Fuel to the Flame

Aresenn stood on the crest of the valley, hearing the echoes of his voice spill throughout the sound. The heat was oppressive, even here in the northern taiga, and he could see the harsh rays glinting off the slate faces of the cliffs. But it didn't deter him; in fact, he welcomed it - the sweltering sun was the perfect weather to test the mettle of those willing to show up. He watched as they gathered one by one, emerging from the cooling shadow of the cliffs or surfacing from dives in the inlet.

After enough had gathered around him, Aresenn rose to his full height, his red fur bristling like an inferno under the blazing sun. His voice resounding the space between them, "We stand here, not as individuals but as a unit, each relying on the other, for survival, for strength, for victory.” He paused, turning sharply to face them again, his black-marked eyes scanning each of his packmates with a critical gaze- specifically lingering on those of his kids who had answered his summons. "But if we rely on our capability to attack as individuals … well, the odds may be stacked against you. You must learn to strike with unified purpose, to flow as one entity on the battleground. Today, we are going to test that unity." And perhaps learn a thing or two along the way.

"Aresenn Praetor"