Speech // thought

It had been long enough, he had hoped to speak with as many members as he could before he called the pack together. But alas some of the members were a bit harder to find. So an overarching call would be necessary to bring them all in at once. If some members did not appear here today and heed his call, then he would have to regrettably release them from the ranks, declining their number and their strength.

He climbed up the steps, supporting Haydee who was still slowly recovering from her illness, over the falls to reach the platform where Saga had last called the pack together. There had been misgivings then and there would be misgivings now. No one liked change, and the pack had endured many changes already. Perhaps though they could see his vision for them, a new hope, a new life.

He looked over the lands that had been his beloveds, then Saga's, and now they have allowed him to oversee it. He hoped to do well by it.

He lifted his voice over Lazuli Falls, Cattail Creek, and even beyond the borders to call all wolves of Ethne, Polaris, and even those of old Norad if they so choose. This was the call of their new alpha, a mandatory pack meeting.

He waited diligently for each member to appear.

When they had all gathered, he would nod politely to each in turn and wait for them to settle. The scene was something out of his memories except instead of gathering under the looming stalactites they were all under the open sky.

"Thank you all for coming. I know this has been confusing. I am Eltrys Valorin. Saga has passed the leadership of the pack to me and I intend to breathe new life into it. To make it a quiet refuge where ex-slaves can find healing and purpose. I do not intend to partake in many if any offensive raids and instead be a pylon of peace. The name Ethne was unfortunately soured in the mouths of others but I do not intend to hide, I intend for the pack to be reborn. The warriors we had and I cannot defend our borders alone. I cannot protect you and your kin with hardly any fighters to do so. So I must bring in a few more fresh bodies and inspire them to join us without them fearing the sins of the past. So, I intend to change the name again, to Vedia, meaning spirit of the forest or sanctuary. I don't intend to change anyone's way of life, beliefs, or way of being. I intend to protect the helpless and defend the defenseless as long as they are within our borders. I hope to inspire a new sect of Druids but that won't be forced upon anyone if they don't choose it. Besides this, not much should change in your day to day. I hope to give a chance to our Norad guests to join us if they so choose."

He let his words sink into the gathered throng. Letting them murmur to themselves, offer up questions if they choose, but he was not done. He would answer questions after.

"I will come to your questions in a moment. First, I welcome Lia into the pack! She is a healer warrior whom I have fought alongside. Second, while we may not raid others we must be prepared for raids against us! "Storms make trees grow deeper roots" will be our motto! Anyone who wishes to defend our borders and resources despite their fighting ability is welcome to join the defense. It is a fact of life here that I have come to recognize. But I will place one law that all of new Vedia will follow, we match the energy of our opponents unless lives are at stake, and we do not maim."

Good, now that was out of the way, he opened the floor for others to say their piece.

Mandatory Pack Meeting! Please post here before October 18!
The events of this thread are set before the pack raid

Speech // thought

Alexandrite padded quickly to the top of the falls. She had grown more reclusive and resistant to socializing as she grew but was grateful for Eltrys' help to teach her, and the kindness of her father.

She sat expectantly down for the meeting but kept her eyes down to the grass as the others entered. She lifted her gaze to Eltrys as he began and furrowed her brow. She had no clue what he was saying about not being Ethne anymore and changing the name of the pack again. But It didn't really bother her. What was this about Druids? That seemed the most interesting to her.

That was when she looked around the others, trying to gauge their reactions and responses.

At last, Eltrys would call a meeting. She had no regrets in passing the pack off to him. While it was quite an experience, it wasn't something she was ready for. She was just glad she figured that out sooner rather than later before she resented the fact. It was a major responsibility, after all, especially for a young bear to take on. Heeding his call, she made her way to the falls and wasn't surprised to find herself among one of the first to be there. She would support Eltrys in whatever ways she could, and as she and those who decided to show up got settled in, he would speak. She listened quietly as she nodded along, pleased that he was taking the pack towards a different approach. Perhaps not the approach she would've gone, but she respected it all the same. When he finished speaking, she offered a smile before addressing him. "I'm willing to help train and guide any who may need it. While leading a pack of wolves didn't suit me, being a guide and teacher, particularly in the art of fighting, does. And we must always be ready for lifes trials." "Speak"

Art & Code by Rex 2023
"Speech!"
Iki was for all intents and purposes not doing something that his dad would scold him for. No! Never! Okay so he was. But really the coop and candy hoard was always so easy to raid. His face was a mess from the yolks and sticky sweet candies when the call for everyone sounded. A tilt of his head, and a last snatch of a piece of candy and he was off. His legs not suited for running and body much too heavy to run it was a comfortable trot.

He arrived and sat in his spot, sucking on his candy. Ears turned forward as he listened . Not all of it interested him nor was the fresh adult comprehending everything but he was sure someone would later explain. He spat his candy out into his paw to hold while he had a question. "Hi miss Lia! But um Mister Eltrys, Does this mean I can have friends again? I miss making new friends.... And um, what's a druid?" He tilted his head before returning the half eaten candy to his mouth.

Code © Skelle/Witchdogtor DO NOT USE WITHOUT PERMISSION

Lucette still wasn’t entirely sure where she and Bae-Syl would fall in the new pack, but she had given Eltrys her word that she would at least try. If those affected the worst by the events that had happened over the past few seasons were to heal, they needed to be together. She wanted to talk to him about reaching out to her mother too, though Lucette hadn’t the slightest clue where Bellamy had gone. She wanted to make sure that Alex returned, too. They had already lost Dorian, Corbin, and Lyonesse… her small family was dwindling more and more. It made her heart ache. Would they still have all been here if their father was alive? Or was growing apart inevitable in the end…?

She arrived, sitting down with her tail curled around her paws. Just like he had shared with her. Eltrys spoke of what he intended to make the pack. Her gaze shifted to Beauregard, who had arrived as well on behalf of Norad. From what she had noticed, many of their guests from the pack had dispersed… As far as she knew it was just Beauregard and his two daughters that were still hanging around, and the girls had seemed wayward. Given his injury, she wasn’t keen on the idea of him potentially leaving… but…

Her gaze flicked back to Eltrys, his ears lowered back toward her head quietly. She was waiting for Bae, to see what he had to say on the matter.

"Speech!"

Beauregard’s wounds had been properly cleaned by Lucette, though she had urged him to rest as much as he could while his leg healed from the break. He had seen his daughters Bellatrix and Imogen, and worried their brother Nolan had become reclusive after all that had happened. He hadn’t noticed Tan’s scent, and his heart ached for his mates. He prayed that they would be alright… There was much he needed to tend to, and things that he would likely need to do before his healing was completed. He was sure Lucette wouldn’t like it, but Beauregard had made his decision in following Trixy when she made her next challenge for a pack. His daughter was passionate about her choice and he wanted to support her. He would listen to Eltrys, approving quietly of the changes to the pack he once called their allies. With the floor open he lifted his muzzle, addressing the new Archdruid. “Through the seasons and name changes, this pack has been allies to my family. There are good memories here,” He began. “I am appreciative for your aid, though as more and more of my former pack’s scents fade, I realize that this pack, Veida, is not where our hearts lie. I know one of my daughters intends to raise a pack for us once more. I can only hope that if and when that happens our relations remain positive.” Beauregard shook his head, a small smile on his muzzle. “I am going to follow her, and give the option for any of my family I can find to do the same. But I feel it is time for Norad to try and move on and begin again.” "Speech," 'Thought.'

This would be the first pack meeting called since Lia had joined, and potentially the first since Eltrys had taken over leadership. She trotted to the falls to support her friend and new alpha, and hear what he had to say. Once everyone was assembled, he began. From the first moment he spoke, she knew her guess had been correct.

She startled in surprise when her name was mentioned, and blinked. A little like a startled owl as she scanned the wolves around her, wondering how many eyes might fall upon her. She was one of the many now, no longer a lone wolf. So perhaps she would need to get accustomed to social things such as this. She nodded her head to any that might have looked her way.

"Speech"

Code © Skelle/Witchdogtor DO NOT USE WITHOUT PERMISSION

The call for a meeting was not unexpected for Bae-Syl. His form rising from where he laid near the falls, where he had been sunning his sore muscles and dozing. He was starting to get older and would soon be five, so those bones and his age were starting to feel every old injury. A stretch and yawn as he turned and began walking.

It seemed he made it in time to hear most of the talk but where were most of his children? They'd yet to arrive and he looked around with narrowed eyes for them. Ikuchi's questions had a snort coming from him. His son could be so clueless sometimes. He kept it to himself though and moved to seat himself behind Lucy. His chin coming to rest on top of her head, between her ears. A sigh coming from him as he listened to the entire spiel. Changing name, yada yada, he got the jist. No maims in raids unless a maim was directed at them. Matching opponents energy. He could understand but also a part of him was of the mind he was likely to break that if someone came knocking with intent to harm Lucy or his kids.

His eyes stayed on Eltrys and waited for his chance. "Many of you know the drill, you need training in fighting, come find me. If you can't find me tell Lucy here and I will come find you. I also expect everyone even if you are not a fighter to still know self defense. If you need a refresher on it we can spar or I can give you lessons. Also I wish you and yours the best Beauregard if you need anything I owe you a lot don't be afraid to ask for me." If it wasn't for the man he wasn't sure Lucy would be alive or unharmed. He owed the man everything. He stayed as he was there though to wait for more from Eltrys or from anyone else.

"Speech!"

The woman was quieter but she was still about. Still studying her poisons and plants. She heard the call and stepped from her den with a lift to a brow. Well that was new. A chuckle and she was moving. Jack on her heel.

As she arrived she could smell alot, but didn't care much. She found a spot and settled herself, pulling Jack to her so he was settled under her. Her ears pricked as she listened for the meeting to start. When Eltrys spoke finally she sat silent. She had nothing to add or opinions to give. A flick of her ear was her only visual response. She considered it all, but stayed silent. Blind eyes stayed focused on the place she had heard Eltys and then her Aunt's voices. Her father and brother was of no consequence to her. She was aware of how to defend herself if she needed. Though she didn't need, that's what she had Gavaroche and Jericho for. If she wanted someone to test her herbs on then she had Ikuchi. She would wait for the meeting to end though before she said anything. She had a new concoction for Iki to try.

"Speech!"
Art & Code by Rex 2023

Life sometimes would lead them astray. Fenix always struggled after what had happened over a year ago. He loved his daughter, and he also loved his son. However he knew copper had been growing more and more estranged to the family. It seemed the seed that his mother had planted in him just didn’t go away. He tried to put it out of his mind. This pack had changed so much since he’d been invited. He’d once been its deputy. He had grandeur to make a pack and the dream slowly died and faded just like the memory of his daughter viper had after her death. Depression was a sickening hold on him.

He showed though. Looking regular as regular could be. His weight was back and his coat clean, but the sad look in his expression just never seemed to fade. Fenix crawled to the group and spotted his daughter. He sought out her and sat next to the girl. My they grew fast. But anxiety gripped him, his last daughter had died just after or before her first year birthday. He didn’t want to lose anything else. Fenix smiled at Alex and settled in for the meeting.

Riv still hadn’t gotten anything done. Yet he was in chipper spirits, he was ready to go. The call to the meeting had him wondering what the hell was going on. So much had changed since he was little when he’d washed up on these shores. While he’d never found his siblings, the memory of such a long time ago was beginning to fade. He had to start living for himself! He cantered towards the meeting spot his long tail sitting high in the air with the tip flicking back and forth. He didn’t sit next to anyone in particular.

Finding a good spot to settle down. He sat and curled his tail around his forepaws letting the fluffy end sit I the middle of his chest almost like a comfort. So what exciting news now? Not that he had much to share himself. Life had been pretty boring to him as of late and he was tired of feeling like he was lazy. Riv perked his ears forward and waited for the meeting to start.

He had tried to make it a bit obvious. He didn’t want to be here anymore. These wolves were so foreign to him and as he grew copper wanted more and more isolation on his front. Every time he saw his sister he wanted to just… see what would happen if he pushed her face into the ground and told her how worthless she was. Alas that was "unacceptable" and his father had the same things to say. Well then why had his mother lived such a freeing life. When had she died what, six years old? That didn’t seem like too bad of a run for fun.

Copper yawned boredom, finding a space as far from the others as he could but still within earshot. A storm was brewing in this one’s mind and it may not be something his fellows wanted to deal with. Copper had rage built up inside of him, nasty thoughts swirling around in his brain. Bloodshed, he wanted that over all else. Snorting he sighed and settled back, yeah, he didn’t want to be here.

Nova arrived with her usual calm expression, unsure of what she will find upon her arrival for who was doing it wasn't that familiar to her. Eyes of purple looked over those who had arrived before her, including her parents and a few siblings. Sighing, Nova moved to sit near her father yet she had nothing to say, words weren't needed when she always had the intention of fighting on Raids in the defense of their lands, no one had to ask her to do what she already decided to do even when she was a yearling.

Though this constant change of leadership wasn't of her like, making it feel as if their home lacked a more solid leadership. The constant change could make others think they were week or lacked consistency. Yet for this time she kept her opinions to herself.

"speech"

code by Cloudy

The trek up to the falls was trying for Haydée but, with Eltrys’s support, the weak woman is able to make to the meeting area. With a gentle kiss to the earthen man’s cheek, she takes a seat, smiling brightly at him as she waits for the rest of the pack to show. His voice lifts, calling to them to come and join together for an important meeting and she stares lovingly up at him, proud to know him. Tail slowly swishes across the ground as she thinks of the bright future that lays ahead for not only Vedia, but them as a couple.

Her smile grows as the others filter in but Haydée’s gaze never leaves Eltrys’s face, emerald eyes bright with excitement and hope for the days and months ahead. Once everyone has gathered, the meeting kicks off and her ears swivel forward to catch every word that is offered and dips her head silent agreement to his plans. Green eyes track out over the crowd, turning to Saga as she speaks and offers her sister a warm, encouraging smile. There is no shame, in her mind, in admitting that she had needed help and there is no judgement toward the polar bear in those loving emerald eyes.

Next to speak was Ikuchi and she chuckles warmly at her nephew’s words, offering him a wink before her gaze turns to Lucette, noting her sister’s body language and resolving to set aside time to talk with her when she can. Beauregard’s next to speak and she gives her attention to him, a sad, knowing smile crossing her features as she dips her head understanding. Bae-Syl speaks and she nods, offering him a warm smile as she thinks of how grateful she is for his continued support.

Finally, the area falls silent and Haydée takes the opportunity to stand, drawing the attention to her thinner but determined form. Her voice is raw from the coughing fits she had endured but the thread of calm authority can still be found in her words, “I know we have all been through so much lately and I am grateful to you all for enduring these trying times, together. Saga did her best and I am thankful that she stepped up to lead after everything that had happened because I needed time to figure out things for myself. They say adversity breeds resilience and I have watched not only myself, but everyone here, grow.”

Pausing to catch her breath, she offers a warm smile as she continues, “A name does not make a pack, it is the wolves that make it. No matter what we go by, I know that we will face future as a united front.” Green eyes turn to Eltrys as she offers him a genuine smile and Haydée says, “Thank you Eltrys, for honoring what came before and moving us into the future. I will help in any way I can.” A dip of her head is offered before she settles back onto the ground, panting from the exertion that talking had caused her but radiating pride for everyone gathered.


"Haydée Kedieo"

Change was brewing once again in the pack and Jericho finds himself uncertain of the future. Tension seemed to be building and he was unclear why and that has left him feeling anxious and restless. His paws needed to move, to get out into the world and cover ground so he was just outside of pack lands, investigating the grapevines that lay beyond when the call for a meeting, finds him and he sighs at the fact that it not Saga who is issuing the summons.

Quickly, he treks up through the lands and up to the meeting area, arriving as one of the last few wolves and he smiles sheepishly at the man on the platform. Settling himself in the meeting area, he listens intently to Eltrys as he lays out the plans for the future of… Vedia. Uncertainty, flashes across his features but he remains quiet, listening to everyone that speaks after him while looking to his parents to gauge their reaction.

Change is difficult for him and has been since the death of his brother while he had been out raiding but Jericho resolves to try and keep an open mind in the days ahead. With a small smile to his mother, the young man remains silent but tries to show his quiet support to the new Archdruid.


"Jericho Agatsuma-Kedieo"

Souzan was late, late as always. She had been too inmersed in her studied that she had missed the first set of calls, in her rush to as good as the rest she started a campaign of breaking her back and risking her mental health in order to learn everything she should already know by now, feeling left behind. A sensation that was starting to consume her, making her forget the many advice her parents had given her, of she being just as valuable as the rest, that her learning speed didn't mean anything. Yet the idea of not being useful, of becoming a burden was too much for her to bare. Finally she arrived, looking at the rest with worry hopping they wouldn't be too mad for her tardiness. Quietly she took seat by Jeriko's side. ""

Art and Code by Cloudy

It seemed that he was among the last to arrive. Gavroche sat at the edge of the gathering quietly. He was watching, listening… There were so many changes in the pack. But it wasn't so much the changes that concerned him as how his family was all doing. Each of them had been handling things differently, and he knew it had been especially hard for his aunts, mom, and grandmother. Bellamy’s absence was noticed by the winged boy who looked around sadly. His uncle Alex hadn't come back yet… and his uncles Corbin and Dorian had gone. When his aunt Hay spoke his gaze fell. If what made a pack then why were more of them leaving? Especially his grandmother… she had founded the pack to keep them safe. But who was keeping her safe? For now Gavroche remained quiet, feeling guilty. He hadn't exactly hung around as much as he should have either. He had to wonder… would he leave the pack one day too? Especially if Trixy got her own group together? "Speech," 'Thought.'

table coding by bunni ♥

Speech // thought

Watching each member file in with trepidation, some with boredom, others with some distaste, while others seemed accepting. Eltrys would scan the crowd and if he had not known, he knew now he would have his work cut out for him.

He nodded to Saga as she offered her services. He nodded to Beauregard as he mentioned that he would not be joining Vedia but following his daughter Trixy.

"I believe she's well prepared for that fight! I hold nothing against you and the folks of Norad. Know that the members of old Norad are always welcome to join our ranks if they so choose." Eltrys swayed his tail as he moved his attention then to Haydee and Bae as they said their piece. He turned back to the young Iki with his question of what are druids.

"I'm glad you asked Iki! Druids are well-trained knowledgeable folk, filled with exceptional wisdom, temperance, and leadership abilities. I'm hoping to build a conclave of powerful wise Druids. If any of you are interested in the idea of what it means to be a druid, I'd welcome the conversation. Now, I am very grateful for your attendance! Please feel free to call on me for your needs or guidance. Together we will weather every storm! Dismissed!"

He said as he brought the meeting to a close. His tail was high and joyful. He thought the meeting had gone rather well and brought himself down off the stage to be more approachable for any who wanted a more personal conversation with him.

--- End meeting! Feel free to open threads for any meetings with Eltrys! --