Milo was a well-seasoned traveler. He had been adventuring and roaming since the day he'd been thrown from his familial pack. He'd set foot places no wolf had been in years, decades—centuries, even! He was swift and agile and sure of foot. And he was lost. That's right, Milo the world venturer extraordinaire was lost. Not just a little bit lost either; the brute had absolutely no idea where he was or where he was supposed to be going. In retrospect, perhaps asking the wolf that told him Abaven was in the northeast to be a bit more specific in his cardinal directions would have been prudent, and yet he had been so excited to keep moving that he hadn't even stopped to consider that he had no idea where he was going specifically. Hmm, well this could be a bit of a problem. He hadn't even seen any other wolves for some time to ask them directions.

Frowning to himself while he followed the curve of the riverbank along the rushing white rapids, Milo resolved himself to just keep traveling northeast until he encountered something resembling a pack, or until he passed by another lupine to ask them for directions. Surely any wolf up around here would know of a prestigious learning institution tucked away to the northeastern part of the continent. All he had to do was keep walking until the solution to the problem presented itself. That was the logical approach! Whistling a jovial tune to himself while he trekked north up the western side of the river, the earthen-hued wolf did eventually come across some signs of life. Scent markers across the river tipped him off that he had stumbled upon a pack, and though he tried to remain pragmatic, a part of his overeager self couldn't held getting excited at the prospect that this could be the Abaven academy he'd heard about!

Milo picked up the pace, jogging along the riverbank while he tried to find a way to cross. Up ahead he found a spot where a series of flat river stones jutted up from the water, creating a stepping stone bridge across to the other shore. Were he not so sure of his footing, Milo would have second guessed himself. Instead, the brute hopped from stone to stone, taking his time in his crossing so as not to slip on the damp rocks. Once his paws made contact with the opposite shore and he could more distinctly smell the defined scent markers of a pack's border, Milo craned his neck back and called for someone. Perhaps he'd strike gold and even get an audience with the alpha! While he waited, Milo sat and began to prepare his sales pitch to whomever showed up. He waited the time out by examining the terrain; the flowing river, the lust grass, the woods surrounding him on all sides. It truly was lovely here! No wonder someone would want to establish a school out here!

They had just put the finishing touches on the classrooms, but the dormitories still needed a thorough cleaning before she could welcome students without any qualms. It taken about as long as she'd expected for construction to complete - which she was quite chuffed about. She hadn't ever considered herself an architect, but perhaps there was an untapped skill there. She was belly deep in dust and dirt and grime when she heard the call from deep inside the belly of the school. The sound cascaded in through the front entrance, winding through the halls until it found her. Theo blinked, her eyes bleary with dust. "Well..." she grumbled. It would be... not a great first impression, but she couldn't help it. While image was not something she prided herself on, courtesy and politeness were. And it was not polite to show up looking like a mole rat who'd just clambered out of their hole, but she'd have to make up for it with her stunning personality. Or something.

Theory shook off the dust as best as she could and strode out of the school, making her way towards the border. She kept her pace at a bright clip, hoping the breeze might take care of the looser bits of filth, even taking the long way around through the denser vegetation so the bushes and twigs might help brush out the dirt. By the time she arrived, she looked disheveled and filthy - but slightly less disheveled and filthy than she had been when she'd first heard the call. Breathlessly, she greeted the newcomer: "Hello, I'm the Headmistress. How can I help you?"

Milo hadn't been left to wait very long before the sound of someone approaching through the foliage was heard, grass shifting beneath paws and twigs and branches shifting as a weight pushed through them. He shifted his body about to present himself to the approacher—only to fall into a state of awe as a large dark-furred she-wolf emerged with keen eyes as blue as sapphires. Her coat was somewhat disheveled and messy—a sign of hard work put towards physical labor—and she seemed a little breathless, but still greeted him cordially and with repose. It took Milo a moment to snap himself out of his state of bewilderment with a shake of his head as she came closer, very nearly a half foot taller than he was, and greeted her with an enthusiastic smile. "Hello and good day, Miss Headmistress! I'm assuming Headmistress of Abaven Academy, correct? I've been looking for the school, you see, but there was some mix up with some directions I received from a rather gruff fellow, and... well..." Milo drifted off, realizing with a bout of sheepishness that he'd begun to ramble again. Earthen brown ears fell flat to his head and he cast an apologetic smile to the lady; he didn't mean to waste her time when she appeared to be so busy, so he'd cut right to the chase.

"Ahem, anyway... Allow me to introduce myself!" The eccentric wolf stood so he could take a sweeping bow with one paw held to his chest before the headmistress, his bag of trinkets and relics clattering slightly as it hung around his side and shifted. "My name is Milo Everec. I'm an archaeologist and anthropologist by trade and by passion! I've dedicated my life to the research and pursuit of study around the Lost Species. I'm something of an expert, and I wanted to come offer my knowledge and services to you and your school to help inspire young minds around ancient history and the creatures that came before us." Ah, but what sort of job interview would this be if he hadn't prepared a bit of a resume of his work to showcase? It was easy for anyone to claim to be a leading authority in a subject; it was another to demonstrate it!

Sitting back on his haunches, Milo gestured to Theory to wait for a moment while he swung his weathered messenger bag around to his front, setting it down on the grass with a clatter. He unfastened the buckles and opened it up, rummaging about for a bit before producing a long, silver, multi-pronged tool from within. "I've collected a number of relics from my time exploring the ruins of the Lost Species," he explained, offering her the relic to observe up close. "I believe this was some sort of close-range weapon the creatures used to use once upon a time. I found many of them in the ruins on the island to the south. Isn't it fascinating!" He then reached into his bag again and withdrew an old, tattered book, showing it off to the headmistress. "I stumbled upon some ancient texts in the ruins of a temple filled with these lexicons. I've slowly been teaching myself to understand the language the Lost Species used, and I think I could be close to a breakthrough! I'd love to be able to share these discoveries and knowledge with the students interested in the field—er, with your permission, of course!"

Stowing the book back in his bag, Milo looked up to the headmistress with a polite yet enthusiastic smile as his tail began to wag behind him. "So... did I get the job?" he asked with a flash of his teeth in a hopeful smile. It had been a while since he'd been a part of a collective like a pack, but given the nature of the school he'd heard of, he was eager to be a part of an institute of higher education.

"Yes, the one and the same!" she grinned, allowing him to get carried away with his words. It was a habit she'd learned to indulge in freely since Poem's children had been running circles around her legs. Usually if you let them go, they came back around on track - there! Just like this stranger did, reaching his point and saddling his ears sheepishly. Theo gestured for him to go on, as he clearly had more to say. There was a delightful spark in his eye that drew a corresponding smile to her own face. She still hadn't spoken another peep by the time he launched into his introduction.

Theory's eyes widened centimeter by centimeter as he went on, peering over his shiny bauble eagerly and then giving a small gasp of delight at the ancient tome. "Oh, oh!" Her voice was equal parts wistful and delighted. "Absolutely! We would love to have you come teach! You are welcome to choose a place inside or outside of the dormitories to den, and you can choose your classroom as soon as I can show you around the grounds!" She wanted to cheer! She wanted to sing! This was the kind of bastion of knowledge she had hoped to attract! "I haven't seen anything quite like what you've shown me. Please, do tell me more. I can be your first student!" Theo asserted, planting herself before him with a half-raised paw, excitable and ready to soak up more information.

All throughout his demonstration of his relics and knowledge, Milo was thrilled to see Theory's interest grow more and more profound as he introduced her to his passion in the world. It wasn't often that the vagabond scholar found others who shared his appreciation for ancient history, but when he did, it was like striking gold in a mine. So lost had he been in his exposé that he hadn't even realized he'd been rambling until Theory finally managed to get a word in edgewise, and when she spoke, Milo nearly felt his heart leap from excitement. She accepted him into her school! The widest smile Milo could ever recall wearing spread across his face as he stashed the Tome of Translation back into his bag, so giddy with excitement that he could dance and sing! Finally, finally he might have found where he belonged in the world! Take that, Mom and Dad!

"Yes, aces!" he exclaimed with an enthusiastic pump of a foreleg, hyping himself up for having nailed his interview so well. "Thank you, Headmistress Theory! I promise, you won't regret taking a chance on me! I've already got ideas and plans for how I can begin and... oh, oh yes! I suppose I'll need to know my way around before I get too far ahead of myself, won't I?" A lighthearted chuckle left the smaller wolf, hoping he wasn't coming across too unprofessional with his excitement—he was just so overjoyed at having a place and a purpose helping others discover their passions!

But then came the most unexpected part of their interaction: Theory wanted to learn even more! Milo blinked in surprise. She actually wanted him to keep talking?! Wow, this place really was something special! "But of course! Let's see... Oh! Let's start from the top!" Slipping his bag off from around his body, Milo set the bag on the ground with a thud. He opened the cover and began rifling through his belongings, pulling out a weathered and torn paper pamphlet, the colors starting to fade from the images, but still easily discernible. When unfolded, the pamphlet showed various pictures of the strange-looking creatures of the Lost Species, all smiling wide, exaggerated smiles as they were depicted in a variety of activities. Some were half bare on a beach or in the water, others sitting in groups in lavish buildings.

"So we don't truly know much about the Lost Species, since their language is so inaccessible to us, but we do have many, many depictions of them. They were tall, furless creatures that looked a lot like monkeys. They walked upright on two legs, and as far as I have seen, they had no claws, talons, fangs, or other types of weapons to defend themselves, which is likely how they all went extinct." Milo pointed out the picture of the group of humans to Theory. "The Lost Species lived in pack-like communities, like us wolves do. They built the ruins we see today as a form of shelter or communal gathering, then marked important places with strange runes and symbols. I've seen massive buildings all bearing red crosses, and I believe those were where their healers worked and where people went for their services and to worship them as deities." Then Milo pointed to a picture of a couple, the woman holding a small rectangular object outstretched in her hand. "And that is their Godbox, or at least that's what I've called it. I haven't found a good translation for the relic yet, but I believe that box was what they worshipped more than anything else in the world. Every one of the Lost Species had one. I assume it was how they prayed to their god and received blessings from it, but I can't be sure." Finding a way to obtain a functional Godbox had been at the top of Milo's goals for some time now. Perhaps with the help of the Academy, his research would take off in leaps and bounds now!

Theory leaned over the parchment, reviewing the pictures as Milo gestured to each one in turn. She furrowed her brows, hmmming carefully as she listened to his explanations. The edges were worn from much use and she was afraid to touch it, so she kept a respectful distance. Theo crept as close as she could without placing paws on the paper. The edges brushed up against her claws and she moved back an inch. "I don't want to risk damaging your materials," she said in awe. Healing required its fair share of paraphernalia, but this piece seemed so timeworn. Cobwebs for bandages might be delicate, but they were everywhere. This thing... there may be just one of these in the entire world.

"Lost Species," she mused. "Have you thought of giving them a proper name?" Looking over the pictures on the pamphlet again, she winced. "They are quite ugly. And those teeth! Mostly dull... but enough point to them that they could eat meat. I can't tell if those grimaces mean happiness or fear." Theo nodded along as he explained how they formed communities. But his final revelation was the strangest of all: their Godbox. "I've seen religion convince wolves of some interesting notions, but to capture a deity inside of that thing - to worship it - well... I'm glad you're studying them, because I feel like I want answers too!" Theory exclaimed. "Please, you must make your base of studies at the school. I'm sure others will be interested as well. My niece collects some of objects I think you'd be interested in - similar to that metal piece with the spines you showed me. She uses them to cook, although I can't say for sure that was their original purpose."

Seeing Theory's amazement at his findings and studies brought a joy to Milo the likes of which he hadn't felt in a long, long time. It was more than just her interest in what he did, it was a validation that his life's work was something worthwhile. Theory was respectful and delicate with his belongings, something he appreciated, and made some insightful observations of her own too. "Oh, most definitely! One of the most unseemly creatures I've ever seen! You should see what their offspring look like. Wretched little pink raisins that look more like shriveled up versions of the adults. Not at all like pups." he agreed with a laugh, then continued on, "Oh, they most certainly eat meat. I've seen great ruins where they would preserve and distribute their food. They proudly display visuals of cooked meats, like chickens and cows and fish. But they also eat plants, so I suspect they were omnivorous." The Headmistress then asked if he'd considered giving the species a proper name, and Milo balked at the thought. "I... suppose I never gave it any thought. I don't suppose I considered having the right to do such a thing. I wouldn't even know where to begin." In his mind, Milo was just an emphatic enthusiast with an overstuffed bag and a lust for adventure and discovery. He didn't see himself as some great scholar or scientist worthy of naming their discoveries.

Theory's excitement to have him use her school as a foundation for his research sent the earthen-hued wolf's heart soaring and his tail wagging so fast it became a blur behind him. Teal eyes went as wide as the smile on his face and he could barely contain his glee. "I would like nothing more, Miss Theory! It would be my pleasure to conduct my research and to teach the students all that I can." But the exciting news didn't stop there. Theory went on to explain how her niece had started collecting some of these artifacts as well and used them in her cooking. Milo was intrigued; he simply had to see how this other wolf was utilizing these relics! Perhaps her methods might enlighten him into some discoveries of his own. Huzzah, collaboration! "I would be very interested to meet your niece and see what she's learned about the relics," he said with a respectful dip of his head. "Thank you for giving me a chance, Miss Theory! I won't make you regret it!" Beginning to gather up his belongings once more and safely stash them in his bag, Milo raised an inquisitive look to the Headmistress. "If you don't mind, I would be interested in a tour around your campus. I'd also love a chance to ask you more about your school's mission, if I may."

Theory mulled over his description of the strange species' offspring. They definitely sounded... unappealing. "Like a rabbit kit before it gets it fur?" she queried. She'd stumbled on enough newborn nests to know what they looked like - tender, pink little scraps of flesh whose eyes weren't even open yet. "I think if you ever do want to name them, inspiration will strike when you least expect it!" There was a lovely charge in the air between them, just the kind of environment she had wanted to cultivate at the school: the thrill of intellectual ideas shared freely and openly without judgment.

"Yes, absolutely! I'm sure Fable would love to meet you, as well. She's a curious girl," she replied eagerly. "A tour is absolutely in order, and let me see if I can't track my niece down before it's over..." She turned as she ventured deeper into the territory. "This is one of our ancestral lands along with the nearby thicket. We maintained them when we transitioned into the school environment. The water stays high during most seasons until it freezes in the winter - if it freezes. During droughts it will get low enough as to not be dangerous for most adults, but it's important to watch little paws closely in this area." Once she got going, Theory moved at an easy pace along the river bank and towards the dorms nestled into the nearby cliffside.

As they came upon the main school grounds, Theo sighed happily. "As for our school's mission... these lands have seen their share of trials. Due to unforeseen environmental circumstances," and the deaths that followed "I was thrust into leadership just after my first birthday. There was no place for me to go to learn and grow without burdens. I wanted to create that."

Milo gave a brisk nod of his head when Theory described the species' offspring as rabbit kits without fur. "Precisely. Only far uglier," he remarked with a bit of a chuckle. The Headmistress assured him that inspiration for naming the creatures would strike when he least expected it, and he was inclined to agree. Muse did seem to be a fickle thing and often showed up when it was least expected. Perhaps in his time amongst his new students, he would find something to spark that idea in his head. Theory ecstatically agreed to show him around and mentioned a curious girl named Fable who he had to meet. "I would be delighted to meet your niece! As well as all the others of your pack- er, school... pack-school? Abaven. Yes, let's go with Abaven!" Milo smiled, his awkward lack of social skills painfully obvious while he tried not to make a bigger fool of himself and instead followed the Headmistress' lead. Theory explained every part of the land they passed through and its importance to Abaven. The ancestral lands of the rapids and nearby thicket. She cautioned him on the rapids, but after having his own firsthand account with the rushing waters, Milo knew better than to disregard safety when around them. "I will exercise the utmost caution around them then," he assured his new alpha with a resolute nod.

The trek along the riverfront was peaceful and idyllic. Milo could see why Theory had chosen to found her school here. The lands were gorgeous and had plenty of nature to lend itself to an environment for fostering education. Shorty thereafter, the two wolves arrived to the cliffs that made up the school proper. Milo gazed in awe at the vastness of the lands. Abaven was a huge pack in terms of territory! As the Destruction woman explained her motivation behind the founding of the school, Milo listened with intent and alert ears. Her story drew a sad yet understanding nod from the man. "It sounds like it was a prudent decision to go in the direction you did. Very sagacious of you, Miss Theory." A pause lapsed between them before the man added, "I'm sorry you were forced to take on so much so young. It seems like you've done a tremendous job with the hand you've been dealt though." He couldn't even begin to imagine how he would handle such responsibilities thrust upon him at that age. Theory was a masterclass in tenacity, it seemed.

After some more walking towards the cliffs with Milo drinking in his surroundings, another question came to his mind. "So what does your faculty look like so far? How many professors should I be expecting to collaborate with? What's the expected size of your student body?"

Walking through the lands and introducing them to another was always somehow bittersweet. There were so many memories here - not even just her own. Generations of memories of Destruction wolves were inextricably tied to these lands. The earth here had been fed by their blood, sweat, tears, and eventually bones. They were as much part of this land as the trees or the rock outcropping that now composed the school halls. How could she have ever thought of leaving here?

Milo's quirky personality kept her chuckling as they made their way to the schoolgrounds. "I appreciate the compliment, professor. I truly believe this is my life's calling," she let out a long, pleasant sigh as they came to stop in the main school yard. "Currently the professor pool is not as large as I'd like. I was told by some alphas that they would send wolves, but promises seem to have fallen through or perhaps they were needed elsewhere. As it stands, we have myself, Corvus for fighting and Twig for hunting, my sister Poem who is an expert fighter and Dean of Physical Studies, and yourself for general studies and intellectual pursuits. There are several other adults who are brushing up on their own skills to assist as well - a few healers. I would say I specialize in combat healing - fractures, cuts, emergency stitch and fix type things." She made her way into the yawning entryway. Immediately the air cooled as the shadow of the rocks passed over her. The passage was lit dimly by smoldering sconces on equidistant pedestals lining the hall. Every so often narrow skylights allowed light from above to cut through to the stone floor. Her claws clicked rhythmically on the floor until she came to stop where the way ahead divided in two. "To the left are student dorms and to the right are professors' quarters and classrooms - let's see, shall we?"

She headed down the hall until they came to the first classroom. It was facing the ocean and you could hear the crash of the waves reverberating ever through the stone. After a while it became pleasant background noise - a soft melody to fill the silence between lectures. "Teachers can choose wherever they'd like to set up lessons, but we have options." For now the room was a vast and empty blank slate; the acoustics were excellent.