Artorias had announced some changes to the Hallows' pack structure. New ranks had been opened up to allow for more movement of his wolves within their skillsets and passions, new opportunities to learn and grown and challenge themselves. It had also opened some options for his most skilled wolves to play a more critical role within the pack's infrastructure when it came to the defense and inter-pack affairs of the Hallows. One such rank that offered these greater responsibilities and prestige was the Commander rank. Artorias had already heard rumors of interest disseminating through the warriors' ranks. Now it was the time to see who would step up and claim the title.

The Aegis had cleared out the largest of their sparring rings just outside the castle walls. The dirt had been tilled and patted flat and smooth, creating an unmarred surface for combatants to engage on. It was a fighters' dream arena. The Aegis himself stood in the center of the ring at dawn, adorned in his armor with Embershard strapped across his back. Today would be a day for the testing of mettle. Tipping his muzzle to the clear spring sky, Artorias called for any who wished to apply themselves for the rank of Commander. Depending on how many showed up, he would either face a sole challenger or play judge to a melee of those worthy of the rank. Curiosity roused the alpha's excitement; which of his accomplished Vanguards or Knights would heed his call to pick up the gauntlet?

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

Mercury had spent so much of his life working towards the good of the pack. Bettering himself and honing his skills in a way that worked for the people he was with. First, that had been his families packs. Then Wren. He made no exception since joining the Hallows. Giving lessons in fighting, and integrating himself into the pack. His respect for Artorias had only solidified the longer he spent in the Hallows, and his desire to do the best he could for the pack had grown.

At the announcement of a new rank, Mercury's interest had been piqued. Training and security were two areas he had become quite strong in. When the call came for him to prove himself, he strapped on his bracers and gathered his companions. Making his way to the training area and the Aeges within. He nodded his head to his friend, a partial smile on his lips. “I’ll take the challenge.”

"Speech"

Art had added a few more ranks to the Hallows' roster, one being the rank of Commander. Avantika knew as soon as she heard about it that she had to at least try to achieve the coveted position. It made sense for it to be her, really. She knew this pack like the back of her paw and doubted anyone could be as devoted as she was to it. Yes, she'd stumbled, but she was better now and ready to put her heart and soul into the Hallows again, not just her empty and exhausted body as she had before. She'd helped train some of the knights, when they actually bothered to show up for it, at least, and she had been a proven Vanguard for a long time now. Art knew her credentials. He would not deny her this.

But of course, it was inevitable that someone else would want to compete for the high rank. A knight, Mercury, who Avantika didn't know very well, stood in the arena with Art. Avantika nodded to him respectfully, before turning to her Aegis with a smile. "I would also like to put myself forward."

"Speech"

Rudyard had checked with Gwyn, grateful to know she’d watch over Fern and his children so that the two could go together to watch the challenge for the commander rank take place.  Since the pups had been born they had spent considerably more time in their room, watching over their kids.  It was amazing how fast they grew.  It felt like they had been born yesterday but they were clearly growing.

It was good to step out with Fern and make his way with her to the sparring ring where this challenge was to take place.  The motley wolf found a good space outside of the ring where he could sit and watch the event.  A smile of contentment was on his face though as he looked about it formed into a grin, curious of how things would work out.  Rudyard and Fern had been away when Mercury joined and he’d have to be sure to meet with the wolf and get to know him later.

Out loud Rudy didn’t express his personal interests in the matter but silently he cheered on his sister.  Would anyone else show up as a competitor or would it be just the two of them?  Rudyard glanced about to see if anyone else was coming who looked prepared to fight.  After the glance he turned his head to Fern, giving her a little lick behind the ear.  It was wonderful watching his children but it was also wonderful sitting here with Fern waiting on a challenge to start.

"Speech"

The call was an interesting one, the first open rank challenge Zephyr had seen in his young life thus far. He had no interest in joining the challenge himself (even though his showing versus his father had proved that he could probably take both combatants with one talon tied behind his back) but was eager to attend as a spectator regardless. Circling down from his tower-top balcony, the massive avian did two circles overhead atop the gathered wolves before lighting down beside his uncle and aunt, an eager grin upon his beak.

The two who had thus far arrived to compete were both capable warriors, though he knew much less of the greyscale newcomer to the Hallows. Zephyr chose no favorites, deciding simply to root both wolves on and to cheer the winner regardless. The potential match was too exciting to worry about who actually deserved or did not deserve the rank. His vulture-like neck craned to survey the space around Fern and Rudy. "Where're the puppies?" Zeph asked. Unexpectedly, the raptor had found he loved puppies... and hadn't yet had the opportunity to meet the newest litter. Maybe they were too young to watch the Hallows' knight and vanguard bleed each other for a new rank.

"Zephyr"

Artorias wasn't left waiting long before the first wolf arrived. The dark form of Mercury, geared up and armed for bear, strode with purpose and confidence into the sparring ring—his first challenger. The Aegis greeted his Knight with a half smile and a nod of acknowledgement. Then, shortly behind, came the wolf he had expected to see. Art offered Avantika a knowing smile, tipped his head in recognition to his sister, then waited for any others to step forth. A small crowd of Hallowed wolves gathered to watch the spectacle and find out who would become the pack's first Commander, but none stepped forth to add their name to the challenge. Artorias glanced to Rudyard, one of the only two others he expected might apply, and when his mottled brother didn't enter the arena nor did his mate show up, he took it as their declination for the rank.

With no others to wait on, Artorias addressed the crowd and the applicants. "Hallowed wolves, today we will name our first Commander of the Hallows. This rank, a title of strength, prowess, and valor, carries with it a great importance and responsibility to ensure the safety and continued strength of our pack. I have great expectations for whoever claims this position." Artorias looked between Avantika and Mercury. "Warriors, know that regardless of the outcome, I am proud of both of you for stepping up and seizing your moment. This challenge will put your mettle as a warrior to the test against one another. This is your chance to demonstrate your skills. Fight with courage and honor, and fight for dominance only. While I will give consideration to the victor, I will be considering all factors in my decision."

With his instructions for the fight given, Artorias dipped his head to his Vanguard and Knight respectively. "If either of you have anything you'd like to say before the trial begins, state your peace now. When you are ready, take your positions and begin. Good luck to you, Avantika Carpathius and Mercury Ermís." The Aegis would give both wolves their opportunity to speak if they wanted, and then once they had both taken their starting places, he stepped out of the arena and sat on his haunches, keen amber eyes studying both of his wolves intently and with purpose.

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

Mercury stood tall, listening as Artorias spoke his piece. He knew that he was putting himself forward for a lot of hard work if he succeeded, but he owed that to the pack, and to Artorias. Without which, he would have nothing now. He had committed to making this place his home, and would find a way to give back whatever the pack needed.

Mercury wished he knew a little more about his opponent, and regardless of the outcome intended to seek out Avantika afterwards to learn a little more about the wolf. As Artorias announced the start of the fight, Mercury dipped his head politely towards his opponent. He gave a moment to see if Avantika would like to take the offered chance to speak, and then began.

Mercury started forward, His companions flanking either side of him, working silently in concert as they fell into well-rehearsed positions. Mercury was marginally taller than Avantika with the greater body mass that came with it. For this reason, he aimed his charge in an attempt to collide his right shoulder to the right shoulder of the other wolf. With the aim of bringing them into close-quarters fighting.

Mercury vs Avantika for Dominance
Round 1/?
Age: Over 1
Size: Dire wolf
Build: Medium
Offensive Battle Accessory: Creepy Contact Lenses
Defensive Battle Accessory: Leather bracers
Companion 1: Cormorant, Female - Flying
Companion 2: Silver Fox, Male - Battle - Boosted
*Companion 3: Silver Fox, Female - Battle
Mutation 1: Cat claws - Offensive
Mutation 2: Thicker fur - Defensive
Skills: Master Fighter & Master Intellectual
Specialty: Weaponsmaster

"Speech"

A few others approached, but did not enter the arena. She would have no more than one opponent to fight, then. That certainly made this simpler. Avantika's eyes caught on Rudy, who'd sat down to watch. It was nice to know that there was at least one watching that she could trust to root for her. He was a father now, but sometimes he still seemed like the feisty little boy who'd become her first friend. When Art began a speech, talking about the responsibilities and honor of the new rank, Avantika listened with the appearance of attentiveness, but to be honest, her mind was fixed on the fight ahead. Her heart was beating fast already. She wanted to just get into it already so she could prove her skills.

Finally, he concluded. Avantika did not speak, only nodding with an air of solemnity she had not had before, and neither did Mercury. She echoed her opponent's head dip and then got into her defensive position. Her birds circled closer above the two of them, and Avantika felt their warm confidence send waves of energy and strength into her every muscle. They weren't fighters, but their sharp eyes above had proven invaluable in many a battle.

Mercury charged quickly, and Avantika was not able to dodge completely in time. She let the big wolf slam into her shoulder, grunting against the pain that would surely bruise later, but would attempt to use the close quarters to retaliate by getting her teeth to grab the fur at the back of his neck, just to show that she could. If that was accomplished, she would then immediately let go and try to scurry back and to the side away from him, twisting so she was still facing him head-on. Distance, she had decided after the strength of his shoulder hit, would be her key strategy in this fight.

Avantika vs Mercury for Dominance
Round 1/2
Age: Over 1 year
Size: Large
Build: Medium
Defensive Battle Accessory: https://www.ardently.org/showthread.php?tid=35204
Companion 1: Sharp-shinned hawk, Female - Flying
Companion 2: Black-thighed falconet, Male - Flying
Skills: Master Fighter & Master Intellectual
Specialty: Tactician

"Speech"

Mercury's initial charge made contact, and he hit the smaller wolf's shoulder with a soft grunt as he rebalanced himself. His momentum might have halted suddenly against her, but his two fox companions continued on. One attempted to duck under Avantika. Aiming to distract and confuse more than harm. As for Solor, his oldest friend remained on his shoulders. Giving him an extra set of eyes on the battlefield.

As his opponent reached over to grab a clump of fur, he allowed her to do so. And was surprised when she immediately released her hold. As she attempted to scurry away from him, he lashed out. Attempting to swipe a claws paw into one of her forepaws to slow her retreat. Lurching forward as he did so in an attempt to grab a hold of her scruff. He fought to unbalance and gain control of the fight more than to harm.

Mercury vs Avantika for Dominance
Round 2/2
Age: Over 1
Size: Dire wolf
Build: Medium
Offensive Battle Accessory: Creepy Contact Lenses
Defensive Battle Accessory: Leather bracers
Companion 1: Cormorant, Female - Flying
Companion 2: Silver Fox, Male - Battle - Boosted
*Companion 3: Silver Fox, Female - Battle
Mutation 1: Cat claws - Offensive
Mutation 2: Thicker fur - Defensive
Skills: Master Fighter & Master Intellectual
Specialty: Weaponsmaster

"Speech"

While she knew she wasn't the intended audience to her father's call, she couldn't help but relent to the curiosity that enticed her to answer it. Talyssa scampered out the main entrance of the castle, and out beyond the gardens to where she thought it had originated from. When she rounded the corner, her eyes immediately found the shrouded cobalt form of Artorias- her pale blue gaze immediately flashing with recognition and affection. But it was clear that he was in the middle of an address and she didn't want to interrupt him. Talyssa hovered near some shrubs on the sidelines by herself, as she roved the familiar faces that had gathered already. Talyssa recognized Zephyr with uncle Rudy, and aunt Tika in the ring, but illuminated once more when she noticed the shadowed form of her friend Mercury.

While she wasn't entirely sure of what was occurring, she did understand that it was a challenge- a fight to demonstrate skills. Her excitement pulsed from within, but she was so conflicted. She wanted Mercury to win! But she also didn't want aunt Tika to lose. She wished that there was an outcome that they both could win, but didn't know if that was a possibility. Towards the end of his speech, her ears flicked as Daddy wished both competitors good luck. And with both combatants offering a nod of respect before their first moves, they clashed.

It was a flurry of movement, difficult for her to keep things straight. Between the battle of the two adults, and the movement of companions in the tightly shared space, Talyssa couldn't tell if there was an obvious winner or not ... but she was certainly leaning forward out of anticipation of her father's declaration.

As Avantika braced against Mercury, she was luckily able to keep her footing and also managed to make her quick attack. She didn't bite hard, and released him about as soon as her teeth met fur. But as she attempted to move backwards away from her opponent once more, his clawed paw swiped against one of her own paws. She stumbled a bit, but was able to duck down and to her left, away from the ensuing grab of his jaws at her scruff.

She'd keep moving to her left then, hopefully keeping a few feet between herself and the other challenger, before suddenly dashing in to attempt to nip lightly at the curve on the side of his neck where it met the top of his shoulder.

Avantika vs Mercury for Dominance
Round 2/2
Age: Over 1 year
Size: Large
Build: Medium
Defensive Battle Accessory: https://www.ardently.org/showthread.php?tid=35204
Companion 1: Sharp-shinned hawk, Female - Flying
Companion 2: Black-thighed falconet, Male - Flying
Skills: Master Fighter & Master Intellectual
Specialty: Tactician

"Speech"

And the winner is...

AVANTIKA

MERCURY must give up by submitting, fleeing or passing out. Totals: Mercury: Attack Roll: 9 Defense Roll: 56 Agility Roll: 54 Perception Roll: 86 Total: 205 Attack[9] + 75% Bonus[6.75]: 15.75 Defense[56] + 20% Bonus[11.20]: 67.20 Agility[54] + 0% Bonus[0.00]: 54.00 Perception[86] + 45% Bonus[38.70]: 124.70 Total[261.65] + 25% Bonus[65.41]: 327.06 Avantika: Attack Roll: 31 Defense Roll: 39 Agility Roll: 96 Perception Roll: 76 Total: 242 Attack[31] + 5% Bonus[1.55]: 32.55 Defense[39] + 15% Bonus[5.85]: 44.85 Agility[96] + 0% Bonus[0.00]: 96.00 Perception[76] + 75% Bonus[57.00]: 133.00 Total[306.40] + 25% Bonus[76.60]: 383.00

The fighting between his two prospective warriors was intense, yet honorable. From the sidelines, Artorias watched with steely eyes as he studied the movements of both combatants, observing the methods and mannerisms of the two fighters as they clashed and collided. Despite the size difference between the two, Avantika fought as ferociously as any impassioned warrior, and Mercury likewise did not show his opponent any underestimation. Both respected the other and took the challenge seriously, and Artorias knew this fight would be a close call between the two seasoned fighters. At some point during the fighting, Artorias took notice of the audience, of his family come to offer their support to whomever their new Commander might be. The Aegis' stoic expression softened when he glimpsed his small daughter amongst the group, beckoning her over with a wave of a paw to come sit by him to get a better view of the spectacle. She looked like she was practically vibrating with excitement, and he would always encourage his child's curiosity.

After some time, Avantika managed to get in close and dodge a grapple from Mercury, giving her the opening she needed to get her fangs in at his neck. "Cease combat! I've seen enough," Artorias bellowed above the sounds of fighting, rising to step into the arena towards his two wolves. "Avantika, Mercury, you both have exhibited exemplary skills and prowess today. You should both be extremely proud. you stepped forward to accept the challenge and faced it nobly and with courage." Truly, the Aegis was so proud of both wolves, and it showed in the way his fire-blazoned eyes shone as he looked between them. But there could only be one Commander, and a winner had to be named. "After careful consideration and what I've observed, I'm proud to name Avantika as the Hallows' first Commander! With this new rise in rank, I have great expectations for you, and you will need honor, diligence, and balance." Artorias placed a gentle emphasis on "balance", his gaze lingering on Tika's. He was putting all of his faith into her to uphold the protection of the pack—that included herself as well, and caring for her own wellbeing.

Artorias' gaze shifted to Mercury next, fixing the dark-coated wolf with a proud smile. "Mercury, although you have not been with us long, you have truly shown beyond a doubt what the Hallows means to you. You've made this your home, accepted us as your kin, and you always strive to help improve everything you involve yourself in. This loyalty is exactly the kind of trait that makes our greatest Knights into even better Vanguard. I would be honored if you became our next Vanguard." Offering the rank of Vanguard to Mercury was as much a show of trust in the man as it was a reward for his skills and efforts. The Vanguard were the personal guard of his family—a family that now included five small, squishy puppies. Only those he trusted the most were ever asked to take on such a task, and Artorias hoped that in spite of not getting the rank he may have desired today, he would accept the prestigious rank at his family's side until the day came where he could challenge for Commander again.

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

The moment he felt her fangs about his neck, he knew he had lost. Artoria’s voice cut through the combat, and with reluctance he relaxed his stance. He had been given his shot, and the time had passed. He gave in gracefully, bowing his head to his opponent. “You fought well” he said softly, as he backed away and turned his attention to Artorias.

It rankled to have lost, sitting sourly in his gut. He wanted to give his all, to rise and prove himself. To be someone to the Hallows. Losing was never easy, but he was forced to accept it. The Aegis’s words were gentle, and the consultation price was far nicer than he would have expected. It was a role that suited him well, and he already had great love for the Aegis’s family, his new little children. “I accept the position gladly, Artorias, you honour me” He said


"Speech"

As soon as Avantika succeeded in her attack, Art's voice rang out to tell them to cease fighting. She retreated instantly, and returned Mercury's words with an equally soft, "You as well," before turning her full attention to her Aegis as he prepared to announce who the Hallows' first Commander would be. For a moment, she was afraid it wouldn't be her. While she had confidence in her fighting skills, that was far from the only important factor in the decision for such a high rank. Perhaps he thought she wasn't ready for more responsibility. It hadn't been so long, really, since he had met her in the courtyard and told her that he didn't need a Vanguard who was only a slave to her work, since her terrified, catastrophizing mind had feared that he might take away her rank or even exile her for the neglect she'd exhibited for the very wolves she loved so much, and she didn't know if he'd believe that she'd truly changed since then. Heck, she didn't even know if she'd changed.

But her nightmare was cut short as he continued. 'I'm proud to name Avantika as the Hallows' first Commander!' She bowed her head, the warmth of his pride curling into her stomach and expanding to thicken in her throat. She didn't know what to say, and neither could she hold back her grin. She couldn't even tease him in response to his emphasis on telling her to think of balance. She was... just happy. "Thank you," she said sincerely, hoping he knew that her gratitude was for so much more than some words of praise and a new title.

Mercury was then made Vanguard, which made sense. While she didn't know him well, she knew that he was skilled enough to put up one hell of a good fight, and even the act of challenging for the rank showed he had ambition and a drive to do his work well. She would like to speak to him more later. Or now, even, if it pleased him to reach out. She would linger until the crowd left. Her eyes went straight to Rudy, though, again, she would wait for him to come to her. She didn't want to act like a braggart.

"Speech"