Does talking to yourself make you crazy?

This place was unlike anything Rhazien had ever seen. Even with the crescent moon providing some moonlight, the bioluminescence of the frozen lake was shining so brightly. It was a dazzling sight, one Rhazien was enjoying. And he probably would have enjoyed it more, if it weren’t for the heavy, nearly suffocating thoughts lingering in his mind. Now that things were rolling with the Saxe crew, he had a feeling he was going to step into a more demanding role. Training the younger wolves was the easy part for him. In fact, he loved parting in the bloodshed, giving advice, and showing them the ropes. But Rhazien also understood, that given their young age and inexperience, they wouldn’t exactly know how to traverse the politics of running a band or pack. And that’s where Rhazien would need to keep stepping in.

Barging into a pack and demanding information was one way of handling things. But, given Rhazien’s nature, that just wasn’t his style. He was cryptic, manipulative, and had a way with his words. And, he knew that would get him much further in the world of politics, than waging war with everyone who dared to go against them. Not that it wouldn’t happen in the end anyway. Once they were more established, Rhazien would begin making his way into the neighboring territory, and eventually, other regions. All in search of information about the other packs, so they knew what they were going up against. With that in mind, he knew some practice couldn’t hurt. So why not try it out here, while he was alone, enjoying the beautiful yet desolate lake?

Each pack would be different, he assumed. Each with its own culture, ideals, desires. He would need to manipulate his personality in his approach for each one. Would need to use different dialogue, body language, etc. Taking in a breath, Rhazien would first practice an encounter with a lightly aligned pack. Deciding to use a rock in the distance as his “fake alpha” Rhazien approached it with a neutral stance. Making sure to be mindful of the border around it, which represents the treeline of a territory. He even practiced tipping his head back to release a summons for the makeshift alpha, who suddenly appeared before him in the form of a boulder. “Greetings… Hello…. Lovely day, yes?” All opening statements he could use, if the alpha who responded to his call wasn’t hostile. “I’m a nomad, searching for information… searching for knowledge… hmm.” How could he word that better? “I’m here to learn about your pack, if you’re open to teaching.” That sounded better to him- not too demanding, but forward in what information he wanted. If they went on to tell him about their pack, it would be easy to listen and engage in conversation based on what they said. And if they weren’t willing to share, well… He would have to get more creative.

Now, it was time to pretend he was approaching a more hostile pack… one like what Sephiran was trying to form, he assumed. Walking away from the rock, Rhazien’s mind was already whirling. It would be a challenge to get information from a stand-offish alpha, especially if he was by himself, and showed up at their door without even an animal companion to back him up.  Maybe he could ask to bring Sephiran’s little falcon along with him, or he could capture and train a bird of his own. He would leave that thought in the back of his mind and return to it later… because, it would be yet another way to help him facilitate a conversation to gain knowledge, instead of initiating a full-blown battle.

Turning back to the boulder, he initiated the fake calling for an alpha again. Neutral in his approach, Rhazien decided to align his tail with his hips this time. It was meant to show the fake, aggressive alpha that although he wasn’t here to battle, he wouldn’t shy away if the opportunity presented itself. “Greetings…” He began, not trying to be so thorough with the pleasantries. If he was dealing with a sour alpha, there was no need to beat around the bush. He had learned that himself back home. “I couldn’t help but notice your pack’s presence… strong and foreboding.” Not trying to kiss their ass, but simply stating a fact. “I’d like to know, what monstrosites you harbor in there, and what ideals they follow.” Hell, Rhazien could even try to form alliances, if he so happened to find a pack that was similar to what Sephrian wanted to create. “Perhaps, we have similar interests… Interested in an alliance?” Similar ideas, talk of war and famish. It sent a wave of delight down his spine, at the mere thought of it.

Well, Rhazien felt like that was enough for now. He had practiced his etiquette in two scenarios, which he knew were on the nearby horizon. Engaging in politics, keeping a straight face during conversations, hiding the bloodlust simmering just beneath the surface. It was a game Rhazien quite enjoyed, indulged in for fun even. So this little trek wasn’t unordinary for him.