PRPG: Dark Wolf & Admin: Story of the Forest

Ember followed Misty as they went to join the rest for the ceremony. Her heart racing the whole time. Only her soul would quake upon seeing Silver. She was now to protect them while their souls were out of their bodies, she would do so without hesitation.

"S-someone has to tend to these w-w-wounds. C-can't trust you t-to do it.' Clover teased. Clover continued to tend to the injuries. "I c-can at least keep them cleaned for y-you." It was dark, but her eyes adjusted well and could even make out the different shades of color on his coat.

Misty loped to the small oasis that sat in between the two preparation caves. Her ears perked as she saw Silver, the paint already glowing under the moon, the designs peaking out from under the bone. The sight made her heart stop for a second, taking her breath away. She gave him a shy smile, her ears flicking slightly. "Hey there," she said, her voice a slight whisper. Walking up to him she touched her nose to his as the packs that were there formed a circle around them.

Krix huffed, gently nudging her with his nose. "Clover I'll be fine," he promised. "They're nothing." Even as he spoke, his muscles twitched in response to the pain and shivering from the feeling of Clover's tongue rasping over his wounds. "How long have you been awake?" he asked, his voice soft as every nerve was focused on tracking Clover's movements and where her fur brushed his.

As Misty took her place by Silver, Ember's soul nearly shattered. How could something be so beautiful, the King and Queen was truly her soul's desire. She took the place directed to her, ready to guard her Alphas. The rest of the leaders privy to the ceremony took their places.
"Let us begin." declared Tortaro.

It was midnight. Clover did not know what the dawn would bring, but she would remain by Krix's side no matter what. She trusted Silver, he had never failed to achieve his goals, so this time she knew he was in control. 'Krix, I hope you listen to him, you stubborn fool.' Clover thought to herself. She leaned into Krix only wanting to be close to him. She would not leave his side all night.

By the time the ceremony started it was midnight, the moon at its highest. Misty and Silver walked under the ancient argan tree, moonlight filtering through the branches and causing the paint in Misty and Silver’s fur to glow a brilliant blue in response. Argan trees had roots that anchored deep into the desert floor with a wide flat canopy that aided in protecting the souls from wandering too far into the sky and spirit world. Once she reached the base of the tree each of them bit into the soft flesh of its fruit, the juices aiding in loosening their souls and connecting them to the safety of the tree. Misty’s eyes shifted over Silver, taking in the image of him in the warpaint and Bariv armor before finally settling on his mesmerizing silver eyes. Pressing her forehead into his and nuzzling him she stepped back as the ceremony. A low hum started from the gathered wolves, growing louder as more desert wolves appeared from outside the oasis. Misty could feel the hum vibrate through her chest as the paint glowed brighter with the collective hum. Once all the wolves were gathered, the leader of the howl (generally the pack leader then the wolf’s parents since in this case Tortaro is not a wolf) lifted his muzzle, a clear, high howl spiraling out of it. At that sound the wolves began shifting their feet back and forth, stirring up the desert sand. Misty dipped her head to Silver in an almost bow, her eyes mischievous and taunting. Rising she turned and launched into the path of the figure eight, the sand whirling around her paws, creating little flurries that rose into the air as Silver loped in the opposite direction of her, completely the pattern. Every time she passed him in the circle the paint would flare then get become a brighter blue and another wolf would join the howl, the sand blowing faster and faster as they sped up. Misty’s soul seemed to compress more and more, both tensing and relaxing at the same time as the barrier between the spiritual world and the corporal world thinned. Finally the apex of the howl hit as the last wolf joined in, the sound encompassing the oasis and echoing through the desert, the wind and moving paws creating a cyclone of sand within the circle of wolves. Silver and Misty met each other at the cross section in the figure for the last time, their paint flaring a bright blue that blinded the animals there, their bodies collapsing as one as their souls were released from their physical forms. Their souls rose from the bodies as blue smoke, shaking out their fur before prancing around and playing like they did when they were pups.

After a moment smoke drifted in from the branches of the argan tree, the light reflecting off the sand. The fog condensed into forms of packs, the wolves old and young. The older spirits’ patterns had completely faded, their fur more generalized and transparent than the newly formed spirits. Misty instantly picked out her mother and packmates from the crowd of wolves as well as some wolves that she had only heard about in legends from when she was a pup. Her pack’s ancestors moved past her, her mother leading the way to Silver as the smoke of the pack separated him from her. Misty looked down for a second to see Ember standing beside their bodies, her eyes flicking from the surrounding area, to the spirits, then back to check on their fallen forms. Glancing back up Misty’s eyes met the sharp gaze of a wolf she could only assume was Silver’s father, his mate behind him as the rest of the pack spanned out behind him. Misty instantly lowered herself into a small bow of respect; she could see where Silver got his looks from. He had his father’s lean, muscled build and his mother’s beautiful silver coat and silver eyes. The pack surrounded her, their eyes sweeping over her whole body, scrutinizing her. Misty wanted to curl in on herself but she stood tall, bravely meeting the gaze of Silver’s father. Suddenly out of the fog came their ethereal form, barely seen but its presence swept over the whole pack, all of them instantly bowing. Misty instantly knew this was the founder of the Northern Pack, the original silver wolf. Her skin shivered as the smokey form moved around her, the tendrils of fog grazing her the tips of her fun. She felt the barest touch of pressure around her neck as if a wolf had wrapped its neck around hers in affection though the fog had barely any form to it. In a single moment the fog dissipated up into the trees. Silver’s parents turned to hers, the packs flowing back, allowing Misty to go to Silver. The pack surrounded the two of them in a new circle. Misty’s mother and Silver’s parents looked at each other, their eyes filled with pride and happiness before as one they lifted their muzzles and a clear howl spiraled out into the air, the only time spirits were able to create sound. One after another the rest of the newly joined packs joined in on the howl, even the soft, distant howls from the older wolves. The mist from their released howl spun around them like a whirlpool until it surrounded them completely. Misty could feel her spirit connect with Silver’s as they drifted down to their bodies.

The paint in their fur flared a bright blue as their souls returned to their bodies. The fog spiraled faster and was pulled back into the sky, the spirit world closing on the last echoes of the combined howl. Back in her body, Misty opened her eyes to the howl of the desert wolves dying down. Looking over she met Silver’s gaze, rolling onto her stomach to press her forehead into his, their blue paint flaring every time they touched from their connected spirits, as they would continue to for the next moon. The surrounding wolves started barking and howling in celebration and happiness at the united king and queen as the sun broke the horizon, signaling a new dawn and a new life.

Krix’s soul shivered as it recognized the spirit call of his mother’s pack. Every desert wolf would feel it tonight as it beckoned his soul to join the pack howl. Following his mother’s teachings he didn’t resist it, lifting his muzzle he howled, his voice a bright, beautiful sound that echoed through the trees. His howl matched the speed of the distant packs’, dying down in sync with theirs, his soul shivering in happiness as he opened his eyes to see Clover still beside him. He had never howled near his pack, mainly because it would give him away when he generally needed to stay hidden from the packs but he wouldn’t resist the spirit world’s call; his mother had taught him that that was disrespecting the spirits. He flicked an ear, not quite sure how she would react to his sudden howl since she wouldn’t have felt the call.

Silver could not remember a more beautiful sight. Many times he had seen Misty's soul, but this was different. As their souls moved and intertwined with each other, Silver felt the exhilaration of becoming one. He saw colors he did not expect to see. Then while in Spirit form, he saw a she-wolf that looked much like Misty. 'Must be her Mom.' He thought to himself. He lowered his head in order to honor the ancestors. When he lifted his head he was facing Misty. Her eyes shone brighter than the lights of the Spirit world. Once more he wrapped his neck with hers as he held her close. He gazed upon the seemingly lifeless bodies that Misty and He had left behind. Ember stood near them, unwavering, unwilling to move for anyone or anything. Something seemed off. Ember wasn't moving, but a flash of light came from where she sat.
Ember's soul had burst from her body and sat staring up at the the most breathtaking image she had ever seen. She knew not what to do. Did this count as abandoning her post? What would Misty and Silver think of this? Her fear and curiosity were at odds with each other. All she could do was to sit and watch her Beloved King and now Beloved Queen.
Silver's attention focused back on Misty. All the love in his heart and soul was experienced by those in the spirit world. When they returned to their bodies, the ceremony would be complete and he and Misty would be unified under the rule of the southern territory tradition.

As Krix let out a howl, Clover thought to herself that not a more beautiful sound had been made. She leaned into Krix, feeling the vibration of his body as the call was being made. She was ready for the night to end, for Krix's sake.

Misty sighed in contentment as her heartbeat seemed to sync with Silver's. Their souls were finally connected and for the first time in a long time she felt at home and finally whole. Her memories from when her spirit was out of her body were vague but there was something on the edge of her recollection that she couldn't quite think of. She had thought she had seen Ember's spirit separate from her body during the ceremony. Frowning slightly Misty glanced over at Ember, though she didn't seem any different. Pushing herself to her feet she walked over to Ember and, as custom, she bowed slightly to her. "Thank you, my Sepa Shivi, for guarding my body while my soul was gone from this earth," she said, her voice. She finished by touching her nose to Ember's and that's when something happened that was not normal. Her paint, which should have only reacted when Silver was touching her, glowed. Though it was not as bright as when she was around Silver, it was not supposed to glow for anyone but him. Misty jerked back in surprise, staring at Ember in shock before glancing back at Silver, her eyes wide.

Krix let out a slight purr as Clover leaned into him before he could stop himself. He wasn't sure what was going on between Clover and him but he had a duty to his pack and he didn't want to give her the wrong idea. But spirits did he want to be closer to him. When she was with him, all he could focus on was the way her smell surrounded him and the feeling of her fur against his. Dawn was breaking the horizon which meant the ceremony had ended and Silver and Misty were now mated, Alphas of the whole Forest territory. He didn't know how the coming days would go but he swore to himself and the spirits that he would protect his pack. And Clover, he admitted to himself silently. In the sky above the last visible star seemed to flare once before disappearing, almost as if acknowledging his promise.

Silver was taken aback when he saw Misty show affection to Ember. Even more so when her paint began to glow. It only took Silver a moment to react. He walked over to Ember and did the art thing anyone expected. He showed her the same affection Misty had. His paint glowed too. When he took a step back to look Ember in the eyes and look at Misty, something even more peculiar had happened. Sharp confident lines and smooth graceful lines had mixed together and appeared on Ember's coat. The leaders of the forest were shocked, except for Tortaro. Tortaro walked over to the trio. "It appears we have a new development." Began Tortaro. "These three are now mated to each other. And as such, now three must take the throne as King and Queens of the forest and the Southern Desert." Despite the confusion of what just happened, Tortaro seemed confident in the outcome, so all the other leaders accepted it. Silver brought Misty and Ember closer to him and together the paint glowed brighter than the setting sun.
"What does this mean for the Northern Rogues?" Asked Ember.
Silver thought about it. "I have a solution." He said confidently. "We must travel to the Center Territory now. The forest is waiting for our arrival."

Clover felt a strong tug on her soul. She knew something had just occurred involving Ember. She knew it was something significant, though what exactly, she wasn't sure. She looked at Krix, he was still focused on the night, lost in his thoughts. 'He needs to relax.' She thought to herself. 'How can I help? I got it!' A look of deviance and love mixed on her face as she touched noses with Krix. She then licked his muzzle and waited for his response.

Misty looked up in shock. Is that even possible?, she thought. “How is that even possible?” she asked, her voice soft with disbelief. She looked at the fainter swirls that appeared on Ember's fur, the blue color seeming to swim underneath her skin. Misty kept reaching her nose out, teasing the tips of it, watching the blue flare wherever she touched it. "How is this going to work?" she asked, not knowing if she was asking herself or them.

Krix was zoned out as he kept an eye on the forest when a cold tongue suddenly swept across his muzzle. Jerking back in surprise he looked down to see Clover staring up at her, her eyes twinkling mischievously. "And just what do you think you're doing?" he asked, his voice filled with amusement.

Silver looked at Misty and Ember. So how both became his mate on this night, both became his Queens. "We will figure this out, together." Silver said cooly. He looked into their souls. Misty's was gentle and pure, Ember's was firey and strong. Together with Silver's own fierce and unwavering soul, the three souls seemed to resonate together, their hearts combined. The only thing that troubled Silver was why did Ember's ancestors not come forward to present Ember to Misty and himself? As it wou of turn out, Ember had been alone. Clover was her only family tie. Even their ancestors abandoned them, but this was not the case anymore. The ancestors for both Misty and Silver accepted Ember completely. "My Queens," said Silver, teasing them a bit with a gentle bow, "It is time to get moving."

Clover hunched down, then she pounced, knocking Krix over playfully. She was overwhelmed by such an immense feeling of joy, she had to spread it. As she looked down upon the Fallen Krix, she gave him more affection, she didn't care if any other pack members saw. If Krix wasn't going to make his move, she was going to.

Misty gave Silver a small smile and inclined her head as a queen would her subject. "So we must," she said, her voice teasing. Sobering for a second she met Silver's gaze. "Silver. We have to talk to Krix before we go to the other packs. We need to resolve this."

Krix huffed in pretend frustration before lightly gripping her ear and rolling her off of him so he stood over her, his eyes filled with amusement and triumph. He lowered his head, his voice just loud enough to hear. "Someone's feeling playful," he chuckled, his breath stirring the fur by her ear. His muscles twitched at being so close to Clover, her scent filling his nose. He itched to move closer and feel the brush of her fur against his but with the pack beginning to wake up he held himself back.

"No," stated Silver. "He will be at the meeting, not out in the open, but he will be watching and listening. They are in the tunnel systems, so we will use that."

Ember was slightly torn. After his ill mannered display, Ember still wanted to kill Krix, but she held herself back. Silver had a plan, she had to trust in him. Ember knew that Misty felt the opposite, she nuzzled Misty. "I think we should trust what Silver has planned."

The precession of leaders headed off to the Center Territory.  With the ceremony complete the had to reach the site by dawn. It was a brisk run as the ceremony oasis ended soon before the prairie and then into the center.

Clover looked up at Krix. "Something wonderful has happened. I can feel it in my soul." She stated. "And something even more wonderful is about to happen. You will see, they are on their way here." She was referring to the forest leaders. It was a feeling from  deep in her soul, her connection to her sister.

Misty had a slight frown on her face, still not sure. She trusted Silver but she knew they needed to talk to Krix. She didn't know what his plan was or how all of this would turn out. So much has happened, she thought, letting out a sigh. I don't know if I'm even cut out to handle all of this. Misty turned to follow the procession of wolves that was heading to the Center Territory where hopefully the packs had obeyed Forest Law and not harmed anyone while within its bounds. Silver had placed several highly volatile packs that held massive angst towards each other in a confined area without supervision for a few days and she shuddered to think of the trouble they had gotten themselves into.

Krix had mixed feelings about hearing that the other wolves were coming. His expression shut down as he stepped back from Clover. "I should probably make sure the pack is taken care of then," he said, his voice that of an Alpha's. He was a kind wolf to his pack but he still held the discipline of an Alpha from his father and knew how to hide his emotions if he needed to. He was beyond happy to see Misty again but it was soured slightly from knowing that she would bring her new mate with her. Krix still didn't know how to feel about Silver; he would listen to him if he came to talk but if he thought Krix would just lay down and submit his pack over to him he had another thing coming. The Darastrix Pack was Krix's responsibility and he wouldn't give it over just because some wolf told him to. Krix sighed as he turned from Clover to check on his pack, making sure they had all slept ok and ensuring there were some that were ready to hunt. After he got the pack taken care of he'd go to the ceremony and see how they all reacted. Silver was throwing those packs a curveball and the majority of them probably wouldn't take it too well. Krix didn't care what Silver did but he was going to make sure Misty didn't become a casualty of Silver's crusade. He knew Misty didn't identify with a pack so he wouldn't say she was part of his, not like Shadow did, but Misty was his closest friend and he would protect her with the same drive he did his pack.

As Silver walked with Misty and Ember he spoke with them. "You are the two pieces of my heart. I vow to protect both of you with all that I have, as well as the family we shall build together." He nuzzled both Ember and Misty. They stayed back from the rest of the group in order to give the forest animals a chance to gather together around the old fallen Oak at the very center of the forest. Silver then continued. "I vow to protect this forest and all of its inhabitants. Not a single life is considered useless." He looked specifically to Misty as he said this, he wanted her to understand that his plan was both good and was going to work.

Clover frowned. She wanted Krix to share in her joy, but his mind went back to the sorrow he held onto. Still, the feeling she had failed to fade, something good for the forest was about to happen, more importantly, something for her family, both of them.

The dawn broke and the leaders reached the Center Territory. Immediately they began to assemble all the forest animals together at the old Oak and waited to announce the arrival of King Silver, Queen Misty, and Queen Ember.

Misty touched her nose to his, her eyes still slightly sad. She was worried, for all of them. Looking up at the Great Oak she saw where the lights dipped down. The Great Oak was where the barrier was the thinnest, that was why it was declared neutral ground under Forest Law, where none could be harmed. So many animals were gathered in the clearing it was a wonder how they all fit in there.

Krix's ears picked up commotion in the Center Territory later in the day; something big was happening. Krix glanced at Clover before trotting over to Moon. "Moon I need you to keep the pack here and hidden," he said, his voice low. "I have some affairs I need to take care of but I shall be back as soon as I am able. Glancing at Clover for a second he slipped out into the forest, following the noise. Reaching the clearing near the Great Oak he crouched behind one of the cave outlooks, his mottled fur blending in with the surrounding brush. He instantly spotted Misty's silver and grey fur with Silver beside her, their blue painted fur glowing. Krix's eyes found a third female standing beside them, blue markings on her fur that were slightly fainter than Silver's and Misty's. What's going on there? he wondered.

Tortaro was the first to speak. "Hello Creatures of these hallowed woods, Great and Small alike. Through my many years I have seen wonders happen. I have seen tragedy strike many times over. I have seen Alphas rise and fall in all territories, however, never have I seen such a miracle as what has transpired in recent events. Many legends have formed and while some have been proven true, others have been proven false. I reined King of the Southern Sands for most of my life, but when it was time for me to step down, the Spirits provided me with my successor. Even greater than that, the spirits of this land have seen what is in store for this forest and have provided us with our way to address our growing problems, both internally and externally. I now present to you the King and Queens of these Woods. King Silver of the Northern Pack. Queen Misty of the Southern Sands. Queen Ember of the Northern Rogues. The Spirits brought these three together and joined their souls together as mates. Now, I present to you King Silver."
The creatures of the forest at first spoke among themselves, confusion was spread throughout the congregation. "How can he have two queens?" some would ask. "Is it really Silver of the Northern Pack?" others would question. Most of the animals that heard Tortaro speak trusted his words, knowing that he had more life and experience then even some of the trees. Some were skeptical, wanting to hear what Silver had to say specifically.
Silver touched his nose to Misty's and then Ember's. He stood as proud, as regally, as commanding ans he ever had. His confidence was contagious to those around him. "When I was a pup," Silver began his speech. "I lost my entire pack. I was exiled and traveled to the Southern Territory. Stoneheart and Tortaro mentored me. They taught me what my own father could not. When the time came, I left the Southern Territory and fought to reclaim my stolen home. I killed the tyrant alpha known as Terror, the one who was responsible for the destruction of my pack and the death of my father. I found one worthy of leading the Northern Rogues in my place while I continued to live in exile. I watched all the packs and studied specifically their alphas. If I found one to be lacking, I made the necessary challenges. I fought King Barron of the West and claimed the Bear's territory. Barron had been a good king and so I left him to continue his rule in my place. My exile continued. I spent a great deal of time watching both the High Moon Pack and the Daratrix Pack. I had no direct contact with the Daratrix Pack, however their leader impressed me. The High Moon pack however, had some difficulties that needed to be settled. I claimed that pack and the Eastern Territory." UP to this point, Silver only talked about his travels. He didn't talk about his bond with Ember, nor did he talk about his love for Misty. With the threat that was soon upon them, he needed to make his claim strong and quick. "I, Silver of the Northern Pack am the King of the North, West, and East. If anyone wishes to challenge my claim, step forward now."  No one dared move. "In my travels, I found many who impressed me. In my Battle of the North, it was Ember," he looked onto his left side at Ember, "who was the first to attack me from her pack. No one dared make a move until she made the first. She became my Beta for the Northern Rogues. In the East, the beautiful walking contradiction brought me out of my Exile, only for her to learn of her true Identity as the rightful heir to the Southern Sands. The Spirits have brought Misty, Ember, and I together. We are mated, connected, our souls intertwined."

Clover had followed Krix. She needed to know what was going on. Upon hearing Silver's words, she let out a squeal of sorts, "Ember was mated to Silver!" She pounced on Krix. "I told you something good happened." Then it sank in. "She was mated to two wolves? Ember has two mates?" Clover looked out and saw Ember. The lines on her glowed a brilliant shade, only overcast by the two origin designs on Silver and Misty. This was a shock to her, but what she would hear next would leave the whole forest at a loss for words.

Silver continued. "It has become necessary for me to claim the territories that I have, and having been mated with Misty and with Ember, the forest is now united." Silver paused. "We have a grave threat to our homes. Humans have entered our forest. We must unite to protect our home. Due to both the injustices I have seen throughout the East, West, and North, as well as our growing threat of humans, changes are going to be made." Silver's voice was commanding. The two major packs there had been the Northern Rogues and the High Moon. There were smaller packs of wolves that formed and were present, including the Desert Pack and the Prairie Pack, but neither pack was willing to stand against Silver, especially with Humans in the area."First," began Silver, "the Northern Rogues need a new leader. Clover of the Northern Rogues is now the Alpha."

"WHAT!" Clover shreaked. She looked at Krix. "A-a-alpha? But Silver is A-a-alpha. K-Krix? What s-s-should I do?"

"The Northern Rogues will cease to be known as such, from here on out they are now The Northern Pack." Declared Silver. "Under Clover's direction, this pack will carry on the name of the Northern Pack and will bring honor to the name. Clover, come forward."

Clover hesitated. She looked at Krix, then made her way to where Silver stood. "S-Silver, Sister. I d-don't know what to say. I will d-do my best to make you p-proud."

"I know you will." Silver agreed. "Shadow of the High Moon Pack is named Alpha. Shadow, come forward. Barron is still the King of the Bears. The Prairie and Desert packs will merge, Stoneheart of the Sands will be the Alpha. Ether of the Skies and Elmwood of the Trees will also continue as leaders of their respective kinds. Tortaro will continue as an adviser to the throne."

The forest was dead silent as Silver spoke. Everyone hung on every word.

"Finally," Silver continued. He was counting on Krix being nearby. "The Daratrix Pack is officially recognized as a pack of these woods. Krix is the alpha. Krix, come forward." Silver called Krix out to the open. "A section of the Northern and Eastern Territories, to include the Daratrix current den, as well as the main tunnel system will be set aside as the Daratrix Pack territory. Furthermore, the Daratrix will be the eyes and ears of the forest. They will act on behalf of the forest and will answer directly to the throne. If any other pack should attack any member of the Daratrix, I will treat it as though you have personally challenged my throne. Krix," Silver looked right at him, "train them well, it is not good for your pack to hide. Bring them out into the open."

Silver paused to let his words sink in. "Now we must prepare for this war with the humans. Should any pack break away and do things on their own, they will surely perish. To avoid these outcomes, we must band together. All the leaders that I have mentioned will form our Counsel of Alphas. Those of the North and the West will report to Queen Ember. Those of the South and East will report to Queen Misty. If anyone challenges either Queen, they challenge my throne as King. Let us all come together in order to protect our home. These humans will not stop until they have taken our land. We will not let that happen. I will fight to the death to protect this land, and I expect no less of all those that are here. Together, we will be VICTORIOUS!" Silver ended his address strong. He wanted to be sure every creature of the forest heard and would be ready to fight when the time came. "Members of the Counsel, we shall hold a meeting immediately after all the animals return to their homes."

Ember sat nearly in shock at what Silver said. The changes he made were huge and would have a great impact. She found herself fully supporting all Silver said. She looked over to Misty to see her reaction. By the look on Misty's face, she was just as shocked as Ember.

Misty stared at Silver in complete shock. Make the Darastrixes an official pack? she thought, stunned. She looked over at Ember, her eyes wide. “He’s going to create a mutiny with that alone,” she whispered in disbelief. Sure enough a few minutes after Silver’s statement chaos ensued, angry voices raising as teeth began to show. “You can’t do that!” one voice snarled. “They’re abominations!” another snapped. “What gives you the right?” Misty met Ember’s gaze, her eyes sad. “Krix knew this would happen,” she said. “He knew they would turn against Silver the moment he announced his support for Krix. How is Silver going to change years of hatred? I support him but I don’t know how he is going to win them back. I don’t see how he can keep both the packs and Krix. Not in the open at least.”

Shadow looked up at Silver in complete shock. He knew Silver was different, more bold and stubborn than most but this was something completely different. He looked out at the packs that were filled with hatred, unsure whether they hated Silver or Krix more. In a single moment he made a decision he had never thought he would. Lifting his chin he moved out of the crowd and walked up to Silver, meeting his eyes. Holding his gaze Shadow deliberately bowed, submitting himself to Silver’s rule, something no one expected him to do, especially after the announcement of the Darastrix Pack. “I am far from perfect Silver,” he said, his voice just loud enough to hear over the snarls of the pack wolves. “But I will do my best to be an asset to you and I will support you in all you do… my King.”

Krix jumped as Clover’s squeal echoed from behind him. Before he could even process that she was beside him she was gone. Krix took a step forward, torn between staying hidden and following Clover. A low whine emitted from his muzzle, his muscles shaking slightly from indecision. Ever since Tortaro had mentioned his mate he seemed more drawn to Clover than before and he didn’t want to lose her, even as just a friend. She was part of his pack, though now it seemed her ties to the Northern Pack were more important than being in his. Everything stilled in him when he heard Silver mention the Darastrix Pack and it was all he could focus on. On one hand, he wanted his pack to have the respect he knew they deserved but on the other, he was scared. He was scared he wouldn’t be able to protect his pack against the coming war and the Darastrix Pack had never been in the light, it had been created in the shadows. Shaking his head he took two steps back, the brush hiding him again. Krix turned to slip into the tunnels, quickly loping to where his pack waited in one of the main caverns, the sound of angry snarls echoing through the forest behind him. He was ashamed of his fear but he didn’t know what to do or how to feel. He needed to figure out the thoughts in his head, somewhere away from all the others. He made sure the pack was all together and safe, managed by Moon, before he slipped into the tunnels, making his way to a secret cave. Veins of taimo stone snaked through the walls, leading to a pool that glowed with bright blue water. The moment his paws entered the pool he let out of a deep sigh, his tension easing slightly. Submerging his body, his mottled fur floating up around him as he rested his head on the stones around the pool. This place always made him feel closer to his family here and calmed his soul, it was his escape. The only person that knew about it was Misty though he had mentioned its existence to Clover once a few moons ago. His thoughts swirled around in his head as the smell of the taimo stone filled his senses as he his body settled on the bottom of the pool.

As the Prarie and Desert packs began to meet and lash out over the declaration on behalf of the Darastrix Pack, the High Moon and noe Northern Packs shot them dirty looks. Stoneheart looked upon his southern packs with disdain.
"Does this mean that both the Prarie and Desert Packs wish to challenge my throne?" Silver looked to the sitting alphas from both packs as they did nothing to quell their numbers.
"I wouldn't do that if I were you." Laughed Barron.
"Yes!" Declared the sitting Alpha for the Prairie. "My pack has spoken."
"And what of you, Desert Alpha?" Silver asked intently.
"I TOO challenge you Silver. What gives you the right to rule over us?"
"Young pups," stated Stoneheart. "I advise you against challenging Silver. The other two packs that are here, learned that the hard way."
"Shut it, old Dog." Demanded the Prairie Alpha. "You are not our Alpha."
Stoneheart sighed. "Alright Silver, do what you must."
Silver looked at Ember and Misty. "Looks like I must break two packs once more. Gila, Fenic, be ready to heal them once I am done." Silver directed. Both healers nodded in respect. Silver stepped down from the stump of the great Oak. "I accept your challenge, however, all of you shall attack at once. Both packs, together."
The two alphas looked at each other. "Is he insane?" They asked. "Fine! Thy brings our numbers to thirty wolves not including ourselves." They answered. "You think you can stand against us all?" They scoffed and the Center Territory was cleared for the battle.

Clover looked around. "Where is Krix?" She asked herself. She looked to Ember and Misty. "My Queens, may I take leave? I must find Krix and bring him back. He must witness this battle!"
"Go my Sister," Ember permitted. "Be quick, Silver won't wait." At that, Clover was gone, following Krix's scent through the tunnels and last the pack. She found him floating lifelessly in a pool of water.
"Krix! How could you!" Clover yelled. Immediately she bit him at his scruff and began dragging him from the water. "You don't get to do this! You don't get to run while another wolf fights on your behalf! Silver is about to fight two packs to establish his rule over them, which means your position as Alpha of the Darastrix. How dare you run!" Tears filled Clover's eyes and down her muzzle. They dripped onto Krix who, now out of the water, still didn't move. "You don't get to check out!" Clover was unrelenting, fighting through her tears, fighting for the wolf she loved. "I'm not giving up, and neither are you!"

Ember felt a bit of excitement. She thought back to when Silver first returned to the Northern Territory. She was the first to attack Silver. She kept pace with him for a while, but soon he overpowered her. He stood over her and her soul was lost in him. From then, she wanted nothing more than to stand by him as she watched him fight the entire Rogue pack. One by one her comrades fell, but the whole time, she couldn't help but hope that Silver would be the victor. The fighting excited her. The complete opposite, she assumed was Misty, who didn't seem to be the firey type. Ember could hardly sit still as the wolves down below began to prepare for battle.

Misty’s temper snapped and she stalked down to join Silver, her hackles raised. Most thought she was an incredibly shy and quiet wolf, and most times she was, but when she got mad hell itself froze over and Hades quakes in her presence. “How DARE you,” she snarled, her teeth showing and her brown eyes flashing with anger. “You think that just because you separated from the main pack that makes you any better than the others?” Misty stormed right up to the Alphas her teeth inches from their throats. She was smaller than they were but her anger made her seem much bigger and much fiercer than every wolf there. “You are a disgrace to every wolf here and I almost want to call myself a fox just so I don’t have to be part of your species. You think fighting amongst ourselves will solve anything? All you're doing is making it easier for the humans to kill us off. You don’t even care about the health and safety of your own pack. You’re just as willing to kill all of them as well just to settle your oversized ego!” she snarled.

Krix yelped as teeth sank into his scruff, snapping him straight out of his meditative thoughts. Immediately he twisted out of the wolf’s grip and snaked his head under its legs grabbing one and yanking it, flipping the wolf onto its back. Krix immediately moved to stand over the wolf before jerking his head back in surprise when he saw Clover. “Clover? What in the world are you doing here?” he asked in surprise before his tone turned bitter. “Shouldn’t you be celebrating your new position as Alpha of the Northern Pack?”

"Misty, my Love." Silver addressed her. He wrapped his neck around her. "Thank you for your words. They are pure and true, however the challenge was made. I will honor the challenge, and it will be on my terms. That is why Gila and Fenic are here. Stoneheart and Lunara are also both gifted healers. No one will die here today."
Ember watched as Misty lost her temper. 'So there IS some fire in her after all.' She thought to herself.' Ember joined Misty and Silver. She looked upon the Alphas. You two will not get out of your challenge." Ember stared shortly. "You made your den, you lie in it." Ember too wrapped her neck around Misty. "Come, my Queen, let's let these boys learn the hard way, it won't take long then we can go back to our strategy. Meanwhile, Clover should be returning with Krix soon."
"Shadow, I want you to keep track of the numbers. Collectively, these two packs outnumber the Northern and the High Moon packs individually. I'm trusting you to pay attention, this will be part of your training as Alpha."

Clover looked up at Krix who was now standing over her. "Did you not hear what I said? Silver is about to fight the Desert and Prairie packs because of you. Now is not the time to hide." Her stutter began to fade as her frustration grew. "And what sort of celebration am I supposed to have if you are not by my side?" Clover rose to her feet. She wrapped her neck around Krix and licked his muzzle. "It's time we go watch the battle."

Misty continued to glare at the alphas as Ember tugged her away, her hackles raised and her chest heaving from indignation. When they met her gaze, somewhat quelled, she bared her teeth at them, causing them to flinch before straightening so no one saw.

Krix tilted his head, his eyes roaming over Clover. God she's beautiful when she's angry, he thought before he could stop himself. Admittedly he wasn't listening to a thing she was saying, he was too focused on the way her chest heaved as she huffed out breaths and the way her eyes flashed with determination and a fire he couldn't tear his eyes away from. Giving himself a mental shake he refocused himself, blinking rapidly and almost shaking his head. Clearing his throat he met her gaze. "If I am going back with you I am not watching Silver fight while I sit on the sidelines like some scared pup," he snipped, rolling his eyes. Letting out a deep sigh he began an easy, fast paced lope through the tunnels back to the clearing. His steps faltered as they reached the edge of it and he slowed to a walk. He pinned his ears for a second before letting out a breath and walking forward.

The instant he stepped into the open the clearing gradually went completely silent then whispers ensued, more numerous then before. "Look at his fur!" "Is that the Sands mutt?" "Weren't his parents the first rogues?" "Is that the Rogue Pack Alpha Krix?" The whispers got more and more ridiculous the farther they traveled, Krix's expression becoming stony hard the more he heard. "I heard his parents killed wolves when they left their packs" "I heard he kidnapped the new Queen so she couldn't mate with Silver" "I heard he mutilates the wolves in his pack so they get thrown out of their packs and have to stay with him" The last one caused his expression to shut down entirely, his walls slamming into place so fast he looked about an inch from killing the next wolf to talk him, this one subconscious action causing the nearby wolves to shrink back in horror, disgust, and fear.

As Krix reached Silver and the Queens he glanced at Misty for a second before leveling his gaze on Silver. "I hear you aim to fight for me," he stated simply, his voice hard and blunt. "What lapse in judgement made you think that would ever be a good idea?"

The High Moon Pack and the Northern Pack stared hard at the two Southern Packs. They learned the hard way and their loyalties were unwavering. Even Demon finally understood what everyone had been missing. Silver saw Krix approach, his temper seemingly short. Clover wasn't too far behind.
"Glad you could make it, Krix." Stated Silver proudly. "For the record," started Silver. "They challenged my throne. Forest law, as you well know, says I must accept, however I get to set the terms. If you happen to benefit from this fight, well then, that's just going to be the fat on the bones." Silver laughed. "Sit back and enjoy the show." Silver turned his attention on the Alphas. "I'm ready when you are."

Ember managed to pull Misty off to the side, over by Krix and Clover. After exchanging affection with Clover, they sat ready observe the battle that would take place.

Krix narrowed his eyes slightly at the wolves behind Silver. “I am not going to sit here like I can’t fight for myself Silver,” he said, his words still sharp with poorly concealed anger. His temper had already worn thin just from the walk over here though he was trying to hold it in for Clover’s sake, he was a completely different wolf when mad and he didn’t want her to think poorly of him. This is why I don’t come into the light, he thought bitterly. No one wants us here anyway.

"Krix," Silver started, "It's not about wether tor not you can fight for yourself. My throne was challenged, not your rank as Alpha. This is not your fight, or do you wish to dishonor forest law?" Silver kept his cool. He was ready for this, he expected it. The High Moon and Northern Pack already accepted Silver and accepted the Darastrix Pack. It was time the other packs learned their place too. "If you wish, Krix, after I break their entire packs, you can have a turn. We'll heal them up for you, to prestine condition." Silver wasn't joking. "However, that is after I answer their challenge. Agreed?"

Krix hesitates, his temper still high from the comments. Releasing a breath he met Silver’s gaze, his eyes holding a sadness and a sort of defeat in them. “Silver, I won’t interfere with your challenge, but if you ever think the packs will support me being an alpha of an official pack instead of dirt shoved in a forgotten hole, you better take a hard look at the wolves under your command,” he said. Shifting his gaze across the gathered wolves Krix turned to walk out of the challenge circle. “They May accept you as king of the forest but they will never accept this pack.”

Silver looked at Misty, then looked at Demon who now fully accepted not only Silver as King, but Misty as Queen. Silver laughed. "Krix, watch and learn."
Silver took his stance. "Who will attack first?"
"Desert Pack! Tear HIM Apart!" Came the command. The alpha charged with the full force of the Desert behind him. Silver simply stepped aside and tripped the alpha with his tail. "How can I take this seriously when you aren't, Runner?" Silver laughed. However, you have disrespected my throne, and you have demonstrated malcontent for a valuable resource to this Forest. That I cannot allow. And what of you, Hunter of the Prairie? Come, I want all thirty-two of you at once!"
"Enough if this!" Yelled Hunter, leading his lack into the fight.
Silver dodged each wolf effortlessly, as if they were all moving slow. "Now I start to break you, one by one, two by two!" Declared Silver. He caught one wolf by the haunches and launched him at two others. The sounds of bones breaking echoed in the clearing as the three wolves collided.
Shadow could be heard calling out the number of broken wolves. (Three)
Silver grabbed the next one closest to him. He ran with this wolf in his jaws and by the scruff used him to club three others. (Seven)
The wolves kept at it. In three strikes, three more fell. (Ten)
Silver did not discriminate which pack he focused on first. (Eleven, Twelve, Thirteen) came the echo of Shadow's voice.
Silver was toying with them. He flung five more across the clearing, one hitting a tree. Bones breaking each time. (Eighteen)
Silver worked his way through half of the collective packs. He showed no signs of slowing. Grabbing one by the tail, he took down three more. (Twenty-one)
'Eleven more,' thought Silver, 'including Hunter and Runner.'
Five wolves attempted to pounce on Silver. He let one land on his back. Turning his head, Silver caught the one by his muzzle and slammed him on top of two of the others. (Twenty-four) came the count.
Silver charged the other two that had been there, ramming into them. The cracks echoed. (Twenty-six)
In a moment, four distinct cracking sounds resonated in the clearing. (Thirty)
Silver saved the Alphas for last. He wanted them to witness their entire packs fall and how helpless they were to stop it. He pinned both alphas, his paws on their throats. "Now, do either of you have a problem with my throne? Or with my choice of advisors? Do either of you wish for this to continue?"
Both wolves conceeded their defeat. Their humiliation and their humbling at Silver's power. "We abdicate our position as alpha. They said with horror in their voice.
"Good, your packs are now one. Stoneheart will give your pack a name, however, you two are no longer members of this pack. Krix, these two are now your personal guard. Teach them the ways of the Darastrix, and teach them some respect." Silver returned to his mates, he showed his affection for both of them before taking his place on top of the fallen Oak.