to launch a surprise attack. And then there was silence. He saw Farkas walk forward and stand on a rock looking at the Three unknown wolves that stood before him. No one dared utter a breath. Now this is where things matter. Here is what could be make or break.

---

Wintersmoon - Farkas

Farkas gave a quick nod and reassuring lick to his Mates muzzle "stay here let me find out what they want, if things go south" Farkas paused "well you know what to do"
Before he made his advance Farkas waited for the rest of his pack to get in position. He knew that his could go wrong quickly but it reassured him that the rest of his pack was ready to attack. He looked over his shoulder to his mate who was waiting ready but he could tell by her eyes that she was worried and on edge, And honestly he didn't blame her. he was too, but he had to put that to the side. He needed to lead His Pack. He then looked over to Shadow who was sulking in the distance. gave the signal that the pack was ready.
With a deep breath he made his way onto a small rock outcrop. And stared straight at the Three unknow wolves. Before he spoke he sniffed the air and got a faint smell of other wolves that was carried by the wind.
He looked straight at the only male in this party, as he knew that he would be the one to challenge his right to lead.
"I am Farkas Wintermoon Alpha of these lands"he side with pride, Everytime he said that sentence he could always feel a sense of pride, as he was honoring his father and his father before him, all the way to the forming of the pack many moons ago
"What is your purpose here. Speak quickly" He snarled. Though he did not want to anger or provoke these wolves he still had to assert his dominance, As far as he was aware there was a threat to HIS Land and pack and it was his Duty to protect them at any cost.

The Male spoke "I am Pantalaimon Bane Beta of The Pack Stardust vale from the East, I bring a message from our Alpha Wolf Bane and ask for Your Counsel"

Farkas studied the Male wolf that identified himself as Pantalaimon Bane, He recognized the Bane, And he knew of the Stardust vale pack. He knew that they were good fighters and survivors but Wolf Bane The other Alpha wanting to seek counsel with him? That was most worrying indeed. He could think of no reason why he would want to speak to him other than to challenge him and take over his lands to expand their territory.
He looked over to Evie and signaled for her to come over to him, During a fight he always tried to stay close to his mate. To protect her, Though she could fight for herself beautifully, his caring nature often made him extremely protective over her And then he signaled to the rest of the pack that they should prepare for an attack. This could never be good.

"If your 'Alpha' Wanted to speak to us, why didn't he come alone instead of sending Three wolves?!" He sneered "Sounds to me he sent you to scout ahead. toss up our numbers so he knew what you were up against" Farkas' voice was getting more and more aggressive. to the point he was almost spitting as he spoke. His temper was starting to rise. his Dominant and protective side had taken over completely. He knew that this could break down quickly.

Wolf Bane - Stardust Vale Pack

Bane's tail dropped instantly after he growled at Rose, watching her reaction he felt the undeniable heat of guilt swirl through his chest. H felt guilty for losing his temper with her...it wasn't like him to lose his temper with her of all wolves. His ears flicked out to the side and he looked away, his previous aggression seeping away though there was now a tenseness in the air. Losing the plot is unacceptable for an alpha Bane, pull yourself together He looked over at Tarkutt as the dark gray pelted wolf spoke to him, well the floor in front of him. "...I think we're all suffering from it" He murmured, nodding his head at Tarkutt glumly watching as Tarkutt delicately approached Rose he took a few steps back allowing his head to hang low for a moment in remorse before he moved to the edge of the group.

"Did you hear the alpha's reply?" Dakota asked moving over to Bane, his speech muffled by the vines gripped between his teeth.Bane looked up at Dakota in sudden surprise, before nodding his head curtley. "Explains your reaction" The wolf grinned at Bane, lowering his head as Bane grumbled at him. “We won’t last long out here” Bane growled, dropping his head a moment before lifting it again just in time to hear what Snow said. “Snow! No!” Bane roared jumping in her direction, but she had already gone he skidded to a halt looking up at the treeline as another howl reached his ears, he stood looking in the direction of trees his hackles raising. “Dakota get those vines around that bark, we may need to move soon” He told Dakota who lowered his head and moved over to Artemis. “Come on Pan...you can do this” Bane murmured to himself beginning to pace in front of the pack, hoping they’d think twice before trying to go through him he couldn’t afford any more of them to run off like that.

Pantalaimon- Stardust Vale Pack

Pan’s ears flickered uncertainly, he could smell more wolves...maybe the whole pack was gathering, it made a shiver run down his spine. Had they sensed who he was? He looked at Sequoia his eyes betraying his internal turmoil, he wasn’t afraid of the other wolves but he was concerned. So much was riding on both of them. His ears shot back as he heard a soft howl behind him, instantly recognizing it as Snow’s. He growled and looked over his shoulder that was the last thing they needed! Another howl added to the confusion, telling the opposing pack there was more of them close by he prayed they wouldn’t take it as he was gathering reinforcements. He kicked his hind leg in surprise as Snow nudged him luckily she had already moved his ears flicked back and his lip twitched up in surprise. “What are you doing here?” He asked her, his muzzle creasing with further worry blood dribbled down the side of his muzzle dripping onto the snow.

“I don’t know, I called to them and this is their reaction. I suspect they’ve gathered around us...my guess either side of us, maybe all the way around behind us so they can ambush should they need to, cut off our escape or intercept the rest of the pack should they come” Pan questioned the tactics of the foreign pack. “Listen just stay close, keep your head down and let us handle this. I don’t want either of you getting hurt if there is to be blood spilt it will be mine” He instructed both females, a steely resolve to his tone as he spoke. Snow’s presence added to his growing unease his tail had raised again and he stood taller than before ears flicking as he heard another foreign howl. He could smell the alpha’s their scents assaulting his senses continuously, he could see them now as well they were waiting not far ahead of them. A mated pair from what he could tell, his sky blue eyes scanned between the trees around them but he couldn’t see any of the other wolves. Come on...let’s get this over with

That was when he saw the male Alpha approach, he watched him with glowing sky blue eyes, standing stoically between the two females accompanying him. His ears twitched as the alpha announced who he was, Pan felt his tail sway behind him. I know who you are...I merely pray you prove my ancestors wrong He cleared his throat and stepped forward, keeping his head slightly lowered though it was a struggle, he needed to prove he hadn’t come to challenge him. “I am Pantalaimon Bane Beta of The Stardust Vale pack from the South, I bring a message from our Alpha Wolf Bane and ask for Your Counsel" He spoke confidently, his ears flicking back. He wasn’t sure how many wolves were watching him he had an idea near enough the whole of the Wintersmoon Pack was. His eyes lifted watching as Farkas signalled for his mate to come to his side, Pan felt unease prickle along his spine, he daren’t steal a glance of Sequoia and Snow, though he took a step back sweeping his tail against Sequoia’s shoulder before sweeping it to touch Snow reassuring himself they were still close to him. His claws dug into the ground and the muscles on his hindquarters tensed visibly through his pelt as Farkas became increasingly aggressive, he was desperately trying not to react his inner alpha was screaming at him for enduring the insult

“He did not come alone because I insisted it would be unwise. We were not sent to scout your numbers, if that was the case would I have alerted you to my presence so early?” Pan spoke calmly and directly. “I speak on behalf of my Alpha as his Beta, beside me is another Beta of our pack as well as one of our scouts. We have not come to fight you Farkas, we have come to speak with you not as enemies but as a neutral party...much has transpired to the south, much you are unaware of” Pan continued speaking his voice was strong and calming nothing about his actions could be seen as aggressive or challenging. “Why am I here? I am here to beg sanctuary from you. Our Homeland has been taken from us, our pack has been destroyed, there are few of us left most are injured and we have no-where else to turn” Pan explained, his eyes dropping to the snow at his feet as more blood dripped from his muzzle onto the floor. “You see? I’m not here to challenge you, I don’t want to take your territory from you. I don’t want to fight any of you; I just want you to hear our cause. And once you’ve listened I will accept your decision though if its blood you wish then I can only offer you my own” Pan finished, allowing the paired alpha’s to take in what he had just said. He wasn’t sure if Farkas would be aware of the long standing feud between their bloodlines, to spill a Bane’s blood would probably be a pleasure to him though Pan was secretly hoping Farkas didn't see the point of the feud much like Pan himself didn't.

Stardust Vale- Tarkutt

Tarkutt simply nodded understandingly at Bane before carefully patching the bite on Rose's shoulder with the leaves he'd brought. He knew that she would need to remain calm or else risk losing more blood than she would be able to endure, but now with Snow's sudden departure he was feeling slightly panicked himself. He jumped back on his paws, his hackles raised and his ears straight in the air. His breathing and heart had picked up with fear. "We need to find out what's going on," he said, as his pupils shrank to pinpricks. "Bane, perhaps you should go and see what's happening. Maybe t-t-they want to speak to a l-leader." Tarkutt's legs trembled as spoke, and his attention suddenly returned to the ragged, ugly wound on the end of his tail. Plopping himself down into the snow with a defeated air, he began to lick hesitantly at it. The very tip of it had been ripped off, leaving a single vertebra exposed under clumps of fur clogged with blood. Between licks, he continued. "I can take care of the rest of the pack's wounds, and then I think I very much need to tend to myself." He stood up again. He almost couldn't think straight.

Winter's Moon- Yehki

Yehki stood with her tail sticking straight out behind her, staring at the three wolves. She snarled and bared her teeth, her angry expression wrinkling her muzzle so much that its deformity was almost not visible. This was, of course, on purpose: She didn't want to risk these enemies seeing her weakness. Listening to Farkas speak, her snarl only grew; a low growl escaped from deep in her chest and shook her whole body.
Then the Beta of the other pack had spoken, and this had made Yehki's anger fade, her hackles lying just a little bit flatter along her back. Their pack, destroyed? Surely the Winter's Moon pack would be noble enough to take them in, as they had so kindly taken her in? She felt her tail fall back to its normal, neutral position. Her crooked mouth opened briefly to speak, but she shut it again, deciding that it wasn't her place to intervene with such serious business.

Nakia ~ Winters Moon

Nakia awoke in the middle of the pack rushing from their home. Pups peered out from their safety, two caretakers ushering them back in. She trained her eyes to the corner of her den. The elder that laid there was finally able to sleep comfortably after Nakia had spent all night at his side with poppy seeds to nurse the ache in his lungs that occurred each time he took a breath. She rose to her paws, habitually checking if she needed to hunt any herbs on her way there or back. Something in the back of her mind told her that she wouldn't be needed, that the danger everyone believed to be just that, wasn't. Blynn had seemed overly eager, though, so she assumed he knew something she didn't. The last available wolf had made their way from the camp. As Nakia made her way to the other side of the clearing, she noted Nash laying just outside the pup's den, as if on watch. She had been asked to stay in while she recuperated from her injured back leg from trying to take on a badger alone mere days before. "Will you keep an eye on the elder inside?" Nakia motioned back to where she had come from. "If he wakes and complains of any pain, just give him poppy seeds. Nash huffed and nodded, obviously not too happy that she was missing all of the action. She licked Nash's cheek before slowly following behind the rest of the pack, staying a couple paces from the crowd.

Nakia smelled them before she could see anything through the undergrowth. Another group of wolves, covered in the scent of blood with an underlying scent of lemon grass, which only grew south of where Winters Moon lived. The wolves before her split two ways, as if surrounding something. She focused her eyes a few meters in front of her, being able to make out the dominant stances of both Farkas and Evie, tailed by what appeared to be Yehki. The other pack didn't seem to have any aggressive means for being their, but wolves were unpredictable. Her hackles rose, instinctively, but she pulled her back legs underneath her into a sitting position, her tail curled around her feet. If her alphas need her, they would call to her but otherwise, she'd stay where she was and not try to make the confrontation any worse than it already seemed.

Rose ~ Stardust Vale Pack

Rose slowly opened her eyes as she felt Tarkutt tending to her wounds. She looked at Bane and saw him hanging his head in remorse, making her eyes droop against the side of her head as she whimpered a bit to him to tell him that she was sorry. Once Tarkutt was done she slowly padded over to the fallen tree again, jumping up on it and turning around numerous times on it before she finally laid down. She rested her head on her paws, looking up at the sky and wondering why she was doing everything wrong. She wanted to put a smile on Bane's face....... No, everyone's face, but she didn't know how. They all looked so hurt...... So damaged....... So out of commission...... So....... Sad about what had happened to them and their loved ones. How could she ever make them happy again?

She closed her eyes, letting a couple tears run down her red fur that covered her cheeks, whimpering and wishing she could help instead of lay here and stay calm. Her eyes shot open though as she caught a whiff of the alpha, having a really good smeller so that she could identify both herbs and other wolves. "Bane......." She murmured, now quite scared indeed. "They're not to far from here......." She whimpered, hiding her head under her paws and starting to whimper louder, trying not to submit to the alpha and what seemed to be his alpha mate.

Evie - Winters Moon

Evie grumbled lowly as she wandered to her mates side, her dainty paws coming to rest inline with his. Ears and tail bolting up and swaying showing her dominance. Her eyes cast over the three wolves from the nearby pack, grumbling a little as she noticed the male and two females, male being before the females. Protectiveness could be seen on this front. Standing boldly beside her mate she showed no fear. Ears swiveling like radar dishes as she kept ears open for signals, extra howls or feet. A small grumble erupting from her throat as she watched the male; now known as Pantalaimon Bane, glancing from her mate to behind her then the three wolves. She grumbled lightly as she began to feel the intensity ramp up higher and higher. Her fur prickling with the slow build up of anticipation. Her eyes shimmering in the light as she kept her gaze flickering from time to time between her beloved and the three unfamilair wolves.

The way things looked was a little hard to tell as to whether a fight would break out or not. Her eye narrowed as she looked to the females. She wrinkled her nose up to see a white female stood with the two other wolves she did not know. She growled a little in displeasure as she hoped Shadow wouldnt see the white female. She knew he had lost a sibling, snow white female such as the one before her and her beloved mate. Scooting a little closer to him, her fur brushing his she felt a little more at ease.

---

Shadow - Winters Moon.

Watching the three wolves he noticed his Alphas signal. Nodding back to him he stood in wait for the next move. His lip curling up in a slightly agressive manner as he didnt enjoy waiting nor the anticipation. Paddling the ground below with his large paws he began to studythe three wolves. One male. Two females. He huffed lightly. Why on earth would two females accompany a male if they were after a fight for the pack lands. He growled lightly as he grew more impatient, but he still none the less, waited for his Alphas call. He watched as his Luna; Evie, stepped up to be beside Farkas, Shadow knew the pair would stick together and fight for one anothers safety should it break out. Farkas being the protective male he was would not let a single paw be laid on his Luna without the wolf paying dearly for it.

---

Snow - Stardust Vale.

Standing beside Pan she whined lightly watching the approaching Alphas. Her ears swiveling like radars as she kept a close listen out for any extra paws in either direction; behind or infront. Her gut telling her things would pan out alright, but how the situation looked, she didnt know whether to trust this. Her tail flickered across the floor as she kept it low. Snow wasnt a dominant female in any regard so it was easy for her to show submissiveness. She licked Pans hind leg and laid beside him in hope to ease her own worry and slow down her ever climbing heart rate. She pawed at the ground as she lay in wait.

Farkas -Wintersmoon

Farkas was Listening closely to what this Pantalaimon Bane Was saying. Studying his tone his expression and body language. He Admits that The Wintermoons' and the Bane's have never been one to be kind to each other, After all they are neighboring pack's whose land offers things which the other doesn't.
For example Their land had game all year round Were as His didn't but His had more protections as packs didn't want to risk the ice cold conditions and lack of food during the Winter months
"So let me get this straight" He Snarled "Your Pack wants to Seek sanctuary within My Borders Near my Pack, Eat our game which i might add is scarce the Winter Seasons, And i'm supposed to think that this is not some elaborate attempts to expand your borders?!" Farkas' pelt was starting to stand on end as he got more aggressive. With speed he jumped down in front of Pantalaimon. His spoke softly "Put yourself in my paws here Dog. If i came to your Valy saying that with our families history, Wouldn't you think it was an Attempt to take over?"
Farkas started to pace back and forth. He could sense that His pack was on edge. Non of them himself included wanted a fight. but all would do so if it meant protecting their land and pups back at the den.

---

blynn - Wintersmoon

Blynn was Hid just behind a Fallen tree branch as he watched and listen to the tense discussion between Farkas and the male, His eyes scanned over the strange wolves studying their body language

When he heard the Male say "....much has transpired to the south, much you are unaware of" As Soon as he heard that he noticed on the Small White female wolves that her shoulder that there was a nasty looking Slash that had stained her pure white Pelt a deep crimson red. His eyes lit up and he soon realized that what the Male was saying much of ment a fight of some description and that they needed help with retaking their homeland or something. But what happened exactly. His Shaman Instincts had kicked in almost instantly when he saw the slash. He wanted to take a look at it and treat it, He could tell that some Yarrow leaves had already been placed upon the wound by they had done what they could and the wound needed some proper healing. He Need to tell the Alpha's what he could see but that would be disobeying orders. He thought about it but this was a tense situation and he knew for certain Farkas would probably strip him of everything and make him an omega. or worse banishment. Death was also a possibility but that would be quick Unlike the slow painful dying alone hungry and cold of Banishment.
His mind was racing. He lifted a Paw and started to extend it forward but retracted it quickly and took a deep breath. "No" he whispered to himself. "Don't.do.it"
He could see Shadow out the corner of his eye and turned to face him letting out a small howl for him to come over. If he could tell Him what he saw of the young female scout He might be able to get Shadow to tell The Alpha's

---

Artemis- Stardust vale

Her Vision was blurred and she could feel her body pressed against a cold hard surface "W-where am i?" she tried to lift her head but didn't have the strength As she tried to stand up again the pain shot through her body and she collapsed back down whimpering in pain "Tarkutt?...Bane?" H-hello" Every time she spoke pain would over come her but she had never felt more alone and in pain..she needed someone..anyone

Sequoia watched the events of the meeting unfold before her, her mind's workings silencing her tongue. She trusted her mind more than anything, and in a situation as delicate as this, her mind would be her best friend, she simply needed to give it time to process and produce a plan that would not end in bloodshed. The arrival of Snow, one of the pack's scouts, did nothing to calm her nerves, rather deepen the concerned furrows of her brow as she saw a third death if the Wintersmoon wolves decided to attack. Her tail swayed about anxiously, her fur flickering out of nerves. She heard the aggression in the alpha's call. She calculated and convinced herself the rest of his pack would be surrounding them at this very moment; there was no way an alpha would be foolish enough to approach strangers alone with an entire pack at his disposal. She acknowledged Snow with a quick nuzzle on her packmate's neck, the scent of the scout familiar and calming to her.

Quoia wished she were standing closer to Pan, his scent was as familiar as her own and his fur's texture was comforting and calming. While she appreciated having two packmates at her side, her logics told her it was foolish for Snow to have come. Nothing but a full, healthy pack could stand a chance against the wolves of these lands, and for Snow to have come here, it was nothing more than a third guaranteed death if the meeting disintegrated into a violent affair.

She watched the alpha approach, she listened to the exchange between Farkas and Pan. She observed the alpha female approach and make her dominance clear. She listened closely to the opposing alpha's words and defences. He made many clear and reasonable points. She nodded to herself, seeing now that the wolf before her was a wise and considerate wolf, taking great care in the protection and well-being of his pack. This wolf's hesitancy told her that while he was clearly capable of intense aggression, he would not summon it without dire cause. He wanted to protect his pack, that was his goal. He did not want to destroy strangers, he did not want to harm others, he wanted to protect his pack and that would be the reason he acted out in the ways she feared. This was good, she felt more confident now after listening to the exchange between the two males.

When she found a break in the conversation between the two, she stepped forward, keeping her tail low and avoiding eye contact, despite the burning annoyance that pulsed through her at the level of submission she offered to an alpha not her own. She spoke with respect, a cool tone that insinuated nothing but submission. "Alpha Farkas of the Wintersmoon Pack, noble Mate of the Alpha and Alpha Female, I am Sequoia, beta of the Stardust Vale Pack" she said, addressing each of the two before her with terms of respect. "I would pay my respect and my admiring to your character as an alpha. It is clear that your pack's safety and the captivity of these lands for your future generations is of the utmost importance to you. Your accusations are understandable, expectable, and admirable. If you did not consider the possibility of myself and my pack-mates being a threat, you would not likely be the leader of these pack lands that you are. But it is clear you have long ruled these lands with skill and intellect."

She lowered her head a little more, showing her submission further to the pair as she approached slowly. When she was no more than 2 feet away, she lowered herself to the ground, bowing deeply, showing vulnerability as the jaws of the alpha's gained clear shots at her main arteries at the nape of her neck. Inside she was half terrified, but outside she kept her cool. This was not the time for fear to overrule reason.

"Your duty is to your pack, and this will always be respected. We understand that trust is not default, but earned and proven and re-proven time and again. We do not ask for your trust and belief at this time, for it would be an insult to assume an alpha of such bountiful lands would feed into the words of any stranger that crosses his borders. The truth cannot be proven at this time. All that stands at this moment is the word of three wolves, my personal word, which I offer to you on the terms of my own life. We have come into the lands of a well known, well established pack, we three, a number so puny, and we came with certain knowing that our lives would be at the jaws of the Wintersmoon Pack. I would hope you would not assume so lowly of us, by nature, that we are foolish enough to think we could walk in here and hold out ground. No, we have put our lives on the line to seek counsel with you and your mate. What reason would have have to enter into your lands unprotected, call out to you in the open light of the day, sit and wait on the top of an unsheltered hill, and wait silently as your pack surrounds us and you approach? What reason to endanger our lives so but to save our lives in the first place? Our lands are gone, our pack is injured, we will die without refuge. You speak wisely in noting the lack of prey in the winter months, and we understand your position. But if you help us, we will earn our keep. We will strengthen your pack during our stay. We will fight for you as our leader, we will hunt at your side to feed your pack for but enough to survive off for our own."

She looked up, now sure she could make eye contact without offence from her submissive place on the earth. "We will respect whatever decision you make, and we will meet whatever demands you put into place that we might prove to you that we mean no harm. Our alpha is injured, like most of our pack. We came here as ambassadors for our alpha. We came to beg for your mercy, in whatever form you see fit. A cycle of the moon, two, whatever time you might offer us in your lands, if any at all, will be forever appreciated and never forgotten. Alpha's of the Wintersmoon Pack, we ask for your mercy."

Evie - Winters Moon.

Evie watched as her mate became more and more aggrivated and on edge as he explained in a rather aggressive tone, that of their current ways. Game being sparse during rough winter, their pack being rof main priority. Yet, he still had not called the pack to attack be done with the three wolves. Her sea blue hues scanning behind the three vulnerable wolves. Awaiting her mate and the male; Pan, to finish she soon was took aback as the female still stood spoke. Kind, soft and true words uttered from this female. Already Evie took a liking to her attitude, wording and body language, yet she did not show this, weaknesses could not be seen now. Stepping forward she lowered her muzzle to the females head slowly before rising it back to a height above her. "Alphess Evie of the Winters Moon pack." She said softly to the female more so, but also more than loud enough for the two accompanying her to hear Her head returning to gaze between the male Pan and her beloved mate.

"Our pack is of upmost importance. As you would know the safety of a pack unit to the Alpha or Alphas is the one thing that drives them. Our pack, much as I imagine with any pack, is a close knit family unit whom work together for one anothers survival. Harmony and happiness being key elemants with any working pack." Her ocean orbs glancing to the three wolves seeing if they were paying attention. "I understand that you have lost your land, some fellow pack mates if I'm correct and you mearly wish to seek refuge. Loyalty towards your Alpha and Pack Mates shows me you are honourable in this regard. Please, understand we have the best interests of our family at heart, I myself would do anything to have my pack strive once more if it were me in your situation..." she trailed off a little as her tail flickered in the air, dominance still clear.

"I shall speak with my mate aside if he wishes. But, you shall not be left unmonotored." She spoke sternly. "My finest hunter. Along with a few fellow pack mates, shall come watch you, should Farkas wish to take my offer upon speaking aside. I warn you. I will not be hesitant in calling attack upon you should you see the time aside as an oportunity!" her lip upcurling at this thought. Her heckles high as she stood proud. "I am, Alphess Evie Wintermoon. I will protect what is mine." With that, she stepped back, standing proud as she looked at the three wolves before her. Ocean hues shimmering with passion as she watched them carefully. Never really one for strong speach like things, Evie was rather proud of this one. Her passion for the pack glowing almost from her.

---

Shadow - Winters Moon.

His ears pricked up as he heard the familiar howl of Blynn in the distance. Nodding to Trsitan as he would take charge for now of Flora and Zeros actions should either Alpha call the signal for attack. Bolting over to Blynn, keeping himself in the density of the trees, hidden from the pack and their little visitors. Skigging to a halt beside Blynn he nodded. "Yes? You called?" His pelt quickly heaving up and down as he regained his breath. Awaiting the words or question from Blyn..

---

Snow - Stardust Vale.

Remaining still as the Alpha adressed Pan and informed him with his agressive tone of the packs situation and such, she dare not move. Her tail didn't even flicker. Lay flat in the snow she mearly listened as the events unfolded before her. Ears turning constantly for new sounds, she awaited the outcome, terrified for her life. She was proud of herself for being with her Pack Mates, she never felt she did enough. Surely fighting for the right to live for her pack would fill the hole for her just before she watched the last of her world tumble down, should this be the case. Snow was ready to watch her future diminish should it be this choice.

Wolf Bane - Stardust Vale Pack

Bane turned to look at Tarkutt, he didn’t blame the young wolfs reaction to the imposing pack. Neither did he really blame him for his doubts, he did however grumble at Tarkutt’s suggestion. Bane had taken a hold of the situation very quickly when the homeland was attacked; he had not been an alpha 5 hours ago...just a Beta on his way up in the pack. He looked over at Tarkutt, his ears focused on the opposing pack; the smell of the other alpha’s made his tail raise and his hackles to stand on end. “No, they will converse with the Beta’s” He said simply to the other wolf. “If I had marched into their territory with all of you, it would have been chaotic. Walking in alone would have been too risky...Sequoa and Pan are the negotiators; they will speak with the alphas with respect with less resistance to their dominance. Sequoia will turn them I have no doubt. Pan will let us know the outcome...if it doesn’t work out we have no choice but to run, if it does then I will go to this pack. Until then we stay as we are...continue your work” Bane explained to Tarkutt, his ears swivelling to rest on Rose as she whimpered.

He hesitated for a moment before padding towards her, his movement a little tense as the scent of the opposing alpha’s and pack swept through the trees towards them carried by the wind. He reared up on his back legs resting a fore paw on the bark by Rose, he nosed her muzzle affectionately. “...it’ll be ok” Bane murmured softly. Before he dropped back down from the tree, his ears turning as Artemis called out, he flicked his ears back not wanting to leave Rose but doing so anyway. He moved over to Artemis coming in to her view he lowered his head nosing her scruff to reassure her of his presence. “Easy Art...” He murmured, lifting a paw and resting it on her shoulder, careful of her injuries. “Stay where you are, don’t try to move just yet” He instructed her, his words calming despite the apparent unease in his ice blue eyes which were focused on Rose. He was desperately trying to repress his temper, his patience was wearing very thin and he’d already failed twice at being an alpha today. He sat down next to Artemis, sitting so his scent would overpower the opposing packs scents. He looked up at Tarkutt who was cleaning his tail...what was left of it, he looked away quickly returning his gaze to the trees between them and the opposing pack.

Pantalaimon - Stardust Vale Pack

Pan watched Farkas carefully, he could see the rage inside the other male but he respected where it was coming from. Farkas was being a good alpha, although his aggressive stance he was making a few rational points. He barely managed to stop his lip raising as Farkas jumped forward landing in front of him, he tried to force his head to lower but his body wouldn’t obey him, his ear flicked back as he felt Snow lick at his hind leg, it was reassuring knowing where she was. Pan looked down at the floor as the alpha’s mate made her dominance known, he was about to speak again when he felt movement beside him, he turned his head just enough to watch Sequoia step forward. He watched her carefully so he was able to avoid eye contact with Farkas easier, his ears swivelled to focus on her as she spoke. He felt relief flood him as she seemed to easily address the opposing alphas with fluent charm and a submissive undertone, she was by far the best negitiotor he knew. He glanced at Farkas and his mate for a moment avoiding eye contact as he tried to drink in their reactions. However, he felt his stomach drop as Sequoia dropped her head and moved closer to the alpha’s, he wanted to close the distance between them instantly though he managed to stay where he was, tail lowering slowly as he watched both alpha’s, his entire body tensed as Sequoia went one step further and bowed deeply revealing the nape of her neck to the alpha.

He felt fear twist its vice like grip into his side and twist, he calculated how much force he would need to propel himself forward if the alpha went for Sequoia, his rational brain telling him even if he got to the alpha first it would not save either of his pack mates. His sky blue eyes watched Farkas closely carefully avoiding the alpha’s eye, as Sequoia continued to speak. He ground his teeth as Sequoia also offered her personal word on the terms of her own life, he strengthened his resolve...this is what they had come here for, they all knew there was a chance they would die here. He had to accept that outwardly and fight it internally, he held his breath as the female alpha stepped towards Sequoia and lowered her muzzle to her head. He only released the air in his lungs when she stepped away from her again, his ears pricking as she addressed them. His sky blue eyes focused on her feet so as to avoid eye contact, occasionally he would glance at Farkas as his mate spoke, he could sense she was strong and true...the only difference between her and Sequoia was her alpha status. Once he was able to associate with what she was saying he felt he had more control of his body, he lowered his tail stepping one leg forward he lowered his head down next to it bowing effectively to her. “We understand...thank you” Pan murmured to her, his ears flicking back as he forced himself to show more submission than before to Farkas who was stood close by. He stood back slowly, keeping his head down as he watched Sequoia hoping she would move back towards him as they waited for Farkas’s decision.

Stardust Vale- Tarkutt

Tarkutt nodded shakily at Bane's reply, he got up again and swished his tail out behind him, pretending it didn't hurt. He quickly trotted toward Artemis, nudging her muzzle in concern. "Try not to speak unless you need to," he advised gently. He picked a bit of clean snow from the ground and set it in front of the injured wolf. "It's not much, but wait for it to melt in your mouth if you're thirsty. When everything's sorted out--" he said this with a nervous gulp-- "I'll scrounge up some herbs that should numb up your wounds." On the bright side, if the Winter's Moon Pack didn't turn aggressive, Tarkutt was assured now that Artemis would most likely survive her wounds. He trotted toward the other members of the pack and started to tend to them; having something to do seemed to have a calming affect on him.

Winter's Moon- Yehki

Yehki continued to listen, uncertain of her stance on the issue. She pounded her front paws into the powdery snow as she had nothing else to do while she waited. What if it was a lie? She felt her teeth starting to show again. Her muscles were so tense they hurt, and she paced another couple times in a circle before stopping and looking at the strangers again.
"As long as you don't expect us to feed you," she grumbled rudely. When she realized she'd said this louder than she meant to, she sat back tensely and looked away, hoping to look as if she hadn't growled those words.

Blynn wintersmoon

As Shadow approached Blynn bowed his head slightly out of respect. After all he was higher than him. "Shadow, I wouldn't of called you here if it wasn't important but this could affect what's going on, That young White female wolf..she has a large wound on her shoulder that even from here i can tell wasn't from an accident.. I think they are telling the truth about them being attacked and losing their homeland, i know i can't just waltz up to Farkas or Evie and tell them how i feel..its not my place but Evie listens to you, and intern farkas listens to her.. Honestly think you should tell them what i can see, IF my gut is telling me right there are more badly injured and need proper help.."
He hoped that Shadow would listen to him and speak to the Alpha's. But he knew that it would be a tall ask due to his rank.

---

Farkas -Wintersmoon

He stood proud looking at the female that now spoke to him with his mate listening close. She made some good points and farkas was starting to think that they really did need help..but he couldn't shake the feeling of his protectiveness to His pack and his Mistrust for the Stardust Vale pack, Thats when his mate came over and asked to speak.
In situations like this he would only listen to her..her voice of reason and peace. He knew what the pack ment to her, After all it saved her life before. So it could save others.

"My love, though my heart goes out for them if what they say is true..i can't let them in our boarders..what if they attack the pups..or you? i wouldn't be able to live with myself if that happened." His voice still had a hint of aggression but now was filled with heartache And he brushed his muzzle against hers.
" I know that you feel the same slightly but i know you want to ask me to do what i really don't think is right..." his voiced trailed off as he had a flashback to the night they first met, She was wounded cold hungry, and lost. He was going to kill her, but he felt compassion, to this stranger, how could this be any diferent..yes there was more than them..but the situation was the same. He remembers how saving her and making sure she was apart of the pack, earned him respect as the Alpha and made him happy with his new friend and later on mate...

Sequoia let out a silent sigh of relief when the two alphas put some distance between themselves and her to discuss her plea. Knowing she had proven her respect, she rose reverently and backed up to her place at Pan's side, this time closing the distance between their sides and fully leaning on the wolf. Truthfully, that was one of the most difficult things she had ever done. To expose her vital arteries and offer such submission to other alphas? It was a torturous experience, but something in her instinct told her she wouldn't be harmed, and a part of her deeply respected the two already. She sat down, panting quietly to calm her nerves while the alphas spoke.

---

A black wolf lay in wait about a hundred yards away from the three strangers. His thick coat stood out against the snow, but the pine bed he was laying on beneath a tree offered him sufficient cover. It wasn't like the foreigners didn't know they were surrounded. Any fool should know that an alpha with a pack this large wouldn't face a stranger on his own. He glanced around at different locations staggered about the woods. He saw many of his packmates nestled into the landscape, laying in wait for any sign of quarrel from the low hill on which the exchange took place. He made eye contact with his fellow beta , Tyra, her white coat blending into the landscape with much more ease, her expression calm and cool. The hunters were scattered about at even intervals, some in view, others on the other side of the hill. Koa, one of the sentinels lay a few hundred yards away, just behind a thick bush. Even from this distance Shade could tell he was worrying about his mate and pups. The wolf was always worried about their safety, usually for no reason, but today, today Shade understood the concern.

Movement drew his attention to the hill once more. Farkas and Evie were moving away, he stretched his neck up a ways to get a clearer view of them. If anything happened to Farkas or Evie in his presence he would not be able to live with himself. Looking at the trio on the hill, he did not see much threat, IF the pack closed ground quickly enough. Farkas was a strong fighter and could hold his own, but should all three wolves choose to attack him at once, they could inflict irreparable damage to their leader before the hunters and even reached them. His tail flicked in aggravation. He was ordered to wait, and his alpha's word was law, both by word and by power. The weight of his leader's order fought a vicious war against his instincts and conscience within his mind. He readjusted his position, shaking his rump in anticipation as he padded the earth with his back paws, feeling for a perfect grip in case he had to bolt in a moment's notice. It was true, the pale female visitor had offered the ultimate submission to his leader, but his instincts still had its focus on the male. He had the figure of an alpha but his level of submission offered pointed more towards beta. Still, a formidably sized wolf was nothing to take lightly.

"This has been going on for far too long. Are we going to kill them or trust them?" he thought to himself, not enjoying the absence of information he currently possesed.

Shadow - Winters Moon

Shadows gaze cast over where Blynn had cast the comments to. His gaze scanning over the three wolves stood in the distance. His keen sight soon picking over the wolves. A male stood before his Alpha and Luna., a female laid down submissively to the mated pair. Her main arteries clearly at risk should the Alpha's choose to seize the chance and be done with them. His eyes cast around to search for the remaining wolf. He looked behind the two wolves he had already seen, being identified as the white female Blynn spoke of. He looked harder and growled lightly seeing the injuries. As the females head popped up for a moment before she stood slowly and bowed beside the male showkng her submission. His ears pricked up as he scanned the female. Snow white pelt..Greyish white stripe down her back. "S-Snow!" He bellowed loudly and ran off towards the Alphas. His paws thundering across the powdery snow as he pushed himself further and further to the Alphas.

---

Evie - Winters Moon

Evie whined lightly and nudged her mates muzzle. "Farkas.." She sighed slightly and backed away from him. Her head shaking lightly as she turned around. A little unsure what to say or do now, she was also a little disappointed. Her gaze rose to see her pack around her. A speeding black wolf coming their way. "Shadow?" She questioned lightly as the watched the rush of black become closer. Her ocean hues fixated on the black mass coming her way.

---

Shadow - Winters Moon.

Slamming his paws into the ground, claws retracting into the snow as he skidded to a halt before Evie and Farkas. His heckles rose as he grumbled and panted. "Evie.." he panted. "Evie..A word please." He nodded to Farkas for approval also. Farkas grumbled lightly and stepped beside Evie more. "Surely you can say whatever it is before us all Shadow?" His tone stern yet comforting. Shadow nodded gently and cleared his throat. "Farkas, Evie. They are being honest. They are not being untrue, nor do they seek to take over our pack lands. I have seen for myself that the wolves are injured which imply a fight like they stated to you." He stopped briefly and studied his alphas faces. "The female there..." he motioned to the white female with a quick but of his head in the air. "Is my sister Snow..." his ears flickered slightly as his tail flickered against the thin layers of snow beneath them. "She wouldnt lie to you, nor do I think the pack she has chosen would. She is my sibling and I trust her and whom she trusts. Please...Hear me and them out." Shadow stepped back and bowed gently to show his submission to his Alphas. He hoped for the best.

---

Snow - Stardust Vale.

As the female lay in the snow waiting for the problem before her and her pack mate to be solved or a decision to be made. She whined lightly as she let her ears twitch quickly. Her nose wrinkled as she smelt a familiar scent oncoming. Her head popping up as she soon stood slowly. Her tail grazing the powdery snow beneath her dainty paws, she watched the oncoming black fluff ball approach. Her eyes scanning the area around her. The two alphas speaking to one another. With her over active hearing she could hear every word, but she mearly shrugged it off and awaited the black wolfs oncoming announcement or whatever was making them rush here slo quick. Her eyes widened as she saw the black wolf skid to a halt. {S-Shadow?!} She whined and paddled the snow, getting antsy seeing him.

Farkas- Wintermoon
It took a moment to process what he just heard, Shadow's sister..the one He spoke of often and who he always searched for whenever out from the Den. Shadow was one of his best hunters and he had Evie's trust, which was almost good enough for him. He Nuzzled his mate and and leant down to Shadow "If you're wrong about this, and Anyone from the pack gets hurt by them. I will exile you from these lands. But i trust you Shadow and for now that will have to be enough"
Farkas walked calmly over to this White wolf..Snow with his large paws crunching the snow underneath. "Snow, I am Farkas wintermoon, Shadow's Alpha, Now this is going against everything i think is right. but i know Family is important. and so is trust, Shadow is family to me not through blood but through trust and Honor"
He could saw snow bowing her head in submission to him, He placed one of his large white paws on hers " Go to your brother" he said with compassion and love.
Turning to Pan he looked at him dead in his Bright blue eyes, " Go. Tell WolfBane that we will help with food healing and shelter..." he said softly but with force"...but let him know if any harm befalls MY Pack by the paw of any of the Stardust vale, He will be held responsible" Farkas couldn't quite believe what he was saying. Letting another pack into his territory and possibly putting his pack at risk.
Turning back to snow, he said softly " My Healer Nakia will tend to your wound"

He now turned to face the general location of all his pack " I Farkas Wintermoon, Alpha of the Pack Winters moon Declare that we are not to harm Any of the Stardust vale Pack and will help them in their recovery" He tone assertive and strong he had to let them know that his word had been given and it had to be respected " However, Should they harm any of you with intent, you are aloud to act in self defense" to seal his word he gave a long and very loud howl with all of the pack responding

---

Artemis - Stardust vale

She woke with such a fright, to the sound of a very loud howl coming from the distance "what was that" Artemis said whimpering in pain, she hoped that whatever had happened it was for good not Bad..She knew if she didn't get help soon she wouldn't make it..she had lost a lot of blood and was starting to get a fever and was shaking with the cold. For the first time in her life..she was scared

---

Blynn- Wintersmoon
he couldn't quite believe what he had witnessed Farkas wintermoon going from the aggressive protective alpha to the savour of the outsiders, once he had responded with his howl of agreement, he ran off back to the Den. He knew that he had to get ready for whatever injuries that may of been received and he knew there would be a lot.
he got piles of snow ready for cleaning, An assortment of leaves and herbs for healing and he got some Firr branches for makeshift mats for those to sleep on while recovering.
he sorted out his plan. treat the worst cases first then start to work on the minor cases. he knew this would be a long day. they woke up just before sunrise and it now was really sunny..not that you could see its full glory as most of the forest blocked it out,
Finaly he melted some snow into a small dugout hole. He was set.

Stardust Vale- Tarkutt

Tarkutt had finished his hasty treatment of the rest of the injured pack-members, and then he nearly jumped out of his skin. He could feel his pelt crawling with fear at the nearby howling that had sprung up. His hackles prickled up steadily to make the scrawny wolf look twice his size. Cowering slightly, he put a paw to Artemis's forehead. He let out a whimper and stepped back, she felt feverish. Gently he scraped some more snow to melt in front of her muzzle. "Drink some water," he said softly. "Hopefully we can get you some food soon." Part of him wanted to chastise the hunter for getting herself so horribly injured, but he reminded himself that it was in her nature, then sat down and returned to his worrying.

Winter's Moon- Yehki

Yehki growled softly, she wasn't at all happy with the idea of sharing territory with an entire pack of strangers. More than being (for the most part) displeased, though, she was surprised at what had happened. What were the odds of Shadow's sister belonging to this other pack? But she had no argument against serving family, so she listened quietly to Farkas, hesitated, and joined the howl. He was the leader; she trusted him and his decisions.

Snow - Stardust Vale.

Snow was stunned. Her muzzle dropped a little before she shook her head, bouncing up playfully she smiled and wiggled. "Thank-you so much Alpha Farkas." She bowed to him respectfully then hobbled over to her brother, skidding down the slope of snow on the hill slightly. Loosing her footing shortly before getting all the way down the hill she yelped and fell.

---

Shadow - Wintersmoon

His eyes lit up as he howled in chorus to his Alpha. Soon cutting his howl short and bounding to where his sister was coming down the snowy slope. He saw her loose her footing and raced over to catch her. Luckily, he did. The pair nuzzled each-other and bounced about, but soon Snow yelped and collapsed in the snow. Shadows ear flattened, slowly picking her up by nudging his head beneath her and adjusting her over his back, he trotted back to the pack dens and howled for a healer. His tail swishing happily as he whined in delight. He had been re-united with his sister and he could not be happier.

---

Evie - Wintersmoon.

Evie smiled and watched as Farkas made his decision. The pack were to become their allys. She bounced up excitedly, rearing up and howling loudly. Swiftly jumping to her mates side as she nuzzled his ruff and whined softly. "I am so proud of you Farkas.." She whispered licking his cheeks. Happily standing beside him she nuzzled and butted his side playfully. She knew after this he would need a run or a little time to bound with her. She barked and bowed her front n a playful stance. Growling lightly. She wanted him to play chase with her back to the pack grounds once this was solved. She hoped it would be soon.

Farkas wintermoon

At last farkas could relax a little but he knew full well that these next few days was going to be tough, for him and the pack, he let out a little happy bark in response to his mates compliment, Though she was always supportive he knew some decisions didn't always sit well with her, and for having this large and possibly chaotic situation partially resolved, Before taking up his mates attempt to play he turned to the pack and told them to be on guard but that they can relax for now.
without warning he bounded over to his mate pouncing on his mate and nipping and nuzzling her playfully, He wanted to seize this opportunity before the talks with Wolfbane started as they would need to discuss rules and what they must do to earn respect and everything else with it.
But for now, it was time to relax.

Sequoia could hardly believe what had just happened. The change in events left her head spinning as she tried to chronicle what had just happened.

We've gained their blessing? Shadow, Snow's brother is here? She's going with him? The alpha's are leaving? What? her thoughts went wild as the dire cloud lingering about the meeting lifted and the mood shifted. She looked at Pan, shaking her head and standing up, stretching out the length of her body, rump in the air as she reached out and clawed at the ground to relieve the tension in her body. "Well. I don't know how, but it looks like we have some good news to deliver." A wolfish grin tugged at her jowls as she looked at her fellow beta with a sense of relief and accomplishment.

They would be safe.

"If you don't mind, I'd like to relay the news as soon as possible. I don't like the idea of leaving Snow behind, but then again, these wolves are our packmates now... and if they trust us, we will trust them." She turned to the horizon from whence they came, knowing her family was in the distance, recovering from the loss of their packlands. She let out a low growling bark and took off running, knowing Pantalaimon would be at her side in no time at all.

And so the Stardust Vale Pack lives on, in thanks to our brothers of the Wintermoon Packlands. She cleared her mind and soared across the landscape, a new, brighter goal fuelling her stride.

---

It had taken every ounce of Shade's restraint to stop him from bolting after Shadow and tackling him to the ground. The wolf could very well have triggered the strangers to act out in defence and a fight could have been the end of the meeting. But when he saw the events unfold before him, he felt his jaw drop. Shadow's sister was the white wolf of the trio? How could that be? The reuniting of the two was warming, and as the Alpha's accepted the outsiders into their lands, Shade was filled with a concoction of relief, for the end of the tense meeting, and stress towards the knowledge that the prey of the Wintersmoon Packlands would now be half as bountiful for the pack this winter. Sharing meat and shelter was not ideal for any pack. He stood, hoping the outsiders returned with only a few others rather than a large, injured pack.

As he shot reassuring glances to the others that surrounded the low hill, he began to walk forward, wanting to meet this sister of Shadow's. Out of the corner of his eye, he watched the beta female take off into the woods, no doubt rushing back to tell her pack the good news, the male followed shortly after. As he followed the pair of pawprints towards the dens. He heard a howl from within, Shadow's call, beckoning a healer.

So the white one was injured, humph, a healing body requires more flesh to feed it. Sighing, he made a stop at his personal stores within his personal den. He entered into the small gap in the earth beneath a large sheet of stone, lifted up by the thick roots of an ancient pine that grew beside it. The pine needles that fell made for good insulation and the rock above kept snow and water from pouring in and the shape of the den let little to no draft in. The intricate growth of the roots roofed a fair length of void into the side of a sharp incline in the terrain, the main pack dens lay but a few yards away. As a beta, he owned the right to keep a reasonable amount of personal stores of meat. This was for multiple reasons; should the alpha run out, the betas always had a supply to ensure the health of their leader, also, the beta's rank offered them certain privileges: such was the way of the lupine hierarchy.

As he gathered up a thick slab of elk meat from a burrow within his den, he made his way to where the black and the white wolves waited for a healer. "Shadow," He said, dipping his head in acknowledgement. "So, this is your sister, Snow? It's hard to accept the site of you two together. You've spoken of her for many moons, and you look as much like her as the sun does to the moon. But your features give it away nonetheless." He moved forward and placed the meat before Snow.

"Please, eat, you will heal faster if you provide your body the energy it needs to do so. I am Shade Starscream, beta of this pack. I welcome to our packlands." He wasn't sure what else to say, he wasn't exactly a social butterfly and he knew he had rounds he should be doing. But a noble side of him would always insist on treating the alpha's guests with great respect and kindness. He stood, looking down at the white wolf, and then at the black beside her. He shifted his gaze about the den, not wanting to stare at the ghostly female. Truthfully he had often wondered if Shadow merely kept a deceased sibling alive in his mind through stories and memories. But now, before him, the one he spoke of so fondly proved his thoughts wrong. Shadow must have known somewhere in his heart that he would find his sister.

As he thought about the concepts of loss, loved ones, and death, he felt a sickening pit consume his gut as his memories of his mother welled up within him. He huffed, letting out the emotion in an undetectable way and then focused on recollecting himself. His eyes were colder now than a few moments ago, and his walls were up. He did not want to be near Shadow or Snow right now, but he was not such a mutt to bluntly disregard a guest, let alone a female.