It was time. With Alfrun's help the band was ready for the haust blót. Though this one would be a touch different, Valkyrie had fond memories of the autumn sacrifices she'd participated in as a child. For one she was inviting all of Boreas to attend. That in itself wasn't unusual because sacrificial feasts such as this one could be for anyone. What made this one different was the cultural makeup of those invited. It was likely none in attendance would know anything about who or what Hjarrandi was giving thanks to.

 

They would find out soon enough. As Hjarrandi's priestess, Alfrun would be leading them in giving thanks and Valkyrie was confident in her aunt's ability to bring order to the oblivious masses. The scene had been set to the Hexe's specifications. In front of Valkyrie waiting to be lit was a massive pyramid of dry wood. In addition to being symbolic and part of the festivities, the fire would serve as a beacon to guide those who would be attending.

Behind her, its legs bound tightly with grapevine, was a black stallion. The beast had been somewhere between inconsolable and enraged earlier in the day so for the safety of all involved it had been drugged into submission. It lay with its head hanging off a short stone altar and its nose pressed against the earth below.

Settled loosely around the clearing and heavily around the stallion were low tables laden with gourds of mead and wine. Hjarrandi had spared no expense in the festivities. In addition to being a time of worship for the norsemen, the events planned for the next week were meant to bring awareness to the band. Invitations had been sent to all of the packs in Boreas in the hopes that they would attend and see what Hjarrandi had to offer. Though she wouldn't hide the raiding aspect of it by any means, Valkyrie meant to heavily advertise the trading side of the band after the blót. If she had her way they would be known for two things: their ruthlessness in battle and the quality of their goods.

Valkyrie waited until the sun began its descent and then she lit the autumnal pyre. The fire was slow to catch but when it did it grew rapidly and filled not only the clearing but the surrounding woods with a warm light that could be seen for miles. It was time. She threw back her head and invited the whole of Boreas to join her in a feast. The rogues, the pack wolves, the travelers with no ties to the land - all were welcome.

OOC: Free food and drink yo! Everyone who is not a captive in Hjarrandi is welcome! This blót will be followed by market day and it can be assumed that travelers will be given places to sleep between now and then if they choose to stay. Participants have until the 25th to get here before Valkyrie and Alfrun begin speaking.

""

dark mists are cloaking what the eyes can see

Readjusting his hold on the elk Éldi pushed ahead. Opposite him was his companion Kaler. The bobcat matched his pace with Éldi's as they worked to contribute to the feast for the blót. Above them Askr flew ahead, leading the way and navigating the duo through any obstacles. The bird was also a helpful ally in alerting them to other predators that might seek to steal a piece of their kill. They had one run-in with a small group of coyotes but the creatures were easily dealt with. This was a special meal and they weren't going to surrender an ounce of it to anything… though a bear could be an unfortunate beast to attract. Especially during autumn. They'd be out trying to fatten up for the winter.

Éldi kept his ears and eyes peeled for scent and movement but the rest of the journey was uneventful. He arrived where Valkyrie had indicated the festival would take place. It was easy to identify thanks to the burning bonfire. He set the elk down and took his place. "We've brought an elk for the main course. I trust we will have enough?"

Dag lurked in the background, irritated by the captives' whines. He wasn't particularly fond of this facet of Valkyrie's roving band, but he tolerated it because - well, quite simply, it was easier to fall in line where Valk was involved. He wasn't fond of putting himself in the way of her claws. They had plenty of time to prepare for the blot, and he had some new treats and tricks to offer his bandmates and the public. Of course, the best were being saved for market day, but offered on tap for the feast was a heady peachy cider, a startlingly dark red wine, and some stems of mushrooms for the more adventurous types. He laid a ways away from the fire, enjoying the roaring heat it provided. Autumn had proved to be unseasonably cold for these parts, according to his band leader. Although Dag loved the cold, his second-most favorite environment would probably be classified as "fireside." Panting quietly in the heat, the thickly furred male placed his chin on his paws and waited for anyone who might like a sample of his wares. "dagfinn bellows!"

Dutch hadn't arrived late, but she wasn't exactly participating either. she stood outside looking in, seeing the merriment and the festivities come to bloom. on the outskirts of the Viking's event, she shot a few looks at Valkyrie and wondered when she'd be able to talk to the woman alone. her pregnant belly was swelling by the day and she was quite sure the band leader probably noticed this. though she said nothing so far if she did. spotting Eldi among the group, her recent sparring partner had brought food. Dutch had managed to hunt a small rabbit and add it to the feast before standing back. "ya look a little lost, Dagfinn" she added to the Viking man, approaching him out of all of the people here. "do you want me to start yelling for people to try your brews? I can be a good sales girl." she went on to chuckle, trying to make sure she could at least help in her final moments with the Hjarrandi. ""

The invitation had been received and Deathbelle found herself eager to respond. Though she hadn’t been particularly impressed by the woman Dutch she was very much intrigued by the band as a whole. They offered all of their guests food and drink, and despite the length of travel Belle was sure their journey would be worth the effort. The Empress led her wolves towards the gather, surprised that she recognized more than Dutch. The man she sat beside had sparred with the Klein royalty right before Ashen was raised. She offered him an amused grin before sweeping her gaze over the rest of the gathering. There was food abound, and she didn’t miss the jars of brew scattered about either. Though she’d have to skip the alcohol she was very much interested in the huge black horse that was obviously still alive. The fire also held her attention and awe. These wolves had the ability to control fire, and Deathbelle hadn’t realized how much she wanted that. Now more thoroughly impressed the she wolf made her way closer to the woman who took charge of the feast. Amused grin spread over her features the Empress made herself known, but remained silent. Her interest obvious she awaited the words of the chocolate viking. "speak."

Stock by Ria.P of dawthieves

Eisleif led Hymn closer to the feast, she’d grown fond of him over the last season and was finally ready to show her affection in public. She was older and though she would never really settle within the band she felt Hymn to be a good match. He was older and didn’t have the ambitions a younger man might. He would be the perfect partner to remain and care for any children that resulted from their union while she was able to remain the loyal member of the band and stay by Valkyrie’s side.

She offered Hymn an encouraging smile, and with no hesitation a sweet nudge to his cheek as she appeared in the clearing. The band had done well, the pyre was brilliant and the food endless. Eisleif didn’t often indulge in brews or drugs, but with the celebration she had decided to partake in anything offered to her. She side eyed Hymn and wondered if he would join her. Taking her place near Valkyrie she smiled and gave her leader a low bow of her head before seating herself comfortably.

Hannibal took the long song of an invitation in as he was patrolling the Ashen's borders. A spike of curiosity filled his form but the male decided it'd be best to first inform Banshee where he was off to. - After buzzing by Ban's den the male set off for the Blot with swift pad falls and a raised head. As he arrived the Alpha remained tall and tight but not overbearingly dominant. There was no reason to puff out his chest for it was a festival. Hannibal's eyes first met the sight of Dutch and Deathbelle separately before flicking to the Black Stallion and the bonfire. With a raised brow his strides slowed and the Right Hand fell into place next to his Empress. "These Wolves know how to put on a show." His voice was low but not a whisper. Beaming blue and pink eyes were full of wonder as they darted around the festival. He seemed to take in the sight of the tied up Horse with a long look before settling his gaze upon the woman who seemed to be in charge. A earth toned Viking tall and proud. Hannibal couldn't say he had personally met the fae before. But, soon his attention moved to Dutch. He wasn't too sure if he should approach her or even say anything at all. But, the male offered her a toothy grin. Hannibal held no shame about knocking the babe up but Belle didn't know yet. speech

If there was an open-invite event, Ash was always willing to be there. When he arrived there wasn't really anyone he knew present. Ah well, more new people for him to schmooze, right? He would make sure to enjoy himself fully at this event. For the moment, he was free of any young ones and was all up for some more adultier times. The brews and food were all enticing, and Ashmedai would indulge as much as he could without making a fool of himself. He had to remember that this band was still led by someone of acquaintance. Someone who also decided to try to rip a hole in him under the guise of a spar. Dirty vikings. It made him all the more eager for the return of his pirates. Ashmedai kept his face stoic, but his eyes glittered. He was waiting for the main attraction and had no intentions of going home empty handed today.

GOT AN ANGEL ON MY SHOULDER But the devil always won... Harbringr trotted along after his siblings as they headed to the viking festival. He'd forgotten what exactly it was called but it sounded like a good time to him. Costanza soared above him, her pale, silent form slipping through the darkness like a graceful ghost. The gathering looked to be a good one, including fresh game, booze and a raging bonfire. He didn't quite understand the purpose of the great, black horse. He assumed it would be some sort of extra meal if the variety of game was not enough to sate all the guests. He moved to sit on the other side of Deathbelle. Leaning over he sniffed inquisitively at the alcohol in front of him before staring at Belle's. Grinning he playfully leaned over to nudge her shoulder. "Want me to take that off your paws?"

Pyrrhic had no idea what this 'blot' thing was, but the invitation had promised days of feasting followed by some kind of marketplace. It was his understanding that an invitation had been extended to every pack in Boreas - and though the promise of food and sales was tempting, it was the promise of a diverse gathering that prompted Pyrrhic to attend. At the very least he could people watch here. The godling paused just beyond the glow of the firelight to look the scene over. His eyes drifted over the fire and those gathered before settling on the strangely placid-looking stallion. He eyed it suspiciously and wondered what kept it from fighting its restraints. Perhaps whatever kept it still would be available at the marketplace. "Pyrrhic" "Benkos"

Hymn would follow behind his snowy companion, glad that there was acknowledgement between them now, she lead him towards the gathering and he gently returned her affection, nosing at her ear in return and responding to Eis' smile with a grin of his own. He was much too old to be running off on too many adventure's now but that didn't mean he couldn't enjoy a rowdy get together. He wasn't sure what might be offered tonight, some drink he could handle but he wasn't too keen on pushing his luck with any substance he didn't yet know. He would approach Valkyrie, giving her a gracious dip of his head as a greeting before moving off to sit beside Eis though notably away from her as well, he didn't want to give the apperance of being among those leading the festival. He idly cast his gaze away from the pyre, towards the passive horse, his mind wandering to its purposes, not all too pleasant. "Speech"

Torin heard the call and knew he must attend, well maybe must was a strong word but he knew it would be in his interest to check it out. He's sought out his father, asking for him to accompany him, he wasn't keen on walking into the unknown without someone to watch his back and as loathe as he was to leave his pack without its senior-most warrior he also valued his father's judgment, so Kairi would just have to hold down the fort. The trek wasn't too long and as he emerged from the trees, he knew he'd arrived, the pyre easily lighting up the island as a signal to all around. A beacon, but to welcome them or to trap them he did not know. After shaking off his nerves the man approached the gathering, gaze falling on many unfamiliar faces, and two he recognized though he kept his expression blank. Torin's gaze found the young woman that seemed to be the one conducting the feast and he gave her a slow, careful but respectful dip of his head, settling himself away from the others. There would be time for revelry in a bit, for now, he was more curious of those around him and the reason for the summons, he'd rather keep his wits about him. "Silent Treatment" & Deep thoughts

It was his first time meeting those in the band that Dutch had joined and oh was he intrigued. The dark colored wolf would linger on the outskirts, clinging to what shadow he could and stubbornly ignoring the fire in the center of it all. The bright flames were enough to have his just subsiding headache flare up again. These surface dwellers enjoyed the sun and heat too much for his liking, but Dutch called the place home and abided by the customs...he would tolerate it for the night...or try to. The cave dweller eventually found his sister standing next to another wolf and his ears went forward, stepping towards her a bit nervously. Pausing momentarily he bent his head to grab onto the nose of the porcupine he'd managed to kill...well...sort of. Was he supposed to bring something or was that left to the band members? Oh well...it was a nice gesture...right?

Thoren approached the pile with narrowed eyes, attempting to let as little light in as possible. Carefully he placed the porcupine down to avoid the while before taking a step back and then abruptly turning to find Dutch. Approaching her with a bit of excitement, he showed no hesitation in stepping to her and brushing his head against hers, arching his neck to embrace her in a form of hug before politely stepping back. "Told you I'd make it " He would lightly tease, a rarity with Thoren but something he only offered his sister typically. Amber gaze shifted to the wolf she stood next to and for a moment there was uncertainty in his eyes. How did they greet others? Settling for simplicity, he would dip his head in greeting while showing respect. "I'm Thoren.." Eyes shifted between the two, unsure who to settle on.


Thoren brings a porcupine as an offering.

Aureus trailed after his brother with Kali at his side and Griff soaring through the air above. He was curious about the invitation but also wary. His first thought was that it might be some sort of elaborate trap but opting instead for a bit of good faith he tagged along, wanting to make sure his brother wasn't alone amongst strange wolves. If this was indeed a party it would be a good chance to get a feel for the current alphas that ruled Boreas.

Eyeing the drink and the bonfire he moved to sit next to his brother, gaze falling on the bound stallion. He glanced questioningly at Pyrrhic as he wondered if the beast was to be the main course.

She nodded warmly to Eldi to reassure him, but didn’t correct his mistake. The stallion was the main course but with the elk they were sure to have enough for both the participants and for the slaves who would probably appreciate a good meal. “We will have plenty,” she said confidently. “And Eldi, would you mind assisting Alfrun if she needs it?” Valkyrie too would be helping, but something things didn’t go according to plan and it would be good to have backup.

 

Every nod and greeting was returned by the marauder but for the most part Valkyrie remained silent and watchful as wolves gathered.

Valkyrie waited until the smaller logs in the fire began to collapse and send embers into the air before she addressed the gathering. “Heil og sæl," she said in a loud voice meant to grab the attention of the group before switching to english. “Welcome and thank you all for joining us. My name is Valkyrie and I am the Drottin, or leader, of the band Hjarrandi. I doubt many of you have had a chance to participate in a blót so there are a few things you must know before we begin. Know that to those of us who practice, this is a time for us to commune with the gods. It is a time of thanks and of sacrifice, and we take these sacred rituals very seriously.” It was a very subtle warning, but she was counting on the participants to use common sense when at a strange event hosted by strangers.

She glanced at Alfrun, then said, “This is Alfrun, Hjarrandi’s spiritual leader. She will be presiding over the haustblót today.” With the introduction made, Valkyrie stepped back and motioned Alfrun forward with a deferent bow. “Alfrun, the gathering is yours.”

""

The main reason he appeared was because of the offer of free food, he’d heard in passing of the festival, and a market afterwards. He’d made the assumption he might hear word of Eris if he attended as well. He didn’t get his hopes up, but the rust marked wolf made an appearance. He wasn’t sure that he recognized anyone, and he kept his distance for now. His deep ruby gaze was alert as his ears swiveled to take in all the sounds around him. He couldn’t relax again until he found Eris.

His attention was on the chocolatey female as she spoke up and grabbed the attention of the group. She had a look in her eye that he wasn’t completely fond of, but he kept his expression blank like his shadow taught him.

His companions had informed him about a festival happening in the South during their scouting beyond pack lands. Of course, out of curiosity, he was inclined to go. The description of the host matched someone he had met a while back, the one he had given the baby monkey to in exchange for Ignis' brash flying companion. He had informed his pack where he was going and invited along whoever wished to go. With Ignis tailing him, they made their way down South until they reached the forest. Ahead, he could see the glow of fire getting closer, and it was curious to him. He hadn't seen a fire that big for a long time, much less one that was built on purpose. Striding in among those already gathered, crimson gaze found the stallion bound on the stone and he listened as Valkyrie gave her speech. It seemed he had gotten there just in time, and he was eager to see what this...Blot...held. So far, it seemed to be a religious festival. He didn't mind, of course. He had been religious at one point many years ago, and though he didn't follow any one religion at the moment, he knew about the customs of some of the viking people. The pack he ran with many years ago had similar customs, but not quite like this. He knew about Valhalla and some of their lore thanks to Winter, but beyond that he was clueless. He would be respectful of this event, and so he seated himself with companions on either side of him and waited for things to start. speech action

"Talk" Walk The young crimson male strode behind his uncle as they headed to the festival in the South. He had never been to a festival before and was excited to attend his first one. His wolverine companion walked alongside him while his palm cockatoo flew above to keep an eye on things. The journey had been easy, and as they reached the forest he could see the glow of fire between the trees. Quietly, he followed his uncle to the gathering and looked around at what he saw. His gaze fell on the strangely docile horse that was tied up and lying on some stone, and he wondered if it had given up its will to fight. What were they going to do with it? Was that the going to be for the feast? He felt kind of bad that such a strong and usually majestic creature might be killed, but...wolves killed for food all the time. This would be no different...right? He sat on the opposite side of one of his uncle's companions with his wolverine on his left and his bird in the trees behind them. He listened intently to Valkyrie's speech, gaze turning then to find the one who she named Alfrun.

It was time.

It'd been a long while since Eyrún had participated in a blót and she was thrilled Valkyrie was choosing to carry on a tradition so important to her. Generally they were attended by family members and group members, but finding stragglers creeping in to see what was going on was never unusual. Back in their homelands, though, most knew what this sort of event was all about.. here, she was pretty sure few would know, which made her feel simply elated. Spreading the word of her gods and the culture of her people was something she was always eager to do, and as soon as the blót began her mood was soaring as high as the sky.

She couldn't help but wonder if the sacrifice portion of the event would be as well-received by these wolves as it was by her own. Just how pleased would their gods be with them if they saw just how many wolves were here? Her eyes widened as she approached - a fair bit later than she'd been hoping, but she'd been making some preparations of her own. By the time she arrived the sun had already begun to sink below the horizon - the sight was awe-inspiring, from the orange and pinks that spread over the rapidly darkening sky to the fire that had begun to burn and signal the beginning of the blót.

A dreamy sigh fell from her lips, her attention shifting to her fellow band-mates. Most of them were already here, which pleased her, and after a moment of consideration she directed her attention to Dagfinn and Dutch. A wry grin touched her lips as she sauntered over to the two of them, winking as she nudged Dutch and slid in beside her. "Mind if I.. sample some of your goods, Dag?" She inquired, overly suggestively, as she leaned in to Dag.

But she didn't have time to get an answer before Valkyrie was speaking, explaining in vague terms why they were here. The grin slid off her face, replaced by a far more serious expression as she fell silent and directed her attention to Alfrun, who was next to speak. Oh, this was going to be fun..