Ghoul was attempting his best effort at remaining calm. He was the cool and collected brother. The emotionless one. The one who never understood why anyone would get up in arms over anything. There had been one time and one time only that he had ever felt anger and it was after being beaten by that runt twice in a row. At that time, he had taken his frustrations out on Macabre, feeling an automatic release as soon as he could unleash violence. Was that perhaps a negative tendency about the pale spotted boy? Sure. Was he going to recognize it as such? Probably not until later in life.  

With his ruby eyes fixated on Medusa and Medusa alone, he barely registered the shoulder brush from Macabre. While he favored all of his littermates the same, Mac had and would always be his favorite. They all knew it, there was no hiding it. Leaning back absent-mindedly to return the shoulder bump, he was quickly distracted by the approach of their mother. The feel of her nose brushing against his cheek was comforting in a sense as she murmured words to them. Come hell and high water, if Medusa was crowned victorious, Ghoul would do everything in his power to see her buried six feet under.

Other wolves came next, one after the other. Then two more of his siblings until they were only missing Viscera. Widow's offer to throw her in the volcano prompted a sneer and a chuckle from Ghoul. "Only if we rip her limb from limb first," he hissed under his breath as he glanced over his shoulder at Ichor. "I would hope Ichor that if our mother loses that you would help us enact revenge first," the sneer turned smirk crossing his lips as he turned to look back at the now-started challenge would soon fade. Off on the neutral side, a pair of beady eyes looked at him.

An all too familiar face lingered along the sidelines and suddenly Ghoul's ferocity skyrocketed. What was that pipsqueak doing here? God forbid they ever learn each other's name, but it wouldn't be worth it in the end. There is no thought, only fury, as Ghoul stood and began to quickly prowl toward the midget of a wolf. Even as another maim broke out on the other side, Ghoul was all eyes for the shadowy boy that had too much ego shoved up his ass. With his ears flattened, every hair along his back raised, and lips pulled up in a grueling snarl, he had no words. As the space between him and the minuscule yearling closed, Ghoul lunged forward. One mighty paw raised back before swiping forward with all he had. Aiming directly for the striped marking on his face, Ghoul hoped this facial scarring would knock the kid down a peg or two.

Ghoul vs Levi for Maim (Facial Scarring)
Round 1/1
Age: Over 1
Size: Extra large
Build: Heavy
Offensive Battle Accessory: Claw gloves
Defensive Battle Accessory: Wolf skull mask
Companion 1: Albino dwarf caiman, Female - Battle
Companion 2: Albino dwarf caiman, Male - Battle
*Companion 3: Albino dwarf caiman, Male - Battle
Skills: Master Hunter & Master Fighter
Specialty: Relentless

Levi's attention was seized by an approaching pale blur, all tooth and claw as it barrelled his way, intent clear. It took him a moment to register what was going on, that the sore loser was seemingly attacking him in public, unprovoked, and intended to make him bleed. Very well. The reasons behind this fight didn't matter in the end, Levi didn't have time for any of that as his hackles raised, bristling as he adjusted his position and sprung into action. Aiming to dip out of the way of his extended strike, Levi reached up with a hooked claw of his own, he wanted his eye. To yank it clean out and throw it back in his face, that would serve him right.

His intent was clear but his aim a little off, understandable due to how out of nowhere this had come from. Should the hit land it wouldn't take his eye...just gouge the surrounding skin a bit, leave a deep cut that hurt. That'd be good enough, probably.


Levi vs Ghoul for maim (scarring around the eye)
Round 1/1
Age: over 1
Size: Extra small
Build: Light
Offensive Battle Accessory: Tail blade
Defensive Battle Accessory: Metal chest piece
Companion 1: Black Vulture, Male - Battle
Companion 2: Black Shiba Inu, Male - Battle
*Companion 3: Jerboa with spiked tail, Male - Battle - Boosted
Mutation 1: Saber fangs - Offensive
Mutation 2: Raptor claws - Offensive
Mutation 3: Scruff spines - Defensive
Skills: Master Fighter & Master Navigator
Specialty: Saboteur (not applicable)

He'd been sitting there, minding his business, absentmindedly just...looking around. Hadn't even realized his gaze had strayed a moment too long towards someone he didn't even know as he wondered if wolves were always that short if there were shorter ones. He didn't even know who the kid was, didn't really care. But apparently, someone had taken offense to Ignis zoning out in that direction and hadn't even really noticed that the bastard that had trespassed to start shit on Plunder's lands was coming towards him. It wasn't until his cockatoo squawked an annoyingly loud alarm that he refocused in the nick of time, and saw Azure standing right in front of him.

What the fuck!? The moment Azure raised his paw and Ignis spotted it, he wasted no time in acting. Though it was mostly out of reflex, but it seemed his reflexes had to be fast these days. Despite the stinging pull of the new wound he had received from Azure just days(?) prior, he ignored it as he lunged forward like a spring, seeking to grab the very paw that Azure had raised against him and bring his teeth around it, looking to crack the limb between his jaws while simultaneously looking to bend the limb at an angle towards Azure as he twisted his head inwards and to the side with the intention of straining and possibly breaking it at the elbow.

He had done nothing but sit there and mind his own business. Ignis had no quarrel with the Armadan, and yet the bastard seemed to think he had a right to harass and attack him as if he'd done something to him. Wasn't this the guy that Sparrow had stolen from? He didn't even remember the woman's name! He had all of one sort of conversation with her, but that was it. He didn't care who she was, who this guy was, nor what their issues were with Sparrow. But he'd be damned if he let someone just waltz up to him and attack him. He was sure he had done that to others, but...the only ones he clearly remembered attacking unprovoked was his own kid and Eden. Beyond that? it had been Blödhgarm's warped game...and the bastard appeared to be dormant at this moment in time.

Ignis vs Azure for Minor maim - Breaking of the foreleg
Round: 1/1
Age: over 1yr
Size: Dire wolf
Build: Heavy
Offensive Battle Accessory: Skull helmet
Defensive Battle Accessory: Black bear cape
Companion 1: Palm cockatoo, Male - Flying
Companion 2: Wolverine, Male - Battle
Mutation 1: Sika deer antlers - Offensive
Skills: Master Fighter & Master Hunter
Specialty: Mangler
+5% fight pass might as well waste it here lmao

"Ignis"||"Blödhgarm"

The Warlord came at the sound of the challenge. To stand witness and support to his ally, Recluse and Habari. He arrived to see Artorias and Zeph there, and then his eyes moved to a second lot of fighting wolves - only to realise his son had gotten into a brawl with another wolf. A pirate, by the scent of him. The Warlord let out a disappointed growl, that Azure would let himself be goaded at a public event such as this.


His eyes moved across the wolves, and he found Wren placed in the side of neutrality. He supposed she hadn’t had a chance yet to meet with and build an alliance with the Habari wolf. As he placed himself next to Artorias - on the side clearly aligned with Habari, he indicated for Wren to join him. Though he did not know if she would, and he would hold no grudge if she decided to keep her place in neutrality.

As a wolf moved to attack Levi, the Warlord narrowed his eyes. More so surprised to realise the wolf was of the Habari pack. “Do you make it a habit to attack your pack's allies?” he growled at Ghoul. If Recluse won this, he would make a note to speak of whatever conflict was brewing there with her. But for the moment, he let Levi stand up for himself. They were both yearlings, and Levi knew his family was there if he needed them. He turned to Artorias with a sigh. “This is starting to feel rote.” He said, indicating the pirates and one of his in a battle. If Levi hadn’t been defending himself, he would be forced to discipline the pup. Someone should really do something about the pirates one of these days…


"Speech"

It was important to know the political landscape of the world, and there was much to be learned from a challenge such as this one. He had little ties to the contestants, though he vaguely knew of Medusa from her time in the Menagerie. I was surprised that any wolf Wren would put her faith in would make such a move, but he did not know the details and withheld his judgement.

He was here to observe, learn, and of course to offer a measure of protection to his Alpha and mate. He made his way directly towards Wren’s side, and sat beside the beautiful tawny wolf. Leaning slightly into her, the posture marginally protective but not overly so. A small, simple declaration. His support was with her, wherever that might be. “Do you know the playing field?” He asked her softly, wondering what insights she might be able to share.

"Speech"

Misery made his way quietly to where the challenge was taking place.  He’d wanted the slave damaged and punished more for her previous crimes and it seemed he had been right.  Guess he should have suggested it to mom back during the long nights of strange events but he’d been quite busy.  Medusa had been an annoyance worthy of skinning but there had been more important matters.  Really, she would have been a good test subject instead of other animals when trying to find a cure for the sickness.

The fact mom had let her be free and now she had come back to challenge them?  She was challenging his mom who had been far kinder to that waste of life than necessary.  It should bow down and thank Recluse for suffering her.  

The small black wolf with his pale silver backside made his way to watch the fight but paused as another unwanted event was going on.  Misery stared hard at his younger brother Ghoul trying to ruin good pack relations while mother was fighting for control of the pack.  The small wolf glanced back to Recluse and Medusa for another moment then made his way to where Ghoul was fighting Levi.  The boy got a deserved glare but since the Armada alpha was letting them fight it out Misery would not stop it either.

Misery made a low respectful bow to Sirius, “I’m sorry for this,” nodding to Levi and Ghoul.  “I wasn’t aware one of my brothers could be so foolish.” The last word had an edge of irritation in it. “I’ll make sure Recluse is aware of it and see about some form of punishment.  If you have any preference on his style of correction I’m sure mother would be willing to discuss something suitable you can both agree upon.” This was proof of how idiotic some of his siblings were.

This was a much smaller concern than the state of this fight.  Misery would far prefer to be focusing on the challenge and thinking up what should be done if mom actually did lose.  Mother was a better fighter, of that Misery had no doubt, but she also was not in the best of conditions now.  Medusa needed to be dealt with, regardless.  However, even if this was a smaller detail it was important.  Allies being wronged could not be ignored.  

"Misery"

Her ears perked when she heard footsteps approaching. But when she looked to see who it was, it wasn't exactly who she was waiting for. Still, it was someone she had hunted with! Her tail wagged for a moment as another approached, but she had no clue who that was. Seemed to be a friend or something of the other girl. They took their seats, and Wren arrived next. She was going to offer a greeting but noticed the look of disapproval on her features. Medusa's tail fell limp, brows furrowing. Confusion settled in. Why did Wren look that way? Shouldn't she be proud or something? Medusa didn't care that Recluse had given her the freedom she had wanted. She wasn't satisfied with the fact she hadn't gotten the chance to taste the bitch's blood when she sought to fight for her freedom. She thought Wren was her friend. And friends supported each other, didn't they? She shrugged it off for now. Tucking the issue away for later as more showed up. Another wolf she didn't know, and then...Ghoul. Medusa's smile twisted back onto her features. Oh he looked pissed. "Surprise!" Sure, he had been the nicest to her during her stay in Habari. But not once had he ever tried to defend her or anything. Not once did he seem to care when he watched as his now-dead sister broke her toes on Recluse's order. So that made him just as bad as the rest of them. Besides, he never actually said he was her friend or anything. She had always been iffy on him. Never really had any conversations that were worth anything in her opinion. Making traps? Hunting? One training session together? Awkward conversation? That didn't make him her friend. He sat idly by while she got the brunt of the pack's ire no matter what she did. It was no wonder she kept leaving...and yet, she still came back. Weird. The cow brother of his showed up next, looking equally as offended. But she didn't care about him really. She had already whooped his ass twice over now, along with another or two of Recluse's kids, so she couldn't say that he was worth giving her time or attention to. And then finally. Finally! The one she had been waiting for showed up. And boy did she look as equally pissed as Ghoul! Her grin grew wider, head ticking a bit as the adrenaline already started to course through her. Claws scraped into the ground. Umbra had taken her armor and weaponry somewhere for safe keeping on their way to the battlefield. Medusa's tongue swiped out to lick her lips, her smile growing ever wider as Recluse took up her position. “I showed you mercy.” Medusa couldn't help but cackle almost immediately after that was said. "Mercy? After stealing two years of Medusa's life? Ha!" Some mercy that was! “I thought we had both been through enough to let you have your freedom as a mercy. Even when you taunted me over my dead child, I chose to turn the other cheek.” Medusa took a deep, exagerrated breath, head cocking to the side. "Karma's a bitch, isn't she?" For both Kali and Recluse. They both deserved it. Kali for breaking her toes. And Recluse for other reasons that were quite obvious to Medusa. And hey, Medusa definitely didn't leave out the fact that karma might hit her hard in this fight, either. “You’ve mistaken my kindness for weakness… No more.” Medusa couldn't help herself. She cackled again, a little more drawn out this time. Who was this psychopath fooling!? "You've mistaken me for many things, and now Medusa is here to pay it all back." win or lose, at least she'd finally get her fight! If she lost? Meh. If she won? Well hey, it was a bonus. She didn't really care if she won or lost. She had just wanted to fight the dumb broad and today she'd finally get to. Too bad it took this to get Habari's alpha to actually do it though. More spectators showed up, but Medusa paid them hardly any mind as her eyes never left Recluse. She was a snake in the grass and about as blind as a bat. But Medusa had learned from her hunts and constant fighting practice not to underestimate her opponent. She had never fought Recluse, obviously. And likewise, Recluse had never fought her. She was very well aware that either of them could have a few tricks up their sleeve. ***Fight starts here*** The moment Recluse started to shift into her defenses, Medusa had done the same. She lowered her head over her throat, tail flagging out to align with her spine. Her ears pinned close to her crown, dual-toned gaze narrowing to protect her eyes while her lips peeled back to bare fangs, muzzle wrinkling to further help protect her face. Hackles rose along her neck and spine, followed by the bunching of her scruff while toes splayed and claws gripping the earth for the inevitable moment she decided to move. Her knees bent to allow her more limber movement as well. They stood about ten feet apart from one another. Medusa’s gaze did not leave Recluse’s form, and likewise, Medusa’s companions watched the albino alpha as they stood on either side of the skeletal marked woman. Umbra at her left flank, and Nox on her right flank. She was ready! And the moment Recluse charged at Medusa, she (Medusa) sprang into action as well with her companions running with her so they could get into prime position when they felt it was time to make their moves. Medusa sought to draw close to Recluse, her eyes focused on her target area and not so much on Recluse’s mug, therefore, not falling for Recluse’s attempt at tricking her. Medusa sidestepped towards her own right, seeking to line up the point of her left shoulder with the space between Recluse’s left shoulder where the joint connected to the albino woman's body. She would try and attempt to use Recluse’s momentum against her as she (Medusa) aimed to make the hit, hoping to severely strain and/or potentially dislocate Recluse’s shoulder joint and render the limb useless (or cause as much damage as she could to it) early in the fight. Simultaneously, she raised her left forepaw and sought to quickly slam it down with as much force as she could onto Recluse's left forepaw with the intention and hope of pinning the paw to the ground and potentially breaking the outer toes. She hoped as well that her sudden change in movement would throw Recluse off a bit to aid her in this. Her own movement would, of course, cause Recluse’s attempt to hit her chest and lower ribs to be unsuccessful. Though Medusa was sure she’d at least come out with a light to moderate bruise of her own from her own attempted shoulder throw. Her main goal was to try and avoid those weird snake fangs that Recluse had. So as a second measure of attack, Medusa’s jaws gaped open, potentially using Recluse’s lowered head against her as well, Medusa would tilt her head to her own left and towards the back of Recluse’s head. Medusa’s fangs aimed just at the base of the alpha’s skull (just above the scruff & behind the ears) with her upper fangs seeking to hone in on the furthest side away from her (the right side of Recluse’s neck/spine), while lower fangs sought to dig into the side closest to her (the left side of Recluse’s neck/spine). Her goal here was an attempt to lacerate or puncture the albino bitch and to gain a powerful grip on the back of Recluse’s head in an effort to control her movement, maybe even leave an ugly scar if she was lucky. Medusa vs Recluse for Pack Challenge Height: 41" Build: Light Round 1/3 "Medusa"

It had turned into a shit show.

Wren was silent for a bit before she sighed softly, happy that Mercury was here but thankful that Beauregard had come too. "Come, I see Sirius" first thing was first, giving a bump against Mercury with her nose to his cheek. She rose and began to drift to Artorias and Sirius, leading her wolves toward them "Sirius, Artorias" she said to both as she neared, giving respectful and polite nods to the alphas "I had hoped to catch you when you were at Armada, Cinder Lord, but I shouldn't be surprised you're here." She gave a wry grin at Artorias, as if sharing exhaustion.

"This is Beauregard, one of our yearlings and apprentice of Mercury, my partner and Lead Fighter" she introduced the little Menagerie gathering "Mercury and Beauregard, this is Artorias of the Hallows and Sirius of the Armada" Wren settled near them, but not directly next to him. She hadn't missed Sirius' disapproval of Azure's actions either but was a bit shocked Ghoul would openly attack a wolf like that "I was here from the start" she told them all gathered "Medusa is a friend... she had been enslaved in Habari for two years of her life. However, I don't approve of her challenging Habari. Especially when Recluse released her. I tried to talk her out of revenge..."

Wren sighed, dipping her head in defeat.

"I'll be having a talk with her, and she isn't allowed in Menagerie after this" she added to Mercury and Beau if they saw her again "but then I spotted Ghoul, one of Habari's wolves attack one of Armada's sons" Wren kept her tone civil and neutral "after Azure came and... ah, slapped that wolf. No reason, I don't think. I was sitting and saw the fighting start with all of them." She would have jumped in with Levi if she knew Levi was at a disadvantage, but the red wolf and Azure's fight seemed... Well, she wouldn't jump in to help a seasoned fighter like Azure but she also would not fight a battle that seemed to have no provocation. Wren didn't know the beef between them, but it seemed bullying to just bitch slap a wolf who was minding his business.

"Is the red wolf part of Habari?" she asked both experienced alphas, frowning. Trying to make sense of Azure's actions and wondering when to step in to defend any ally.

"Speech"

He nodded his head respectfully to the Habari wolf as he spoke on Habari’s half. “Thank you. I would like to find out what that is about” he concluded, but his attention shifted to Wren as she came to join them. He gave her shoulder a gentle pat of greeting. “Hello, Beauregard, Mercury” He said as they were introduced. The dark wolf as her mate which surprised him. He gave the other wolf an appraising look before the conversation moved on.

“The red wolf is part of the Plunder” he said, keeping his voice soft and just for the wolves directly around him. “In their latest round of heckling the Armada they kidnapped Azure’s mate. Our diplomat on her rounds. A pack that would choose a diplomat ” his voice was soft, but the bitterness showed through. He shook his head. “Azure’s timing might be out of place, but his reasons are sound. I doubt I could show restraint to any who tried to take Zee from me.”


"Speech"

And the winner is...

Azure

Ignis must give up by submitting, fleeing or passing out. Azure's maim is successful. Totals: Ignis : Attack Roll: 71 Defense Roll: 68 Agility Roll: 10 Perception Roll: 73 Total: 222 Attack[71] + 105% Bonus[74.55]: 145.55 Defense[68] + 15% Bonus[10.20]: 78.20 Agility[10] + 0% Bonus[0.00]: 10.00 Perception[73] + 10% Bonus[7.30]: 80.30 Total[314.05] + 30% Bonus[94.22]: 408.26 Azure: Attack Roll: 64 Defense Roll: 76 Agility Roll: 31 Perception Roll: 77 Total: 248 Attack[64] + 110% Bonus[70.40]: 134.40 Defense[76] + 10% Bonus[7.60]: 83.60 Agility[31] + 0% Bonus[0.00]: 31.00 Perception[77] + 0% Bonus[0.00]: 77.00 Total[326.00] + 40% Bonus[130.40]: 456.40

Gossamer made the decision to take advantage of spring while it was still here. She had split up her stores, giving the vast majority to the Armada and now she wanted to get a store together for Menagerie as well. She'd finished her pack and was heading back north from the Gulley when she heard a pack challenge. Her eyes narrowed. Another one? What was going on? From her distance she did not recognize the call nor know who it was for but she hastened to the source to see what was occuring. With any luck there wouldn't be any pirates there.

When Gossamer did arrive it was to chaos. Around her were a number of fights and she realized that it was Habari being challenged by some strange loner. She quickly focused on Wren, Sirius and Artorias and made her way over arriving as Wren explained the situation. She scowled at the mention of the pirates having kidnapped Hanako. Yea, that sounded about right. Not that she was all that close to the koi wolf but she had no problem adding more reasons to her list of dislike for the pirates. At least that old hag didn't seem to be present. Maybe ripping her ear off taught her a lesson. "Just let me know if either of you need anything from me. I don't think I'll be seeing my 'old friend' here." Gossamer grinned proudly. "Ran into her up north. She's now an ear shorter."

Another battle for land and title, it seemed. While returning from Elysium, the raucous cacophony of snaps, snarls and cheering voices met the brute's ears. He couldn't rightly ignore such intriguing sounds and so the giant adjusted his course. Familiar scents drifted to him on the wind and his curiosity grew. Just what was going on over the rise?

Breaking through the ring of spectators, the Fenmyrian king's mismatched eyes shifted, landing upon a pair of combatants, one of whom was his half sister. Off to the side another fight broke out among some red creature and Azure, whom he vaguely remembered from childhood. The man's gaze shifted, scanning the crowd until it fell upon the black, blue and silver form of his only friend. Once again he adjusted his course, coming up beside Artorias and giving the brute a friendly shoulder bump. "Interesting show," rumbled low vocals as he directed his attention back towards the combatants.

"Chimera Klein"

Azure felt his claws rake flesh upon the crimson beast for the second time, narrowly outspeeding him before he could break the offending leg in retaliation. The one hit was all that he needed to assert himself over Ignis, already stepping back from the man as his blood began to spill out from the wounds. "That boy is my son." Azure stated simply, lifting his head to meet the red wolf's gaze. "If you think I went scorched earth over the capture of my mate, fuck with him and the wrath of the entire Armada will be upon you." His explanation given, Azure flicked his paw to discard the drops of blood from his claws, turned, and strode back to where his family had gathered.

He arrived just as Gossamer did, catching the tail end of the hushed conversation the group was having. Wren had joined them on Habari's side, but did not seem pleased by Azure's attack upon Ignis (nor did his father, it seemed.) "The bastard was eyeing my son." He growled, as if the mere fact was explanation enough. "He'll find it harder to stare, now." While he had not intended on going after a wolf who was minding his own business, Azure was on high-alert for any risk of retaliation for what he had brought down upon Sparrow's pack. Ignis' staring might have been mild curiosity or the beginning of a malicious plot, but regardless of the beast's intentions, Azure was keen to cut the legs out from under any potential threat before it reared it's head - especially when the target was one of his own children.

To Goss he nodded his approval, pride in his tone. "That pirate bitch? Good, her and Sparrow can cry over their missing ears together, then. Well done, sister." His bloodied paw lifted to clap her on the shoulder before he moved to take his prior place in the group.

"Speech"

Artorias watched the fight before him with an analytical stare, sharp amber eyes picking apart the moves and maneuvers the combatants made. He studied Recluse and the stranger's fighting styles. Zephyrus had obediently taken a seat beside him, following Artorias' instructions to the letter. His ward asked in hushed tones what they were fighting over, and Art pointed a sapphire blue paw to Recluse, then to the stranger. "Recluse is an alpha, like I am. She leads Habari. The other wolf is challenging her for control of her pack. She wants to take over Habari by force," he explained to his inquisitive son. He knew pack structures were something of a mystery to Zeph, but he had no doubts the young avian would know the rites of strength that prevailed throughout nature across species. Just as creatures fought for resources and lands and mates, wolves also fought for dominance and power.

The Aegis missed the double-take Azure made to him and his ward, but he didn't miss when his brother-in-law rose and moved past him, headed in the direction of a bright red wolf. Artorias watched curiously, then spectated in shock as Azure delivered a slap directly to the red wolf's face, instantly kicking off a brutal fight between the two on the sidelines. Somewhere close by, another fight had broken out, this time between young Levi and a wolf that smelled of Habari. What the fuck was going on? Artorias watched the carnage unfold around him for a moment, his attention torn between the three separate fights that seemed to break out. The sudden sound of Sirius' voice beside him caught his ear, and he turned to his father-in-law with a dour grimace, nodding his head assent. "You can say that again... It's one power struggle after another..." Were they all doomed to repeat history until everyone lay dead? He didn't like the pirates any more than the Armada did, but Azure clearly had no intentions of de-escalating the violence any time soon, nor did the pirates seem to be the "forgive and forget" type. Artorias had the gut feeling that this was just the tip of the iceberg they were witnessing here.

More showed up to the fight—including a dark-furred male Art recognized from their brief encounter. Mercury took his place by Wren's side, and the eagle-eyed Aegis didn't miss the way he leaned into her side where the other wolf with her did not. A curious eyebrow raised. That was awfully familiar for an alpha and a pack wolf... Suddenly Artorias began to wonder about Mercury's unexpected appearance at his pack. Had he truly been showing an innocuous interest in the Hallows, or had he been probing the pack for the alpha he was in bed with? He didn't know Wren, and he didn't know Mercury enough to discern one way or the other. The benefit of the doubt would be given as he wasn't a naturally suspicious wolf, but his caution remained.

At some point, the trio made their way over to the group, and Wren greeted Sirius and himself in turn. "Wren," the Aegis greeted her back with equal civility, though his eyes didn't leave the chaos that had erupted around them. He remained on guard, the heft of his sword on his back bringing him comfort if things got out of hand. He had his ward to protect, after all, and he wasn't above cutting down the other spectators if it meant keeping Zeph safe. Wren introduced her companions—Mercury and Beauregard—to which Artorias regarded the two with a courteous nod of his head. He would have smiled, but smiles felt out of place here. "We've met," Artorias replied while glancing to Mercury, certain the other man would have told Wren about his trip to Auster by now, then he looked to Beauregard as he added, "Nice to meet you, Beauregard. A shame it's under these circumstances." That was, in the midst of a bloody and violent affair. Seemed these pack challenges were the social events of the season. He gestured with a paw up to the giant raptor at his side. "This is my son, Zephyrus," he introduced the bird to the Menagerie wolves, then added with a smirk and a glance to his massive ward, "Despite how he looks, he's no threat to you."

Wren and Sirius began to exchange information about the events transpiring around them. The challenger, whose name he now knew was Medusa, was a friend of Wren's. That was an interesting tidbit of information that Artorias didn't quite know what to do with yet. At least it seemed that Wren was publicly denouncing the unprovoked violence against Habari and was taking sanctions against the aggressor. Art couldn't resist a snort of barely suppressed laughter when Wren described Azure's blatant assault on the red wolf, biting his lip to hide how much it tickled him thinking back on it. She asked if the red wolf was a part of Habari, but Seer was quick to correct her on the wolf's allegiances. A pirate. Then Seer revealed that the pirates had kidnapped Hanako, provoking Azure's wrath. Artorias felt a twinge of guilt for finding amusement when he'd met Keahi and assumed she was Hana's replacement when in reality she was being held hostage. Artorias and Azure may have held starkly different opinions and personalities, but there was one thing they could always find common ground on: they both hated the pirates.

"I know I wouldn't show any if anyone laid a paw on Briar," Artorias spoke up while Sirius empathized with Azure's anger. If there was one thing the Warlord and Aegis found in common, it was their rage that came about when their loved ones were threatened. Hell, Art had given Sirius the scars to prove it. "The day the pirates try to take someone I love is the day they go extinct." Artorias wasn't an overtly violent wolf by any means, but he had hard lines. He showed mercy as he was taught, but those who mistook his mercy for weakness would learn that mercy had limits. While they watched the fighting and spoke, Gossamer showed up to join their party, followed shortly by Chimera. Artorias smiled to Gossy, then shot her a proud, toothy grin when she mentioned her recent run-in with Pyralis. "Looks like kicking pirate ass runs in the family," he chuckled, gesturing over to Azure who was in the process of maiming the red wolf. He turned his head to snicker at Chimera's remark, quipping back sarcastically, "Which one? The women, the men, or the kids?" With three separate fights going on, it felt more like watching a small raid than a pack challenge.

"Artorias Carpathius" | "Carpathian" | "Corbin" | "Eira" | "Argent"

“Artorias, it's lovely to see you again. I was hoping for a chance to introduce you to my Alpha, Wren. And… now mate. Hello, Zephyrus, Gossy, Azure” He released a smile at the mention of mate. It was still fresh and new to him to describe her that way. He listened as Wren explained some of Medusa’s backstory. He knew little of her, and of Habari, but he had a strong feeling there would be a lot of emotions stirred over this. He had a feeling Wren was wise not to allow her back in the Menagerie after this. If she did, she would be bringing a lot of enemies there way, and the beginning of the pack's life. “Zephyrus, if you don’t mind me saying, I’ve never met someone like you before”

"Speech"

He greeted Gossy with a distracted kiss to her brow as he kept a close eye on his surroundings, and the conversations around them. Azure returned to them, and explained how the red wolf had eyed up Levi. The Warlord let loose a soft growl of his own, and understood why Azure had decided to act then and there. “If there's ever a good reason for violence it's to protect our young” He agreed softly, and with those words he gave Azure his approval for his public act of violence.

Chimera arriving however had the Armada wolf going cold. Expression dropped from his face as he nodded his head to Artorias. “Be safe, we’ll see you back in Armada lands” he said, and ushered the group around him away from the untrustworthy viper in their midst. They already had enough problems with the pirates, he wouldn’t open old wounds right then and there… but he would warn Artorias later about the man, especially since they seemed friendly with one another.

"Speech"

Zephyr smushed even closer to Artorias' side as more fights broke out around them, his eyes wide with anticipation and fear that they might end up next. Each new wolf who approached the group made him slink a little lower, but so far none of them seemed to be dangerous or even unfriendly toward his father - and by extension, to him. There was talk of maims and taking of body parts, Artorias explained that this was how wolves fought over leadership. It was beyond anything Zephyr had imagined, and only reaffirmed his understanding that an angry canine was not one he wanted to get on the wrong side of. Remaining mostly quiet while the adults spoke, Zephyr only dared to reply when directly engaged. One such engagement was Artorias introducing him publicly, and the young raptor wilted slightly beneath the attention. "I could be a threat"He murmured beneath his breath in a typical child-like fashion, kicking the dirt with his talons and missing his training swords desperately. Maybe he'd feel safer if he had them in an environment like this, ready to decapitate any who came to strike at him or his Aegis.

One of the wolves to whom he was introduced addressed him directly and Zephyr offered the man a respectful bow of his head in greeting. "Most haven't." He gave back shyly, knowing full well how unique he seemed to be in this strange land. It was not the first wolf of Menagerie he had met, and the other two also seemed spooked by his appearance. Ducking lower so his head was well beneath his protective father's, Zephyr returned his attention to the main event and the battle between alpha and potential-alpha. "Did you have to do this, too?" He asked Artorias softly, just as another wolf came into view. As with all the other approaching strangers, Zephyr clacked his beak shut as Chimera came to stand with them and simply tried to blend in with the crowd as best as he could. Behind all the commotion and energy, he didn't even notice his grandfather attempting to pull the rest of his extended family away.

"Zephyr"

He kept close to Wren and Mercury as things began to hit the fan. He wasn’t sure he appreciated the chaos of it all, keeping quiet, at least until the alphess introduced him to some other wolves. Politely Beau dipped his head to the two of them both. “A pleasure, Sirius.” He told the larger alpha. Then his gaze shifted to the lord of cinder. “And to meet you as well, Artorias.” He also wished that their meeting wasn’t under these circumstances but hey, what could you do? His gaze shifted toward Zephyrus and he smiled. “Zephyrus and I have met once before. A pleasure to see you again!” He greeted the bird as well, no longer showing the fear he’d once shown. He paid attention to Wren particularly, her comment about the woman not to be welcomed back in Menagerie sticking in the yearling’s mind. He gave a firm nod in response, to show that he would be quick to defend their borders from the woman if she made the attempt to return. His gaze then trailed to the other wolves Wren was metnioning. Azure and some red wolf. His ears flicked back at the venom between the two males. Whatever was going on had since escalated… and Blind hopped at his paws. “Get his ass!” And the man did before returning to the party. The arctic fox grinned cockily at him and the larger man, Sirius’ words. “Couldn’t agree with you more, good sir! If that jerk threatened your kid, you should maim him. And again, if he doesn’t learn his lesson!” Beauregard frowned at the fox, shushing her quietly. “I can’t speak on a personal level… but I know if someone threatened someone from Menagerie I’d feel that desire to protect them too. Even with force, if I had to.” The yearling’s voice didn’t waver as he spoke. He meant those words. He’d protect the pack no matter the cost. "Speech," 'Thought.'

Gavroche had properly cared for her wounds and the woman was on the mend. Her leg still hurt every so often but not like it did. Her attention was since divided, turning to caring for Saga and rekindling her relationship with the winged man. Her love for the small cub was genuine and sweet… and though she had started questioning herself, and the plans they had been trying to make, the woman knew one thing for certain; she would kill for the little one as if she was her own. No, Bells corrected herself. Saga was her own. And nothing would stop her from raising the cub as such. No wolf, demon, god, whatever would tell her what to do. Curiosity brought the mixed family to the battlefield. A pack challenge was occurring it seemed, and well, it was as good a place as any to consider their options and standings. The woman moved boldly, spotting Wren but not yet daring to approach. In time, she thought, perhaps she may. But, for now, her attention pulled to the fights occurring on the battlefield… and oh? What was this? A smirk of satisfaction crossed her lips as she spotted Ignis with another man, getting exactly what he fucking deserved. Her voice was cool as she called to the red man. “Sucks being on the receiving end, doesn’t it?” She had come to a stop, gaze focused on him and eyes narrowed into slits. “Not like you don’t fucking deserve it, Ignis Praetor.” Her words were spoken with venom. She hadn’t expected to see the man there, and this time she was in control. If he came at her a second time she would be ready, by the Gods she’d be ready! Ears stood at his mistress’ side with a scowl. Leave it to Bellamy… “You’re not even one hundred percent healed from your last fight with the man. Are you sure you want to do this?” Whiskers was frowning disapprovingly as well. “Bellamy doesn’t think her fights through Ears, you know this. She reacts purely on instinct. Just… be on your guard.” She fully expected the red male to lash out at Bells, not that she could completely blame him when the woman was talking shit. "Speech" 'Thought.'

The man had been following close behind his larger mate, feeling a touch worried about their family going to the challenge. He couldn’t place his paw on why exactly but he got a sense of foreboding… like something was waiting to go wrong. The man tried not to focus on it too much, instead trying to listen to James as he spoke with and distracted little Saga. The cub was the newest addition to their family and yet she seemed to fit right in. Of course, leave it to Bells to adopt the cub of some other predatory as her own. She didn’t care what the little one looked like; there was nothing but love for the little cub. And no sooner had they arrived than was Bellamy causing trouble. Gavroche’s ears fell as he shifted away from her instinctively if only to keep James distracting the cub and keep Saga away from a potential fight. “Please don’t…” His words were a quiet whimper as he tried to beg Bellamy to not egg the man on. She had already lost once… what was she hoping to prove in some pissing match with the man? Who could maim each other the most? Had she lost her mind? He glanced back at James who was already well aware of what the femme was doing. …and working to keep Saga distracted. “This plant is called lavender, little one.” The pygmy marmoset said as he waved it back and forth. “The flowers are purple, isn’t it pretty? Do you want to smell it?” He wasn’t sure he’d be able to keep Saga’s attention for long but he’d definitely try to spare the child from looking at the fight. "Speech" 'Thought.'