Shetani
Claws clanked on the floor of the alleyways as Shetani ran through it. He had a big steak in his mouth. His long jet black fur flowed behind him, and his sea blue eyes scanned the alleyway as he run. His ears were pricked and slightly turned behind him. He heard footsteps. He knew what it was. It was a human.
He had followed the scent of blood he had smelt before to a small shop off the alley. It had been a butcher shop, and he had snuck in a took a huge steak. The owner had saw him though and now was chasing him. He didn't feel like fighting the bastard so he ran. He turned down an alleyway and skidded to a stop in front of a building. He looked back and saw the two-leg. He pointed something at him. He didn't know what it was. He then saw the human's finger move and a loud bang echoed in the air and a flash from the device. Something hit the ground near Shetani's feet. It was quick and he knew what it was then.....It was a gun.
Shetani looked behind him and saw a hole big enough for him to squeze through. He ran through it with him prize and several other bangs went off behind him. He stopped inside the building and looked at the hole. He wondered if the human would be able to fit through it. It was.
The human got on him hands and knees and squezzed through the hole, still pointing the gun at Shetani. Shetani growled but then ran more into the building. He had to get away.
The human had got in by now and now was chasing Shetani again, shooting when he thought he had a good shot.
Auri
Life was sluggishly droning along around the Shadow Lurkers, and it seemed to be going by without Auri. She had never recovered from her traumatic childhood; her mother had killed her father when she was just a pup. She was dead set against Saydin, the beast who she wished was not her mother. Her paternal older half-sister had raised her in the Night Watch pack, but she left to pursue a life with the Shadow Lurkers. She bore an exact resemblance to her paternal grandmother, Aurinka, whom she had never gotten to meet, as her death was before Auri was born. Even her personality was quite similar. For this reason, Desmon, who was in love with Aurinka and sired her pups, had bonded with Auri. Auri figured this relationship must feel unusual to Desmon and the rest of the Shadow Lurkers pack. Nevertheless, she and Desmon were inseparable to the point that they had started a family.
A loud sound awoke Auri from her light slumber. It was a familiar sound, one that she had heard too many times, and she immediately knew what it was: a gun. Her slender, fleet legs took her gracefully down the stairs of her sleeping place, only to see an unfamiliar wolf hybrid. The greeting would have to come later, for Auri had a family to protect from the human. The coyote/wolf hybrid raced around the human, snapping at him in hopes of injuring him or at least scaring him away. Without turning her attention away from the human, she shouted to Shetani, "RUN!" She hoped the stranger would run and find somewhere to hide in the den, for she didn't want to have the guilt of letting the hybrid die. Of course, he may be strong and fast enough to help Auri fend off the human, but only if he made that choice.
Shetani
Shetani ears twitched at another sound, the sound of pawsteps. It was coming towards him and then he saw it the one making the sound, a canine. He expected the fea to run but she ran right past him, and attacked the two-leg. He skidded to a stop and dropped his steak. He looked back to see the two-leg point the gun at her. He reacted without thinking and leaped at the two-leg, biting the gun, making it twist in his hand and shoot the not 2 inches to the right of the fea. He then turn and twisted while hanging on his arm, ripping the gun out of his hand. He landed and threw the gun aside. He growled at the two-leg, baring his teeth and stepping towards him. The two-leg looked and saw he was outnumbered so he ran away.
Shetani chased him for a bit but let him go. He then went back and picked up the steak. He layed down and started to wolf it down, ignoring the fea he just helped. A breeze blew through the building and blews his half-breed scent to the fea.
Audra & others
Audra glanced up at the sound of a gun, her body instantly on alert. Auds pricked she gave a sharp bark to the other wolves around her, know something was up. Movement at the den entrance proved to be a wolf, who held a chunk of meat. Right behind the canine was a human, who held the gun, and was coming into their homes. She rushed forward, followed quickly by her siblings Vixen and Falcon. By the time they reached the human to help Auri, he had already ran in fear. When the brute, that led the human here, came back and simply ignored them and ate, had Audra slightly annoyed. The male didn’t even thank them. Don't get her wrong now, she was glad he had helped Auri, especially since she could have been shot. However he was the one who had led the human with the gun here. A low growl came from Falcon, who showed that he wasn’t happy about the stranger being here and ignoring them. Vixen soon had him quieted though, and then three shared a glance before looking to Auri, as if to say what now? It was clear the hybrid wasn't a member here.
Auri; Kobalt
Auri had been snarling as she snapped at the human, and she still was. There was the anger from the human being here, but moreover the anger from Shetani, a stranger, coming onto Shadow Lurker land uninvited and disobeying the request of the host. "Excuse me. This is Shadow Lurker territory, sir. I'm going to have to ask what your business is here." She said it in the most polite way she possibly could, but her brother, Kobalt, who had just arrived at the sound of the gunshots, wasn't too happy about the trespasser.
Kobalt, in contrast to his sister's lithe 85 pound frame, was a whopping 140 pounds. His thick white coat, accented with gray-blue highlighting, looked smooth and silky in the sunlight from the windows. He was a beautiful, well-behaved coywolf, but when somebody disrespected him or his sister, with all they had been through, he wasn't so nice. "Alright, this had better be quick and no-nonsense. Tell us what you're doing here and why you think it's alright to trespass on another pack's territory." Kobalt's pale yellow eyes were fixed on Shetani, watching his every move.
Auri, spotting her packmates arrive, acknowledged them with a nod. "Audra, Vixen, Falcon... Good to see you." With the greeting done, she then motioned for them to come closer. She needed safety in numbers in case anything happened.
Shetani
Shetani ripped apart the meet when he heard a wolf growling at him. He lifted his head to see more wolves around him. They must of come when they heard the gun shots. His hackles raised, and he bared his teeth at the brute that growled at him. He stopped though and his tail twitched as he turned his gaze on the female talking to him. He started chewing on his meal again as she spoke, listening with pricked ears. When she said this was pack territory, he stopped eating and sat up, the meat in-between his paws. He looked around the abandoned building then back at the fea. he barked looking at her with his cold sea blue eyes. He looked over all the canines there.
Audra & others
Audra was silent as Auri spoke to the stranger, asking what he was doing here. The silvery black goddess was trying to be patient, but she wasn’t happy with the loner being here. The male had already caused enough problems in her mind. Yellow orbs stayed on him as she waited for a response. The scent of Kobalt approaching made her a little more happy, this brute knew how to handle situations like this. He got right down to business, and demanded an answer, one that Audra was waiting to hear too. Hearing Auri speak her name, she looked to her, and them moved to stand at her fellow pack member’s side. She would of allowed their coats to brush to reassure her as well, nothing was going to happen to her. Vixen and Falcon followed closely behind, Falcon still baring his fangs at the stranger. The male was still tearing into his meat, when he finally looked up after Falcon’s growl.
Audra grew angry, something highly unusual for the sweet tempered femora, when he showed hostile moves. Seeing his hackles raised, brought her own high, and her own pearly whites came out to play. Let her have a piece of this fucker, he was outnumbered and still ignoring their questions. He even went back to eating! Pissed off, she attacked him when he just stared at them with emotionless eyes. Her 110 pound form rushed forth, and their wasn’t much distance between her and the loner now, so hopefully it was a surprise attack. Audra would of attempted to knock his form over, and place her paw over his throat if he landed right, not yet putting enough pressure to choke him if it worked. Her fangs would have been just an inch away from his face as she spoke in a heated voice.
Answer them, now.
Slight pressure would have been added then, to let him know she wasn’t playing. If her attack had missed, she would of spun around to face him, ready for any return attack. Her siblings remained where they were for now. Both were watching closely, to see if he was stupid enough to attack. She pitied him if he was, he would be dead for sure than.
Kobalt
Auri was a gentle hybrid, and very patient, but she would not hesitate to take on a dominant appearance when a stranger trespassed. She had pups to look after, and she would not tolerate an unknown individual walking straight into their den with no permission as if it was his own, and then refusing to answer the pack members. "I say again, stranger: what is your name and what is your business in Shadow Lurker territory?" She stepped forward, her tail held high in a sign of dominance.
Kobalt did not like this situation one bit. As far as he was concerned, Shetani had no business being in pack territory without permission. "Answer my sister's question or get the fuck off of Shadow Lurker territory." When he noticed Audra rushing toward Shetani in an attempt to attack him, Kobalt also bolted toward the stranger. He circled around Shetani, letting Audra handle the situation, but he would gladly jump in if he needed to.
Shetani
Shetani's ears twitched as the fea spoke again to him. She demanded his name and what he was doing here. His eyes then shifted to the other fea charging at him and he jumped up and jumped out of the way of the fea. His ivories showed as he bared his teeth. She attacked him out of no where! No way. That wasn't going to slide with him. He circled her, his hackles raised. He then jumped at her side, his mouth gaping. If it would work, he would pierce her shoulder and he would have her on the ground in a second, showing the little bitch to not mess with him.
Audra & Others
Audra could tell Auri was becoming angry and stressed, something that was starting to come from her as well. The other female wolf even asked for the brute to explain himself again, which got no result. In fact even Kobalt told the brute to leave, instead he choose to fight her back. She knew her pack member had pups, they needed protection, just like the rest of the pack. Which is why she attacked the brute for not answering them, because she saw him as a threat. The silvery black huntress noticed the male coming forth to help her, but she was also glad he hung back, like her siblings did as well. She wanted to fight this stupid bastard, to show him who he was dealing with. Audra may be a female, but she wasn’t a pushover either. Hell, rough housing with her siblings had taken that off pretty quick. Her attack missed, the male got up and jumped out of the way in time. She spun around to see him bare his tools at her, letting her know he was about to attack, and allowing her own pearls to shine right back at him.
His pillars soon went into motion, bringing her own forth so she could keep pace with him, watching him with chocolate jewels as he moved around her. Snarling softly she waited, knowing he was about to come, and soon he was jumping at her. There wasn’t time for her to move, so instead she made to make impact with her shoulder upon his own, something that would hopefully knock them both down. She came close to being bit, even felt his hot breath upon her fur, but she hoped her tactic worked. However, she was trying for the upper hand as well, for she would of used the momentum to roll with him, trying to be the one to come out on top. Flashes of her belly’s white fur would have been seen then. That way she could pin him down, and deal with as they saw fit, although she doubted they’d kill him. They weren’t that harsh, not unless he continued to prove himself as a threat. Body weight hopefully holding him down now, she would of simply bared her fangs in simple warming. Towers were pricked upon her head, listening for Auri or Kobalt’s words if there were any. If none of her moves would of worked, she would of waited for a return attack this time, probably worrying about where this male’s fangs would land next.
Ninaki
It was a fortunate thing for Shetani that Argolis was not in the building at the time, or near enough to hear the commotion, because the solo leader of the Shadow Lurkers was as much of a hothead still as his mother had been when she first took over the pack. He'd mellowed some, sure, but he had yet to deal with a stranger in their midst. Where the alpha was busy, the beta of the pack was sleeping quietly upstairs, curled up on an old blanket when the shots and snarls rang out from below.
Aged and crippled by old illnesses and battles, Ninaki was not physically fit for his role as the pack's second in command, but no one had yet stood up to take the old hybrid's place, and so he remained the beta and provided the pack with wisdom and direction when it was needed, and showed no hesitation as he scrambled down the rickety steps and took in the sight before him; Audra and some unknown male were sparring, while Kobalt was circling the pair under the watchful gaze of several other pack members. "Enough!" The lanky, brown and tan hybrid barked out, attempting to stall the fighting between Audra and Shetani and figure out what in the world was going on here. "Who is this? What's going on?" His tail was up and hackles raised as he stalked stiff-legged towards the combatants.
Auri; Kobalt; Lumina; Nox
Kobalt's long legs carried his 3+ foot tall frame around Shetani, who apparently still refused to state his business. A logical guess would be that he meant harm if he blatantly disobeyed the pack members on their own territory, judging by the fact that he became hostile simply because of the Lurkers' rightful request for identification. The massive coywolf moved to the opposite side from Shetani from Audra, and when Shetani and Audra apparently met for and attack, Kobalt lunged as well, going for the trespasser's throat. He wouldn't kill him if he got the grip, though; he wanted answers.
"HEY!" Auri screamed at Shetani when he returned Audra's attack. "You! Leave now if you're gonna be a bellicose little bastard!" Auri's outburst may have come as a surprise to her packmates, as she rarely rose her voice. Upon hearing herself, she shuddered, her eyes widening, and she became queasy. Was she... was she really... turning into her mother? She hated to think about Saydin, but the thought wouldn't leave her mind. Saydin killed her father, dear sweet Kahvi, in cold blood for no reason.
Her heart racing, she withdrew into that flashback, walking backwards until she bumped into Ninaki. She turned to face him and dipped her head. "Sorry, Ninaki. I didn't see you there." She ran off and hid under a flight of stairs, becoming physically ill due to the stress. Whimpering was heard from her, which drew two of her pups out from the box in which they were hiding.
Lumina and Nox stumbled toward the beta male. Nox was the first to speak, peering up at the hybrid who towered over him. "Ninaki?" His voice was soft, quiet and squeaky.
"Shhhh, he's busy." Lumina whispered to her brother, nudging him gently.
Kobalt took a short moment to briefly explain the situation to the beta male, and if his previous attempt to grab Shetani by the throat succeeded, he would be talking through his teeth. "He's trespassing, he lured a gunman here, he wouldn't answer us when we asked him what he was doing here, and he became hostile. I bet he's from the Nuova Alba." At that last comment, his pale yellow eyes glared into Shetani's mind along with a deep growl from his throat.
Shetani
Shetani growled as he missed the femme's fur and clamped down on air. He grunted as she pushed her shoulder against him and he lost balance. They rolled together but he knew he had more weight then this femme and more strength. He put that to good use and if he moved his body right, he would end up on top of the fea's body. His ears pricked at the sound of a wolf's voice saying enough. When he started rolling, another brute's fangs missed his throat by an inch since he was pushed over and he was grateful for the fea's move.
Audra & Others
Hearing Auri’s shout to the male had her shocked, but she kept her attention on the fight, it was just unusual coming from the small female. Chocolate orbs saw Kobalt circle them, and knew he was going to try for an attack. It wasn’t long before he aimed for Shetani’s throat, but it was dodged due to her attack hitting the male’s shoulder. Now they were rolling upon the ground, both wolves fighting for the top position to end the fight. The scent of Ninaki entered her nostrils, and she knew the beta had stirred from his sleep, something that slightly pissed her off more. The aging beta needed his rest, and now he had to come deal with this bastard’s bullshit. The male’s extra weight had her pinned beneath him soon, but she wasn’t done yet, far from it actually. Her motto was never to give up, even when things looked impossible, and from her position of surrender it nearly was. She heard his call of enough, but she dared not to break away yet, in fear of sneak attacks from the male. The silvery ebony goddess aimed a hard nip at his leg, hoping he would lift it, and give her enough lee way to make a scramble away from him. As he questioned what was going on and who the male was, the silvery black femme stayed silent as she made to stand near them, if she managed to escape. Audra knew someone else would answer instead. Kobalt soon did from where he stood, explaining the gunshots and the trespasser’s reluctance to obey. He even added that he thought the male was from Nuova Alba, which brought a snarl from Falcon to join with Kobalt’s growl. It made her uneasy as she looked from everyone around her as she wondered if he really was from the group that caused many deaths for them already. Ears against her head she waited to see what would happen.
Vixen noticed how Auri was having problems, something was wrong with her, and it had her concerned. The solid black female followed after her when she noticed Auri taking off. Along the way she made to grab little Nox and he spoke to Ninaki, not wanting the pups near the fight, and her brown chin became hidden for a moment as she ducked after her pack mate. If she had managed to grab the pup, she would of set her down near Auri, being careful to avoid the vomit with the pup. A quick glance back showed Falcon trying to gently nudge Lumina in their direction, and she knew her sibling would bring the other pup if he needed to. Her main priority now was calming Auri down while she was around the pups. She was hoping the stress was from the threats, because she really didn’t know what else was bothering Auri.
Auri it’s okay, no one’s going to hurt your or the pups.
Ninaki
Ninaki wished for his younger days, where he could rush in himself and take a chunk out of the intruder, but he knew he'd likely only get in the way and get himself hurt before he managed to help the situation. Instead, the beta stood rigidly where he was, watching the fight as Kobalt lunged at Shetani, and as Shetani briefly got the upperhand over Audra. Muscles coiled, wanting to spring in and defend the female, but it looked like she was handling herself well enough, "You have one last chance to stand down and submit stranger, or I will have the pack tear you to shreds!" Ninaki had reached the end of his patience and snarled his ultimatum to Shetani. Koblat's suggestion that the male might be from one of their rival packs further boiled the beta's blood. He was so focused on the quarrel that he didn't immediately notice Auri fleeing towards the stairs until she blundered into him, causing the lanky hybrid to stumble back a bit. If his attention wasn't needed on the fight, he'd have taken a moment to speak with her and find out what had bothered the female so much, but thankfully Vixen had taken it upon herself to look after the shaken female. That left Ninaki to glance briefly down at Nox, "Stay back, little one. Stay with your mother."
Shetani
Shetani smirked as he landed on top of the femme and he pushed her down hard. He looked up, ignoreing the femme he stood on and barked loudly. STOP IT!! he growled like he was ordering them around. He winced as the female bit into his leg but he didn't let her go. His blood flowed down his leg. His tail lashed with anger and his eyes scanned his situation. He didn't take his eyes off any of them, except for the female he stood on. Why don't you let me explain myself before eccusing me. What is this Nuova Alba you speak of? And I am here because I was being chased by a stupid two-leg with a gun. I was hungry so I stole their meat from them since there is no prey to catch in this concrete jungle. He spoke with a calm voice even though his body shows he was fully pissed and he was ready to fight. The bastard chased me and this was the only place I could hide. How was I supposed to know an actual pack lived in this hell-hole. he barked, finishing his explanations. A breeze blew through the building, his half wolf, half Alaskan Malamute scent being carried throughout the building. He growled to no one in perticuliar. He knew they could smell it and he decided, then and there, that if any of them called him a Half-Breed, he would personally rip their eyes out, stuff it down their throat, so they could watch him rip them apart from the inside.
Auri; Kobalt; Lumina; Nox
Kobalt's heart rate skyrocketed. Not only had Shetani invaded their home, but he also refused to explain himself, became hostile, and terrified his timid, unhealthy sister enough to make her sick. And now... Is he playing dumb or is he actually that dumb? Kobalt thought to himself, inching closer to the stranger, faster and faster, until he stood straight in front of him. He took a deep breath, and what came next was not typical for him. "WE FUCKING GAVE YOU A FUCKING CHANCE TO EXPLAIN YOURSELF!!!" He shouted in a deafeningly loud voice, which could be heard all throughout the alleys. "Quit playing dumb, you dirty half-breed bastard! We fucking TOLD you to explain yourself, but you refused, staring at us like you want us to think you don't know jack-shit or we don't know jack-shit!" The big hybrid circled around the intruder, his eyes full of rage and his teeth bared, ready to snap. The next bullshit - as he saw it - that came out of Shetani's mouth had Kobalt chuckling sarcastically. In his mind, it appeared that Shetani was selectively deaf to their words when he was told multiple times that a pack lived here, selectively blind to the pack members, refusing to smell the pack's scent, or just plain dim-witted. At least, that was his belief.
"What do you mean 'how was I supposed to know?!?!?!'" Came another shout. "We told you that our pack lived here and we told you multiple times to explain what you were doing on Shadow Lurker territory, but you just stood there with that dumb-as-sin look on your face!" With all his strength and 140 pounds to back him up, he rushed at Shetani in an attempt to barrel him off of Audra. "Now get off of her! Weren't you ever told how to treat a lady?!" It was clear that he had a deep admiration for Audra, and by the way he had been trying to protect her from this intruder throughout this attack, it was really showing.
Nox didn't protest as he was lifted up by Vixen; he was in absolute shock at what was going on. They hadn't had an intruder this... potentially dangerous throughout his short life, and he hadn't really heard any tales about it either. Upon being set down, he just stared at Auri. He had never seen her this sad or scared before, and it scared him too. "Mama, it's okay..." The pup whispered, nuzzling his mother softly.
Lumina, her legs weak from the same shock her brother was undergoing, stumbled toward her mother and brother, falling on the ground next to Vixen, shaking out of fear the whole time.
Auri looked up at Vixen, her eyes soft and sorrowful. "It's not that -- I mean, I'm scared for our safety, but I've got you guys here to protect us, but..." She hobbled a few feet away from where she got sick, resting her aching head on a trash bag. "...I feel like I'm turning into my mother. I think I'm turning into Saydin." Just saying her wicked mother's name made her shudder. She didn't want to be like that. She didn't want to mercilessly kill another creature and still sleep soundly at night.
Audra & Others.
Audra realized Ninaki must have finally realized what was going on, for he gave one last warning to the male. You’d better listen to him mongrel. She snarled out, which was a normal word she used, but the male would probably see it as a half-breed insult. The longer she was under the brute, the more angry she became, to the point when she grabbed his leg, she refused to let it go. The stupid bastard even acted like he was their boss, by ordering them around, and then making it seem like it was their fault. He even made the mistake of taking his orbs off her, and it only caused her to clamp down harder upon his leg, which she probably still had in her jaws. Oh she was so ticked off. They gave him plenty of fucking time, and he was lucky Kobalt beat her to a return replace, or else she would have been yelling in his face as she tore after him in a frenzy. She could tell her pack mate was no happy, she had never seen him in such a rage, or talk in such foul language. For just a moment fear over flooded her, but she soon lost it out of rational thinking, she knew Kobalt wouldn’t harm her. Every word Kobalt spoke was true, they gave him time, he was too stupid not to take it, or to realize he was in pack territory. Hell, they even told him it was, and yet he refused to listen, damn how stupid could this brute be? Eyes full of fury, she didn’t see Kobalt coming to barrel into the male until it was too late, and didn’t have a change to let go of his limb if she still held it. So either, the male managed to jerk it free, and tearing it all the way down, or he would have seriously risked a broken leg. Now that her mouth was free, she allowed her lyrics to roll forth as she stood to stand by Kobalt’s side.
I say we give the shitty mongrel back to the human?
Normally she would of given Kobalt a look of thanks, but in this situation it wasn’t happening, and so she simply allowed her flag to gently hit his side a few times. She admitted the male as well, no matter the situation, he stood up for those he cared about. It was what made her really like him in the first place. The intruder even made fun of their home, something she didn’t like, and was seriously thinking about attacking him again. Especially if he tried to give dumb ass excuses again. Falcon snarled from where he was, and bared his fangs, letting the male know he was about to join in as well. He was royally pissed off now.
Vixen looked to little Nox as he came forth to speak to his mother. It was sweet, him trying to comfort her, but she wanted to know what was wrong with her pack mate. When Lumina finally came, she gently picked the fallen scared pup up, and put her next to her mother for shelter. It’s alright Lumina, your mommy just had a scare. Just as she finished, Auri moved away and became sick again, and she followed after her as she explained what was wrong. Auri, you could never be like Saydin. She’s the only monster that could ever be like that. You are too sweet and kind-hearted. That male had it coming, there’s only so far someone could be pushed. Besides, I know you could never become a merciless killer like her. Okay? In silence she waited for an answer, only wanting to ease the other huntress mind.
Shetani
Shetani winced as the femme bit harder into his leg and he ripped it free from her grip, causing a long wound down his leg. His ears twitched as the other brute spoke. Rage filled his whole body as he called him his forbidden word. As soon as he heard 'half-breed' come out of the bastard maw, he jumped off of the femme and ran towards him. He was gonna kill him. The brute had charged at him and Shetani side-stepped quickly to his side and lunged at the side of the brute neck. Even though he was pissed, his mind went over his situation to see what he can do. If his move had worked, he would have the bastard on the floor in 3 seconds and he would move his jaws from the side of his neck to underside of his neck. Even if he missed, he would turn to face him again for another attack. He spoke in a cool voice, his jaw full of fur if his plan worked, You have NO right to call me a half-breed when you're one yourself!!!! he growled. He had smelt the brute coyote and wolf scents before and it pissed him off that he had the ordasity to call HIM the half-breed.
Ninaki
Ninaki had been on the verge of calling an attack on Shetani, not at all liking how the hybrid had acted like the boss of the joint, and he especially didn't like how the male was still standing over Audra and keeping her down. His fur bristled more, until his guard hairs stood on end and buffed up his lanky appearance to something a little more intimidating looking. "If it was an accident that you barge into our home..." The beta started off, speaking with a resounding growl that was meant to warn Shetani to mind his manners, "..we will understand that. But we do not take kindly to our members being assault. Move away from-" Before he had the chance to continue, his tenuous line of patience snapped, but not before Kobalt's did. A fight had broken out again, and this one was more brutal than the one that had woken him up. With Audra and Kobalt under direct assault, Ninaki gave a sharp, ringing bark, "Lurkers, take him out!"
Auri; Kobalt; Lumina; Nox; Nightshade
Kobalt was a quick canine, always ready for an assault, always expecting that somebody like Shetani would be around the corner, waiting to try to kill him. He had grown up on the run; the only thing between him and his black widow of a mother was his half-sister, Nightshade. She was infamous to her enemies but a savior to her allies. On the top of the humans' wanted list for killing 17 humans as well as 3 horses, plus ruining people's property and ruining their lives, she had earned her reputation of a fierce, merciless warrior. Kobalt felt much safer with Nightshade around... which was why he needed her now. She was going to take Auri and her pups hunting today, so she couldn't be far off.
But that would have to wait for at least a few minutes. Kobalt had his mind on the battle for now. "Well, see, I'm not a cocky bastard like you. I'm proud to be a mutt." At this moment, his pride of having coyote DNA really showed; due to the agile frame of the coyote, he was able to not only avoid Shetani's attack, but he also managed to leap over him and land on the opposite side. "And since when does a dirty flea-bitten half-breed mongrel bastard child trespasser decide what my rights are?" With a few moments free, he raised his head and let out a long, piercing howl. It was a battle cry; a call to the Paslen-Proval residents to come join in on the fight, as well as the rest of the Lurkers.
His response to Audra's suggestion came soon afterward. "I think that's a great idea, Audra." His attention quickly turned back to Shetani with a sharp glare. "We could just take you to the poachers and be done with you, but then again, why should we make them do all the work?" A dark, sadistic grin stretched across his maw, his deadly teeth showing in a display of complete dominance over Shetani.
Auri let her head rest on the trash bag, her eyes drifting up to look at Vixen. She had to admit that her packmate was a caring friend, and she probably would only say something if she absolutely believed it. However, to ease her frail mind, she just had to make sure. "You really think so?" The coywolf whispered, raising her head a bit. "But I've got her evil in my blood, don't I?" She paused, looking at the dull gray cement below her, and began sobbing. "Unless... unless my dad's kindness and love cancels it out. I'll never forget his last act in life... All he wanted was for his children to be safe, but he knew his death was inevitable. All I could do was watch as he suffered the cold, life-taking grip of that whore's jaws... all I could do was watch the bloodshed. I wish I could have saved him. Every day I bang my head against the wall because I did nothing. I hate myself for that." She rested her head in her paws and rubbed her arm across the top of her head, as if to clean it, but it revealed the self-inflicted cuts and bruises.
Suddenly, a burning hatred lit up in her eyes. "But there is one thing to do..." She looked back up at Vixen, her facial expression showing her rage. "An eye for an eye." She wanted revenge. She wanted to do to Saydin what she did to Kahvi. If she could rid the world of one more she-beast like her mother, she would feel a little bit more at ease.
Within a few minutes, Nightshade was barging into the den. Lumina and Nox, surprised but not quite scared, darted behind Vixen. The massive 190 pound jet-black coywolf quickly assessed the situation. There was somebody here who wasn't invited, and it was clear that the pack wanted him out. She strode toward Shetani, hackles raised and teeth bared, and she addressed him curtly and without a single sign that she would offer one bit of mercy. "You'd better tell us what the fuck you're doing here, mutt. You've got five seconds."
Shetani
Shetani growled as his attack missed and the bastard half-breed jumped over him to his other side. He stopped and jumped away for room to attack again. His ears twitched as the brute spoke and called him his forbidden word again. The brute then howled and Shetani knew he was in trouble. Of course, he knew he was in trouble when the old canine of the group ordered them to attack. His eyes scanned the situation. There were five wolves, and two pups. 3 of the wolves looked like they would fight and he looked across the bodies of the brute, the femme he had fought earlier and the femme that was with the other one. Either way, even if he thought of as many stragedies as he could, it would not end well. He then cursed to himself as another wolf came into the seen, a jet-black female coywolf, judging by her scent and the smell of estrogen in the air form her. She demanded him to tell her why he was here and bared her teeth at him.
He backed away from the wolves, his tail lashing. He had to think of something, and the last thing, which was the most logical, he would do was submit to the bastards. He scanned over the bodies, his muscles tense and waited for their attack.
Audra & Others
Audra was on her paws in an instant when Shetani finally got off her. Her limbs were starting to propel her forwards to stop his attack on Kobalt. At least he knows how to act like one. Her words came quickly after Shetani said Kobalt had no right to call him a half-breed. Pure fury had her shaken, she almost lost her sight and went into a rage, and it was clear it was because Shetani tried to attack Kobalt. Tried was the key word, because her pack mate was quick in dodging the whole thing, impressing her along the way. Ninaki was soon speaking again, giving the order she had been waiting for, to finally get rid of this bastard. Kobalt soon gave loose a howl, it was calling to their allies and pack mates, one that wouldn’t go ignored. The whole time she leveled her heated gaze upon Shetani, fully expecting him to try a sneak attack on her pack mate, especially since his ego was still hurt. Her fangs came out to play, and since she knew what ticked him off, she couldn’t help but try to make him even madder. Hell, he had her beyond pissed off right now. Pathetic half-breed. A smile came to her maw when Kobalt responded to her, saying he thought it was a great idea, and he continued by saying they could or just do the work themselves. She was all for the last part. Smirking she came to stand beside Kobalt, her deadly pearls in view for all to see. Audra saw a figure enter the den, and it took her about a minute to recognize Nightshade, Lumina, and. Nox. The male backed up, soon into a corner, where he was clearly ready for battle. He completely ignored Nightshade, breaking her control completely at this point, she ended up rushing forward to place an attack. She was so lost in her own rage and need to protect those she cared for, Audra wasn’t sure she could even stop herself. The goddess found herself snapping out anywhere she could, attempting to meet him for a head on attack, her deadly fangs trying to latch on to any place. Somebody help him if he exposed anything vulnerable too, because at this point she was ready to kill. If she could see herself right now, she would be terrified of her own image.
Vixen was concerned over her friend and pack mate, and was glad when it seemed her words were calming Auri. I know so. Your father’s blood is in you so much, that not even an ounce of it can belong to that bitch. Auri you are nothing like Saydin, you never could be, I believe and know it. Just like I know it wasn’t your fault, you were too young to do anything, you would have only gotten yourself killed too. Kahvi wouldn’t be happy about that. Seeing the cuts and bruises had her coming closer, making sure to not step on the young ones, and groom the femme’s heads. Showing comfort and that it wasn’t her fault. When she looked up, Vixen met her gaze, but was confused by her words. Questioning her with her orbs, she waited for a answer. What exactly was Auri planning? When more wolves came in, she watched as Nightshade’s children ran to stand behind her with Auri and her pups. She would stay with them, and protect them with her life, even though she knew that filthy mutt wasn’t making it back here.
Falcon remained among the others still, ready to attack as a group if it came, although he knew it wouldn’t take much to kill this mongrel. His siblings, Breeze and Hedes soon joined him, answering the call from Kobalt. It didn’t take them long to assess the situation, and when they did, they took up their own sides ready to kill the intruder. Especially if he was daring enough to make a counter attack on Audra, let alone a single bite mark on her figure. Falcon even closed in a little closer, ready to rush forward as well, but was calm enough to wait for a signal at the moment from Ninaki or one of the others.
Shetani
Shetani's blood boiled as the bitch called him a half-breed and a growl escaped his muzzle. He was backed into a corner and he didn't know what to do. More rienforcements were coming and he was alone. He was surprised when the femme ran towards him to lash out at him. He read her moves easily, being able to dodge it fast enough. He guessed she was so filled with rage that she wasn't thinking. A big mistake in a battle in his opinion. Each time she lashed out, he dodged it but didn't attack yet. He was gonna play defense for now.
Ninaki & Skeil
Attacking the Lurkers was like throwing a stone into a hornet's nest, as Shetani was beginning to find out. The full force of the pack had yet to show up, and as those members out and about the city heard and responded to the howls of war, their allies from far afield were being gathered as well thanks to Kobalt. Ninaki felt the rush of a fight boiling up in his blood, but he didn't actually make a move for Shetani yet, not when the younger, more able-bodied canines were making their move against him. He would stand by and watch for the time being, ready to give out orders, or to jump in if he saw he was needed.
From a short distance away, the wavering, baritone howl of Argolis shook through the air and announced the alpha's approach to the den. If he should arrive before the fight could be settled, it was very unlikely that this big brute would even consider a surrender from Shetani. Before Argolis reached the scene however, Skeil was charging in through the rusted doors and taking no more than a few seconds to stop and gauge the scene for herself before she plunged into action. The old, all-white pitbull might be older than Ninaki, but she had aged better than their sickly beta, and still had enough vigor and strength in her muscled body to give most enemies a good thrashing, and that's exactly what she planned to do with Shetani. Not knowing or caring how the fight had started, Skeil aimed to jump up and pin her powerful jaws around one of Shetani's shoulders...
Shetani
Shetani was still dodging when another scent hit his nostrils and his ears twitched at the sound of claws clanking on hard concrete coming towards him. He looked out of the corner of his eye and saw another canine coming at him. A female pitbull this time. He scanned the situation quickly and sidestepped to his right. He hoped he dodged the pit and wolf simutaniously and hoped that they would crash into each other in the process, possibly disorienting them.
Nightshade & Others
No one gets out of here alive
In the melee there are many ways to cry
Who knows where the gunshots are coming from
Those who've been picked off aren't saying much
Nightshade was the dominant type; she submitted to the authorities she respected - such as the Shadow Lurkers - but she also knew how to take control of the situation. She was an experienced fighter and an experienced...negotiator. She had to be, as she was raised in a bloodline that was infamous among the Valley. Everybody wanted Tahti's prodigy dead at some point. There was even a spat between the Lurkers and Tahti and one of her first daughters, Aurinka - Nightshade, Auri and Kobalt's grandmother, whom they never got the chance to meet. The resulting exile, and thus the loss of protection, ultimately led to the death of both Aurinka and Tahti. Nightshade, therefore, was not a fan of the previous Lurker queen, Hydras. She was coping, but she could never forgive anybody for the death of so many of her relatives. Tahti's bloodline carried a curse. A curse of dirty blood destined to be shed. It was something that haunted the mentally wearied Nightshade. She didn't feel much anymore; not much besides rage, although her mate, Failure, as well as her relatives, managed to bring out a level of passion from the emotionally exhausted hybrid.
"Lurkers." Nightshade said indifferently, nodding to Ninaki with great respect. "If you don't mind, I may be able to offer some aid in this situation." Her once-lively eyes, now dull and jaded, offered a passing glance to the attacking canines. "Let's offer the little rat a chance to give in." Her eyes were then fixed on Shetani in a demanding, piercing stare. "Well, go on." Her calmness was a false calm, an eerie, spine-chilling calm; she would quickly fight, and she would enjoy ridding the world of one more enemy.
A black snake slithered out of Nightshade's fur, previously hidden within her thickening fall coat. "Really, Nightshade?" The fierce snake - or inland taipan - hissed with his tongue flicking in and out of his mouth between his deadly fangs. A bite could cause death in 5 to 10 minutes.
"Hush, Maelstrom." Nightshade grumbled to the snake, and the snake in turn kept quiet and slithered forward so his head was resting between the big coywolf's ears. He was, however, poised to strike, and he certainly would if Shetani didn't stand down and state his name and reason for being here right away.
Kobalt was surprised at Nightshade's unusual calmness, but then again, the good behavior was often a precursor to a complete rage, knowing Nightshade's mental instability. "Audra." Kobalt whispered. "Don't get too close." He backed a few steps away from his older half-sister as she spoke with the stranger, expecting possible violence from her. He knew Nightshade would never attack him or Audra, but he didn't want to be in the way if she lashed out. Still, he was ready to jump back into the fight if Shetani was thick-headed enough not to comply with all these angry pack members around him.
Lumina and Nox crouched down and crawled to their mother, whom Vixen had managed to calm down. Auri then nuzzled her children and shakily stood up to watch the confrontation. Would Shetani give in, or would he refuse?...
And I shot you down
You never had a chance in hell
And I shot you down
And I felt no remorse cause
This heart's a stranger, and you love it 'cause it's dangerous like yours
Audra & Others
Audra was pissed off, sure, but her mind was still as good as ever. She wanted to know how the hell he kept dodging her planned attacks, she wanted his blood, it shouldn’t be that difficult, especially since he was cornered up. Stop running half-breed It was clear she was beyond angry at this point. However, her mind was still in focus as she attacked over and over. Hearing the howl of her alpha gave her more spirit as she continued on, knowing the alpha was on his way. Skeil scent warned her of the pitbull’s approach along with the sound of her paws, causing her to side step just in time to allow Skeil through to make her attack on Shetani. Whether it worked or not, Audra still went after the bastard that was causing her pack and family so many issues. Hearing Nightshade, she backed up from the wolf, and watched for any surprise attack as she listened before continuing the fight. Yeah, let him submit and die, or fight and die. Licking her chops, she waited knowing already where this mutt was going to end up. Another sound had her glance to see a fierce snake, which let her know this brute was really going to be toast. Kobalt’s whispered voice had her looking to where he stood, slightly beside her, and she gave a nod along with a reassuring smile. Kobalt seemed to have eased her internal rage some.
Vixen stayed with Lumina, Nox, Auri, and Nightshade’s children. It was clear she was ready to protect them all, for she was the closest at the entrance underneath the stairs, and her attention was on the fight. She could see her siblings Falcon, Breeze, and Hedes closing in on the intruder like the others, locking him in, but keeping a safe enough distance from Nightshade and the snake. They were all ready to fight and defend their home and pack, and it was clear from their snarling faces.
Tison, the son of Failure and Nightshade entered the scene quickly, in an all out run. The young adult male had heard Kobalt’s call, and knew his mother would probably already be here. Failure was organizing the group to head out here already, but he had already came here, fear for his mother and anger if anyone harmed her drove him on. He was amazed he had even made it here this fast, but Failure and the rest of the pack wouldn’t be far behind, they were already starting to leave when he took off. Taking one moment to access what was going on, he saw his siblings with some of the lurkers, and his mother in the middle of another group with an non-lurker. Fur from his neck all to the base of his hindquarters were standing up in fury, making him look much like a porcupine. The 150 pound black titan wasn’t playing, especially when it came to his family, and this guy was about to find that out. Yellow orbs cold, he came to stand next to his mother, ready to fight with her if this brute did something as foolish as to attack Nightshade. All hell would break loose then, especially when his father arrived. He knew his father, Failure wouldn’t take a chance with his mate involved, nope he’d go straight in for the kill. No questions, because the victim wouldn’t be alive to answer.
Shetani
Shetani stopped after the other wolves did. He wondered why until he noticed a femme telling them to wait. A growl emanated from his maw as she spoke, though he immediatly stopped as he saw the snake crawl out of her fur. It didn't look friendly either. He knew if he got bit by that, he'd be in trouble. The femme had given him a chance to submit. He looked around. The brute was surrounded by multiple wolves and he sensed more were coming. He growled again. He couldn't submit. Never, never, never. It was the number one thing he hated. But he had to bring his situation to his mind. As much as he hated to submit, if he didn't he'd be dead. He then looked at the wolves around him.
Let me go. I promise I won't come back. I would have no reason to. Why kill me and waste your energy when you could just exile me he barked, his voice ringing through the building. Getting kicked out was way better then submitting in his opinion.
Ninaki & Skeil
Few could charge into the packlands and issue orders that trumped Ninaki's, but Nightshade was one of their allies that the wiry old beta would defer command to in most situations, and she was one that he would trust in a tense predicament as this one. Like their fallen ally Aaka, he knew Nightshade was a no nonsense canine, and so after he gave her a side-look to acknowledge her presence, Ninaki let his bark ring loud and clear through the building, "Lurkers, stand down." The command stopped Skeil, who'd been in enough control of her movements that she wasn't in danger of colliding with Audra, and had pivoted on her hind legs to make a quick counter attack on Shetani. Whether or not she managed to snag a quick bite on him, she heeded Ninaki's new orders and backed off a few steps. But she didn't go far. The white canine stood within lunging distance of Shetani, baring her fangs and snarling quietly to warn him not to try anything.
Now that the fight had come to a tenuous standstill, Ninaki boldly approached Shetani, while leaving room for Nightshade to draw up beside him as well, "We have killed others for committing less against us than you have. Why should we spare your life after you assaulted our family? Why should we trust that you won't return?" If there was any chance of Shetani walking away from this alive, or at least without another all-out fight, Ninaki demanded some good reasoning from the hybrid.
Shetani
Shetani looked at the old dog and nodded to him. He knew, just from the way he ordered the wolves around, that he was one of high rank. He looked into his eyes with his sea blue orbs, the orbs so much like his sister and mother. I won't come back because why would I. I know you already hate me and want me gone. I did not notice you were such a strong pack and I was folish on crossing the borders. I am amazed. You are a strong pack, even though you are made of mostly halfbreeds, which I have respect for, as long as they respect me back. There he glanced at the one that had called him half-breed in the first place then back at Ninaki. And if I did come back. It would probally be to submit, which is very rare of me to do so I probally wouldn't. Unless you want me to join then I won't come back. His eyes widened as he spoke this. He heard something in his own voice. Was it want? Did he want to be in a pack afterall? It had been so long. He shook his head to clear it and looked to his paws. What was wrong with him. He swore to himself he would never join a pack again. He wated for he canine's answer.
Precious slithered on the pipes above them. The albino king snake was watching this whole time and had got more interested in it when she saw another snake come out of the girl canine's fur. She stayed quiet though as she curled tightly around the pipe to not fall.
Kobalt
We choked on street tap water, well I'm gonna have to try the real thing
I took your laugh by the collar and it knew not to swing
Anytime I tried an honest job, well the till had a hole and ha-ha
We laughed about payin' rent 'cause the county jails, they're free
Oh, lucky lucky lucky lucky me again
I said it looks like I've got to use my feet again
Well I just spent my last one-hundred dollars
God I'll pay my bill again
Nightshade had more or less succeeded, in her mind, though she would prefer a fight. However, she had done her job, even if the outcome wasn't enough for her. Shetani would have to endure a penalty for his foolish actions... she was sure of it. She only hoped that Ninaki or Argolis would agree.
Kobalt agreed. He'd like to have Shetani dead, and though he wouldn't make decisions for the Lurkers, but he'd sure as hell voice his opinions.
"What the hell are you talking about, punk?" Kobalt's voice was laced with venom, enough to send a shiver down the average individual's spine. The silvery-blue-highlighted white wolf stalked forward, but placed himself between Shetani and Audra. "Why should we just let you go after how you messed around with us? You got yourself into this shit, son, and you've got to pay the price. This will not go unpunished." At this moment, he offered a quick, questioning glance to Ninaki, but never fully let Shetani out of his sight. "Ninaki, I think we should take him captive. See what Argolis wants to do with him. We shouldn't let him just walk away. Not after what he's done. He won't even tell us his name!" A snarl was directed at Shetani. "I think he's got something to hide. It wouldn't surprise me on bit if he's got ties to the Nuova Alba." A dark look fell upon his chilling yellow eyes as his fangs were flashed. "Or worse." A pause followed this, and he finished his statement with a particular hatred and rage. "He's with Saydin." His voice was lowered; loud enough for Shetani, Ninaki, Audra, Nightshade and others in proximity to hear, but quiet enough that Auri wouldn't hear. His ailing sister didn't need to be worried anymore, especially now that Shetani had sent her into a panic. What Auri really needed was to see Desmon, but Kobalt wasn't sure where to look. For the time being, though, he had this pressing matter to deal with.
Oh, I don't care
Oh, how I just don't care
Well, King Rat has me on his list again
I can never be on the fence again
I found out it's all loud
Open like an organ and it
Talk, talk, talk, talk again
He promised me that when I cheated him
But I could open my eye, well...
Lucky, lucky, lucky, lucky, lucky,
lucky, lucky, lucky, lucky, lucky me again
I hardly knew I should use my feet again
What do you have to say for yourself?
What do you have to say for yourself?
Audra & Others
Audra heard his growl, and would have leapt forward if not for respect for Nightshade and knowing Kobalt probably would try to stop her. That and Ninaki’s orders to stop fighting for now. However, a snarl still ripped itself from her throat, and even had the courage to growl again. If he did it one more time, she wasn’t sure what she’d do, and the wolfess knew she wouldn’t be the only one. After he spoke, she was quick to reply, her feminine melody filled with rage. Why should we let you go? You could cause us problems, or worse try to kill us! He should die, now. Silent now, she watched as their aging beta went up to Shetani, something she didn’t like, the bastard could try to harm their elderly pack member. Listening to Ninaki’s words, she agreed with him, and doubted the stranger was going to get out of this situation alive. After Shetani answered Ninaki, she was quick to voice her own opinions, showing the fear inside of her that she refused to show in her face.
To kill us, to get revenge on us, that’s why you might come back. We hate you because you attacked us, harmed our members, when we only tried to help you, you bastard. You should be amazed, your lucky we haven’t killed you yet. Our pack may be half-breeds, but we are way better than you. I have no respect for you, nor will I ever. You bring half-breeds a bad name. We won‘t want you to come back, I wouldn‘t want to call you a pack member of mine. Jewels looked to Kobalt when he spoke, and she could he was angry, down right pissed off. His silvery blue white form came forth between her and Shetani, and she found herself taking a step forth so she could rest her maw on his back, to let him know she was there too. That she was glad he felt the need to protect her, even if it wasn’t needed. Staring at the intruder, she wished she could sink her fangs in his throat. Audra remained mostly silent as Kobalt spoke, until he mentioned taking him captive or who he might be with. The ideas nearly drove her fear home, and she found her head shaking before she even managed to lift it off Kobalt’s form. He could kill us in our sleeping. Brainwash our children. Especially if he‘s with the Nuova Alba or Saydin. I say we kill him now, he‘s too much of a threat to us. If a wolf knew Audra, like her packmates only, they would be able to detect the hint of fear on her. Fury pounded through her too though, making her want this stranger’s blood, to know that he was dead before he could hurt one of them.
Tison heard the brute growl at his mother, and at this point he was ready to attack right them. A harsh sound came from his throat, a mix between a growl and snarl, warning the male he had better treat Nightshade with respect before he lost his throat. He was damn lucky Failure wasn’t here, cause his father would of attacked then and there. In fact he could scent his dad in the air now, and a few moments later he appeared with whoever else in the pack came with him. Failure had left his younger children, the teens and his adopted younger ones from his mate’s rape, with Artemis and her children. The black brute felt like this was no place for youngsters. Silent, he moved to stand with Nightshade, quite close to Shetani, who he wasted no time in baring fangs at. Emotionless orbs stared at the brute in a come on, I dare you way, making it clear he was in no mood for bullshit. One more wrong move, just one more, and there would be no mercy, nothing but death.
Vixen didn’t want Auri’s pups to see killing or anymore fighting, and Auri shouldn’t either in her state. Auri, come on, lets get you and the pups upstairs, ok? Everyone will be fine, there are too many members for him to cause anymore trouble. The huntress was determined, and didn’t wait too long for an answer. A fight could break out at any moment. Attempting to pick Nox up, she would of lead the way, expecting Auri to pick up the other youngster. Being careful, the female would of climbed up the steps to place Nox inside of a room, where she could still see down below, in case she was needed. Looking to Auri, she waited to see if her friend and pack member would need help getting up here.
Ninaki & Skeil
The words of his packmates were all taken into silent consideration by the beta. He weight the pros and cons of what he heard, and judged them based on experiences he had had in the past. They had taken captives before, so Koblat's suggestion was seriously contemplated by the brown and black hybrid, and yet it was cautioned when Audra voiced reservations about the idea. It was true, with pups in the pack, a dangerous adversary like Shetani could be a serious danger, and he recalled on more than one occasion when their past prisoners had caused more trouble than they were worth keeping. It was a tough call, yet one thing was clear - he was not going to simply let Shetani walk free after this assault. To do so would betray the fierce name of the Lurkers, and betray the feelings of his packmates who had voiced their snarling opinions over the brute's fate.
The old hybrid did not let his feral eyes slip from Shetani's. His ears swiveled to catch the words of the others, giving each of them his attention before he spoke at length, "Auri, Vixen is right. You and your children should go upstairs. Pirqua, scout the city for Desmon and send him up with her." Nevermind his frail state, Ninaki wanted to get the other vulnerable members out of the room first. When he spoke next, his eyes were narrowed and his long, tawny brown muzzle was wrinkled back into a snarl that showed off a set of worn, discolored teeth. And though his voice lacked the luster it once carried, it was still chilling to hear when he spoke in the low growl that he did now, "For your assault on our family, you will not be allowed to walk freely. Our leader Argolis will ultimately determine your fate, and since he is not here at the present, you will be held in the Den until his arrival. Audra, Kobalt, Skeil - I want you to escort our prisoner to oe of the rooms on the second level, where he cannot escape. Disable one of his legs." 'Disable' was quite the term, and open to interpretation; it could be something as simple as giving one limb a few good bites, to something as dramatic as breaking bones. "Do whatever else you must to ensure that he does not escape, and that he is not a threat to others."
Shetani
Shetani listened to the other canines around him speak about his fate. They all tried to convince the leader it seems to not let him go. Though he didn't let his cold gaze waver from the old canine in front of him, he still let out low growls at their arguments. None of these appealed him. Nor did him any good.
When the old canine spoke, he straightened and listened intently, wanting to hear what they were going to do with them. It seemed he wasn't going to get out of this the way he wanted to. He wasn't allowed to leave. Though he did have a chance. He would meet with the alpha later. At least he wasn't going to get killed. That he had to be grateful for. Another growl escaped his muzzle as Ninaki said to 'disable' one of his legs. He did not like that at all. Especially if any of these canines did it. They would make sure to break it.
Despite his dislike in the verdict that Ninaki choose, he bowed his head to the other. Thank you for not killing me. he mumbled to him. Though I would prefere you not to 'disable' my leg. I would not be as stupid as to try and escape a den that is highly guarded. I will go where you want me to go until your alpha comes. he barked. He kept his head bowed though he looked up at Ninaki. Even though he was disrespectful most of the time, he still held respect for elders. Especially this one, to stand up to a healthy male like him in lunging distance. Though he did have his whole pack behind him he still felt it as admirable.
Kobalt & Others
Kobalt's eyes flashed around the den ass he listened to every suggestion, thinking carefully about them. Audra's statement made sense to him. He wanted to have pups, and he realized that he didn't want a criminal around them. They should grow up without any bad influences.
"I'd love to end it right here," Kobalt agreed, nodding to Audra, "and as much as I would like that, we should see what Argolis wants to do." His attention was then directed toward Ninaki as the elder spoke his words of wisdom. A half-smirk appeared on his muzzle. "Good thinking, Ninaki." He turned to face Shetani, about to snap at one of his legs, until the trespasser spoke. "Well, you were stupid enough to invade our territory and attack us in the first place, so why should we expect you not to be stupid enough to attempt an escape?" Giving Shetani little time to respond, Kobalt swiftly lunged toward the prisoner, attempting to break a bone - or at least injure the leg enough to keep Shetani from getting very far - in one fierce bite.
Auri, trying to distance herself from the fight both physically and emotionally, kept her focus on her children and Vixen. She really wished Desmon and their other two children between him and her were here. She wanted to know that they were safe. Her ears perked up when Vixen spoke, and when Ninaki addressed her as well. The hybrid nodded, but said nothing for now. She simply picked Lumina up when Vixen carried Nox. Shakily walking up the stairs, stopping for breath every now and then, she eventually reached the second floor and set her daughter down. Auri flopped down next to her pups and peered up at Vixen. "I was exposed to war, violence, death... I was exposed to them as a pup." A soft sigh left her muzzle. "I never wished the same for my children, but they've already seen too much." Nox, after being set down, walked slowly toward his mother and nuzzled her. He had wished he didn't see any of that violence either, but it couldn't be erased. The images were there forever, playing again and again in his mind. The memories could not be forgotten.
Audra & Others
Audra watched as Ninaki thought over the situation, and it was clear the female didn’t like it. At this point she might become stressed out enough to actually start crying. Or worse, go into a rage and kill Shetani for causing this all this trouble. The silence was only broken by Shetani’s growls of resentment to some of the ideas. Turning her head in his direction, she bared her fangs at him in a clear shut the fuck up manner. This brute was really starting to get under her skin, and if he continued she wasn’t sure what she would do. Chocolate orbs narrowing she sent a deadly glare in his direction to let him know this wasn’t over. She would talk with Ninaki and Argolis, try to get them to see reason. Could they really take a chance having him here, when he could kill or corrupt their young? A glance was shot to Lumina and Nox, what if they were harmed in this situation. Looking to Kobalt, with worry in her orbs she wondered what the verdict would be. Kobalt spoke to her, saying that he agreed with her earlier statement and she gave him a small smile. He was comforting under this situation, allowing her to calm down slightly.
The silvery goddess didn’t have to wait long for an answer, one that didn’t please her in the least. She wouldn’t dare challenge the elderly beta though, she had to much respect for him to do that. The brute was to stay, with a broken leg until Argolis returned to give the final judgment. Kobalt spoke next to her saying it was a good idea, and it was, but Audra still couldn’t help but think they wouldn’t be safe until he was dead. As Shetani growled at Ninaki for saying to break his leg, a very cold and vicious snarl escaped from the small goddess. Do it again, and I’ll break both of them you stupid mother fucker. How hard was it to tell she was getting more pissed by the minute? Not hard at all, and if he didn’t get a chill pill the lass wouldn’t be responsible for what she did. When she was ordered to escort the brute upstairs with Kobalt and Skeil, she took a position at the prisoner’s side, ready to tear into him if he made a mistake. Besides he even added to do whatever it took to keep him a threat for others, something the young adult fea would take very seriously. As the brute apologized she had to cut off a short sarcastic yeah right from coming through. Of course he didn’t want him to disable his leg, tough shit though. It was either that or death on the spot. Audra would prefer the latter, and there was still a high chance for it. His small act of respect wasn’t bullshitting her, he already tried to harm, control, and disrespected all of them especially their elders. A nod of agreement was given after Kobalt spoke, saying what she pretty much already thought. In silence she waited for the sound of his leg bone breaking as Kobalt lunged forward.
Vixen looked to Ninaki when he addressed Auri, telling her that she should follow her upstairs. As she was leading the way, she could still detect the beta’s next words and the chilling growl that came with it. The huntress never expected such a sound from him, and it caused a shiver down her spine. Placing Nox down gently in a room nearby, she waited for Auri to join them with Lumina. Her ears pricked up when she heard her friend’s voice after she laid down and looked up at her. It was clear that the other huntress had had a hard life, one full of many tragic things. Something she never wanted for her children, but Auri said they saw too much already. Her orbs watered up for a moment, and she had to close her eyes to keep them from falling because her pack member needed her to be strong. How to calm her, ease her mind when little Nox seemed to understand so much already? The little male pup seemed like a grown up teen trying to ease his mother’s comfort when he nuzzled her. It tore at her heart.
Auri…life’s harsh, they will have to learn anyways. It’s how they learn, and who guides them that matters. You and Desmon are guiding them, perfect teachers in my eyes, who else can show them love, trust, compassion, the beauty in life? There’s so much more good than the bad, that’s what has to be focused upon.
Long pillars carried her forth as she moved to be beside Auri and the pups. Settling down beside the distressed femme to give her comfort, she sent a encouraging smile to the pups to let them know everything would be okay. Everything had to be okay.
Ninaki & Skeil
The blood of his packmates was strong in his nose, and the sight of innocent pups and their traumatized mother was burned in his mind. Those things alone were compelling enough to drive the beta to tear this beast's throat out, especially having watched his own mate and two of his children die at the fangs of past enemies. Yet Ninaki relented only by the most tenuous of reasons, sparing Shetani's life for a few minutes longer until Argolis could have the final say. "Don't be mistaken, I am not doing this out of kindness." The wolfdog's show of respect earned little but cold words and an unwavering stare from the old beta, "What you would prefer or not prefer is not open to discussion. The moment you attack our pack you waived those rights." Shetani would find no leniency from Ninaki, and the old hybrid refused to budge on his orders. He merely nodded to the three he'd selected to guard their prisoner, giving them the go ahead to continue on - and to use force, if needed.
Skeil was ready to sink her fangs into the intruder's flesh, but she gave Kobalt the pleasure instead, since he'd been among the first to respond to and deal with Shetani. While the white furred dog held off with physical aggression, she did growl along with Audra, "The second you try anything funny, I'll split your belly open so quick, you'll get the pleasure of seeing all your insides before you die." She too waited for the satisfying crunch of bone, if Kobalt succeeded in breaking Shetani's leg; and whether it was that or a mangled leg, the pit bull nodded her blunt muzzle roughly at the steps, "On with you, trespasser. Up the stairs."
Shetani
Shetani let a small growl escape him as the hybrid lundged at his leg. He stepped back quickly, but not enough for the canine to miss. A whine escaped his maw as the other sunk his tools into his flesh of his front right leg. He tried to pull it out of the other's maw but couldn't. A growl escaped him as he pulled harder, wanting to get his leg out of his jaw before he put pressure on it and broke it. He felt his flesh tearing from the other's grip on it but he still struggled. The brute listened to the other's speaking to him, not giving him any respect, though he didn't care. He just glared at each and every one of them with his sea blue luminaries.
Shetani was tempted to bite into the brute's neck but resisted, knowing that would only cause more trouble. He looked at the female dog. Tell him to let go and I would be able to. He glanced at Kobalt who was clamped onto his leg. Oh. And for your information. My name is Shetani. Not trespasser.
Kobalt & Others
Seeing that his swift bite was met with success, Kobalt pulled back, casting a passing glance at Audra and Skeil before barking viciously at Shetani. "Get upstairs, little rat!!!" But Shetani's next words caught him by surprise; his response to Skeil's command was about to drive him over the edge. "What the hell do you mean 'tell him to let go'?!?!" The massive hybrid snarled, considering he was not grasping onto Shetani. "If you think you're funny, look around you. Nobody's laughing. Now GO!" He gave a warning snap at Shetani in an attempt to speed him up the stairs. The intruder stating his name prompted Kobalt to grumble and shake his head. "It's too late for that, trespasser. We told you to tell us your name, but you just decided to be a smart ass. Audra, Skeil and I might be able to come up with a nickname for you. How about 'Half-Breed?'" A snarky chuckle left his mouth. "Good enough, huh?" He suggested, glancing at Skeil and Audra for their opinion on it. As far as he was concerned, Shetani had no say in it. As Ninaki said, the trespasser's rights were waived when he waltzed in and attacked.
Auri's golden eyes once again stared up at Vixen, a smile sneaking onto her face. "You know..." the hybrid began, "...I think you're right." She nuzzled Nox back, then stood up and walked toward Vixen. "And come to think of it, you are also a great role model for the pups. Would you mind..." She paused, thinking briefly before speaking up again, "...being their nanny, or perhaps their teacher, or maybe another role model to aid me and Desmon? They really seem to like you, and I'm sure you could aid in teaching them about the world... about the good things in life." Nox had already taken a liking to Vixen and saw her as a great authority figure, and Lumina also loved being around Vixen. As far as the pups were concerned, Vixen was family.
Audra & Others
Audra was silent as Ninaki spoke to Shetani, his voice cold as he basically told the wolf he had no rights. At his nod, she snarled at the loner to let him know he better get moving. Skeil, the elderly female pack member, told the trespasser if he tried anything funny she would deal with him while Audra was thinking the same thing. The fool’s whine was music to hers that let her know Kobalt’s lunge had been successful. Now she waited for the sound of his pillar breaking, because if he managed to escape it by the struggling he was putting up, than Audra would do it herself once she got them upstairs. The goddess patience was thin, so thin that one more than this guy did wrong would probably break it. Kobalt let go of the brute’s leg, and ordered him upstairs. She had lost it once already and the next time she may not get it back in time without killing him. His disrespectful words to Skeil and tone of correctness was enough to drive her to action. Without warning, without sound, she struck like a snake would upon its prey. Being at the guy’s side, and his attention in front of him on Kobalt probably gave her the perfect chance to pierce her fangs into his side in reprimand. About the whole time she was doing that, Kobalt reacted enough to voice himself to show he was pissed off and that Shetani had no future career as a comedian. What followed next was her pack mate telling the prisoner what he should have done, and asking if they should just call him Half-Breed. Audra’s words were quick to follow, as her soft and compelling voice filled the air.
Good enough until we can call him “Corpse” or “Carcass”. At this point, once they got him in the room he was to stay in, she moved to face him. I don’t want to hear another word out of you, unless asked, or I will either rip your tongue out or kill you. Whichever happens first. This is where she would have stuck her face in his personal area near his own. And if you don’t believe me, then fucking try it, I dare you.
Something this guy should realize, and realize fast was that she didn’t play, and she wasn’t now. Her orbs have become cold, daring, and ruthless as she made it clear there would be no hesitation on her part. Repercussions for killing him would just have to be damned. No stranger was going to come in here and disrespect her fellow pack members or threaten them. She would see them dead first, something this guy was about to experience first hand if he didn’t learn his place really fast.
Falcon remained downstairs with Ninaki to wait for Argolis, while Breeze and Hedes went upstairs to mull about incase the prisoner tried anything. For the moment they stayed away from the room, but remained in ear shot.
Vixen smiled back at Auri as she realized her friend had calmed down now. Auds pricked when she spoke, saying that she thought Vixen was right, before she approached. What surprise her the most, was that her pack member continued on to say she was a great role model, and though she wouldn’t boost it she was. Waiting to see what Auri wanted she smiled, to encourage the femme to speak her mind. Nanny? Banner wagging, she nodded once before her friend even finished speaking. She cared for the young ones, like they were her young, and knew she would do her best to help raise Nox and Lumina.
I would love to be their nanny. Thank you Auri.
Ninaki & Skeil
Ninaki had stood silent and still as the three progressed towards the stairs. There was no chastisement from the beta when his three pack members snapped back with words - and in Audra's case, with fangs - when Shetani copped back attitude. As far as he was concerned, Ninaki wouldn't mind if the intruder was killed by their fangs before Argolis arrived, and would gladly defend their actions to the alpha, such was his ire towards Shetani and his continued disrespect to the pack. He had always held a hardlined view of anyone who threatened the Lurkers, and only his respect of Argolis' authority had kept him from ordering an immediate death sentence. Once the four had made it up the steps and into the room, Ninaki sat down heavily at the base of the stairs. "Auri, are you and the children alright?"
Making her way upstairs with the others, Skeil had a very hard time holding back and not giving Shetani a piece of her mind, via a swift bite to his flank. She took grim satisfaction out of Audra's attack instead, and eagerly joined in with her and Kobalt's threatening insults, "Best listen to my friends, or you'll find out all too late that they do not bluff. You are far from the first flea-bag that we've had to dispose of around here." Once the four of them had reached the room upstairs, Skeil positioned herself squarely in the center of the doorway, blocking any easy escape for Shetani if he tried to bolt.
Shetani
The brute glared as the male snapped at him. Though he didn’t retort. If he had any chance of surviving this ordeal, he should shut up. But Kobalt’s next words made anger boil in his stomach. When the word ‘Half-Breed’ reached his ears, a low, menacing growl emanated from the back of his throat. Though he kept moving towards the stairs. Before he barely took a step though, the female on his right, Audra he though they called her, snapped at his side. Not expecting the attack at all, he yelped at her sharp canines pierced his skin. He instinctively twisted and tried to bite back. But he realized quickly and stopped short, snapping his jaws on air. If the female didn’t move from his snap, his fangs would have been maybe an inch from her skin before he stopped himself.
With another low growl, he hurried up the stair, limping on his paw a bit. Shetani went into the room and immediately laid down on the ground. He had started licking his wound when Audra went right in his face. She warned him not to speak unless spoken to and to not piss her off. He could tell she was one that snapped easily. So he didn’t push her and just continued licking his leg and twisting to lick his side. He really hoped their pack leader came soon. The brute didn’t want to wait with these bastards near him.
Argolis & Others
Planted in the doorway, Skeil didn't let her eyes off of Shetani for one second. Sitting there with her white fur and scarred hide against the cold cement floor, the female almost wished that their captive would try something, just to give her an excuse to put fangs to his flesh. Shetani proved wiser than that though, by keeping to himself and holding his tongue now, which at least spared him from any further retort or snaps from Skeil, and likely from the others as well.
It didn't take long before the group might hear the heavy steps of Argolis jaunting into the den, his black claws clacking against the ground with each step he took. A few words passed between him and Ninaki that were too low for the others to hear clearly, but the tone in which the alpha spoke was unmistakably furious. A few seconds later, the metal stairs creaked as the 130-pound brute stormed up them and moved stiff-legged towards the room where the prisoner was being held. Skeil immediately got up and backed out of his way. "Hmmph, look at what we have here." Argolis said as he stepped past the doorway and fitted a pair of bright, brooding yellow eyes on Shetani, "So you're the one that's caused so much trouble why I was away?" The alpha's deep, authorative voice matched his bristling, confident posture and the tail that was held high in the air, giving no doubts that he was the one in charge here.
Audra & Others
Audra stayed right where she was, for the main part that if he returned the attack, he would be dead that instant. His continuous snarls and growls were really pissing her off that if he met her gaze, her orbs would hold deadly intentions for Shetani. His yelp was music to her ears, but his barely stopped return attack had her almost ripping into his hide again. There was true hate coming off her, this guy was a threat, an opponent to her, and so hell yeah she was snapping easily. Skeil joined in with her own words after Audra did, saying that he’d better listen to them and telling him about the past imbeciles who came along and didn’t make it back out to tell the story. The femora noticed the way Skeil took a stand at the door, making it obvious the brute wouldn’t be able to escape. The trespasser seemed to be getting smart, for he didn’t reply to her warning, simply continued to lick his wounds like a good little boy. Audra looked to the door when she heard Argolis making his way up the stairs, and Skeil moved out of the way to let the alpha in. Or should she say furious alpha. After all, it was obvious from his appearance and tone, even though his words weren’t that way just yet. Audra, a simple member, decided to remain quiet unless Argolis asked for her account or her opinion, which should be obvious from the murderous appearance on her face. However she remained near Argolis and the problem maker.
Falcon saw Argolis returned, but allowed Ninaki to explain everything instead. Breeze stayed upstairs incase someone needed help, while Hedes went downstairs to patrol the territory they owned for any other trouble. Falcon left with him incase he needed help.
Vixen heard Ninaki’s voice calling up the stairs, asking about Auri and the pups. Rising to her paws she came to the start of the staircase, so Auri wouldn’t have to leave the pups, and called back down in a normal voice. They’re fine Ninaki, I’m watching over them. There was no need to ask, it was obvious Vixen wouldn’t let anything happen to the small family. Her form soon disappeared back into the room, her steps mostly silent incase the young ones happened to fall asleep. Her form was almost inside when a familiar scent caught her attention, and she turned around to see Argolis talking with Ninaki. A grin was giving in greeting, along with a respected nod, as he passed by her to deal with the guy from earlier. She wasn’t sure if he would notice, and continued back into the room just a few minutes after to care for Auri and the pups.
Shetani
Shetani took note of the female blocking the door way. They shouldn't even. He wasn't going anywhere with his injured leg. Even if he tried, he wouldn't be able to go that far. His ears twitched as the stairs creaked outside and another wolf came into the room. Just be his posture and the intensity in his gaze, the brute immediatly knew this was the alpha. He stopped licking and repositioned himself so he faced the alpha, then he pushed himself up into a sitting position and shook himself slightly, splashing his red liquid a bit. He tilted his head to the alpha, in respect. Still looking at the floor, his voice rang out in the room. "I will not lie to you, alpha. I am the one that cause trouble in your pack. I hope you will allow me to explain myself. If not, then you should at least know my name. My name is Shetani, brother to the wolf hybrid Taru, which I do not know if she is alive, and I am also a loner, wandering where I want." He glanced upward at the alpha and waited for his responce.
Argolis & Others
Black lips were peeled back to show off his gleaming row of canines, a not so subtle warning to Shetani that he was in a royal mood. The respect that the hybrid attempt to show him didn't get Shetani far unfortunately, as Argolis' next words and action proved, "You will show me proper respect! On your stomach, worm!" The words came out in a bellow of rage that cut over the wolfdog's explanation before he'd quite finished speaking. Following directly after this outburst, Argolis lunged forward to gnash his fangs against Shetani's muzzle, in an attack that would leave the other's snout and face bloody unless he ducked out of the way and dropped to his belly to show further submission to the alpha. Argolis's eyes narrowed more fiercely, "For the sake of your continued existence, you'd better speak quickly and pray to your Ancestors that you've got a good explanation for the damage you've caused my pack." The alpha took another step forward, putting himself into Shetani's personal space, until his hot breath washed against the enemy.
Skeil watched this all with cold regard, feeling just as strongly as Audra did about it. For all that she wanted to take a bite out of Shetani though, it appeared that their hot-blooded alpha had things pretty well under control at this point.
Kobalt; Nightshade; Auri; Juliet
Kobalt's bulky frame looked even larger with his white, blue-gray tinted fur standing on end. He stood near Audra, his teeth were bared at Shetani, and he licked his lips every now and then to clean off the drool caused by his pure fury. While he knew Audra could hold her own against the trespasser, he wanted to give her some aid. He didn't want to be "just friends," anyway; he truly did love the wolfess. He saw Audra as a caring but tough individual, and her personality was the main thing that he found attractive. "Alright, Shetani," he began, "you're going to respect us, got it? None of the "bad boy" bullshit. You leave that at the door." He lifted his head up in a regal, "in charge" sort of position, addressing Shetani once again. "Listen to my darling - you don't talk unless we give you permission." It took him a second to realize that he referred to Audra as his "darling." When it occurred to him that he used that term, he looked at Audra with a surprised look, then an embarrassed look, like the equivalent of a human blushing, and he lowered his head with a shifty look, but also a slight smile.
Nightshade soon followed Argolis up the stairs and into the room where Shetani was kept. She glanced at Kobalt - her half-brother - and Audra with a slight grin at Kobalt's surprise and embarrassment. He was so much like their father. So much like Kahvi. The thought of their murdered father was almost unbearable to her, and she choked back tears. She felt like she could have stopped it. She knew it was her fault - Kahvi loved Nightshade more than his unstable mate, Saydin, which ultimately led to Saydin coldbloodedly murdering Kahvi right in front of his young children. Auri had taken it the worst, though; she was a timid canine.
Nightshade shook her head, trying to rid herself of the thought, then stopped by the door while keeping a cold, watchful gaze on the trespasser. "Argolis." The coywolf addressed the Lurker King in a neutral but respectful tone. "Perhaps we could call together a council to determine what to do with the mutt."
The faint sound of a squeaky, chirpy meow came from an old box in the corner of the room, and a large, lean tortoiseshell cat jumped out of the box. The timid feline, Juliet, stayed in the corner, her gold-green eyes fixed on Shetani. "Don't come near my box!" The Lurker scout yowled at Shetani, arching her back while her tail puffed up and dorsal hair stood on end out of both fear and annoyance.
Auri looked up at Ninaki from where she laid on the cold ground. "Yes, sir." The coywolf's voice was low, as her two pups had fallen asleep next to her. Lumina and Nox looked almost as they were hugging each other in their sleep, but Nox quickly started twitching and yelping as he slept, apparently in the middle of a nightmare. However, Lumina, now half-awake, licked her brother's face. Nox slowly calmed down, back to being quiet and relaxed.
"He's been having nightmares a lot lately," Auri began, "but he won't tell me what they're about. When I ask him, he starts whimpering and just walks away and hides. Poor thing. I feel like there's nothing I can do." She then turned her attention to Vixen. "Perhaps he will tell you, Vixen. He feels very safe around you." There was a bit of sorrow in her voice. A soft sigh came from Auri as she lowered her head and rested it on her paws.
Audra & others
Audra was watchful of the prisoner, her rage never decreasing as he proved more and more incompetent. When Argolis arrived, he had the nerve to simply quit cleaning himself and rose into a sitting position. How dare he even try to rise to the alpha’s height, and his bow only seemed to mock her ruler even more. At least that’s how the goddess took it. By the end of his words, she was at his face, not really even noticing what she was doing. The lass was too much in a rage, his words had only egged her on more.
You just don’t wander where you please, bitch. That’s what got you in this place now.
She was so mad that she barely managed to get the words out, and she couldn’t quite stop the spit that came from her mouth. When she realized what she had done, she glanced to Argolis with an apologizing glance before returning to her original spot. Argolis words filled the air as he demanded proper respect of Shetani. She hoped his attack was successful, because the half blood seemed too stupid to miss it. This brute couldn’t argue his way out of this issue, and Audra just knew he was going to do. If only it could be by her fangs. Her anger was growing to the point where she was starting to visibly shake. The demoness figured if she didn’t calm down she would have to be forced from the room to keep from killing him. A glance was given to Kobalt, who stood next to her, who obviously shared her fury from the way he stood and looked. His voice and presence helped her to calm down, at least just enough to stop the shaking. The titan’s said for Shetani to behave and listen to her. Her breath caught at the my darling, but she soon calmed back down to smile at him when he looked to her surprised. With a paw step to the side she brought their forms close enough so that their pelts brushed. She felt the same way about him, he was a strong individual who was loyal to his family and pack. It didn’t hurt that she saw him as handsome too, not that she mainly judged him from that.
The scent of a newcomer had her looking to the door to see Nightshade enter. On normal circumstances she would have gone to greet the female who was related to Kobalt, but now all she could bring herself to do was nod. Although it did look like something was bothering Nightshade, but she didn’t know what would happen if she left the comfort of Kobalt’s side. Her attention went back to the night colored coywolf as she spoke to Argolis, saying they should call a council. Council or not, this brute was going to be killed, he defied them and attacked them. Juliet, the cat from earlier and now a member of the Lurkers, appeared from a box. Shit, she should of remembered the scouting cat made a home in this room. Perhaps she should calm her down by being protective. All members, even feline, were taken care of here after all. Her voice was cold and words short in number, but full of meaning.
Touch her and your dead.
Vixen smiled at the sleeping forms as Auri answered for herself to Ninaki, saying yes. The young were so innocent and sleep, although she felt remorse when Nox sleep became troubled. With Auri’s motherly touch he soon calmed down, and Vixen found herself looking to her friend for answers. Nightmares? So young and yet already too old for the world. Poor thing. When said he might speak to her, she found her gaze locking with Auris’ own as she said he felt safe around her. It seemed like Auri needed a motherly touch herself, except hers’ wasn’t the type to give it. Leaning her head forward a little, she gently began to lick the top of her head. She hoped her mate would return soon, so she could get his help as well. There was only so much she could do. I’ll try to talk to him, if you would like. She spoke in between comforting licks, referring to Nox.
Shetani
Shetani was immediately cut off by the alpha yelling at him to show him respect and get on his stomach. What kind of pissed him off was that he called him worm. Though he didn’t have time to think about that. Right after this alpha barked at him, he lunged at his muzzle. Since the brute had been watching the alpha, he was able to duck, sliding his paws until he was full out laying on the floor. No way was he getting another injury for such a stupid confrontation. ”Ok!! Ok.” Backing away from the alpha a bit, still on his belly, his lyrics flowed off his tongue and through the air. His whole attention was on the alpha, not even noticing the cat that told him to not go near her box, or Audra, Kobalt or any of the canines in the room.
” I’ll start with how this whole thing started. Me trespassing. I did not know that this was owned by a pack. Maybe I would of if I stopped at the border, but I didn’t. I ran straight into this building. But I had a reason. I was being chased by a two-leg. I’ve had been in this concrete jungle that the two-legs made for a couple of days and in that time, couldn’t catch anything. So I improvised. I scented meat and blood and followed it. Turned out to be a building where the two-legs come and get there meet. There was so much in there, I thought they wouldn’t notice if I took a piece. Turns out they did. And this two-leg started chasing me to get the meat back. I don’t see why. They have enough in that building to feed a pack and more. I stopped for a second in front of this building, but I didn’t scent the borders because the meat was blocking out any other scent. Plus I got scared when that damn two-leg pulled out a gun and shot at me. I panicked and ran into this place. The two-leg followed so I kept running. Luckily, and I appreciate her for doing this, another canine, I think her name was Auri since the others called her that, came and helped me scare the two-leg away.
“After, I didn’t say thank you to her because I was starving. I started eating. Like I said, I didn’t know this was owned by a pack. I thought she was a random stray that decided to help me. Only when the other three canines came over and started growling at me did I understand. And yes, I growled back. I do not tolerate canines growling at me. But before I could say anything to them, the girl, Audra I think, attacked me. I defended myself. I was able to get her pinned and I was able to explain. But they still didn’t believe me. That was when the canine, Kobalt I think was his name, though I’m not sure, called me a half-breed.” He almost growled out the words. Oh how he hated those two words. ”And I don’t like being called half-breed. In wolf packs, I was shunned for it, so I hate it. I lost control, I’ll admit. I attacked him. He had no right to call me a half-breed when he was one himself. I’ll admit it that that was probably when things weren’t in my favor at all. The old canine, which seemed to be the leader at the time, though I now know it’s you, told them to attack then.
“We fought for a bit. Then this black femme came up, with a snake crawling in her fur, and told the others to give me a chance to explain myself. With that chance, I did. I told them they could let me go. They could let me go and exile me. The old canine once again stood up. Told them to stand down and questioned me, asking me if they could trust me to not come back. I told them I wouldn’t cause there is no point in coming back. If I was to come back, it would be to submit, which I rarely do and probably wouldn’t do. I told the old canine that, only if they wanted me to join, would I stay, other than that I would leave. Then that Kobalt suggested that they take me captive. Something about how I was with Nuova Alba. Then he said something about me being with Saydin. I assure you that I have no idea who or what those are. I am new to this valley. I came from far away. The old canine then made the decision to keep me captive until you came so you could decide my fate. I did not mean to trespass and I apologize for attacking your pack. I should not have. I lost my temper when I was called half-breed. I see that your pack is strong. I have told my end of the story. Do what you want with me.”
While telling his story, the brute came to realize how stupid he had been. This all could have been avoided if he had not attacked Kobalt for calling him a half-breed. Before that, he had a chance to be let go for just trespassing by accident. After that, it was impossible. His gaze had not been on the alpha for the whole story but now he gazed up at the alpha of this powerful pack. His audits were perked, listening for what the alpha would do to him. Once again, his whole attention was on the alpha, not on anyone else but him.
Argolis & Others
A low, consistent rumble emanated from the depths of Argolis' deep chest, like the roll of distant thunder that never seemed to end. When he spoke, that low, reverberating growl rose and accented his words, "I've got this under control." This was not so much for Shetani, but to Audra, Kobalt, and Juliet, as a curt reminder for all of them to back off and let him deal with the trespasser first. On a smaller note, it also served as a pointer for Shetani not to make any foolish moves right now, such as back talking his pack members, or having a go at their feline. "I'll have a word with you momentarily, Nightshade." The coywolf got a reply that was slightly less snarly, yet it was still clear from the hybrid's tones that he was short on temper right now, and perhaps a bit high on ego.
When Shetani went down on his belly and scooted back a bit, Argolis took a step forward, not allowing their prisoner the luxury of putting distance between himself and the dark brindle alpha. He kept his bared fangs and narrowed eyes hovering a few scant inches from the blue-eyed wolfdog, as a constant visual reminder that he was one snap away from being savaged and torn to shreds, should he make one wrong move. For the entire story that Shetani recounted in the following minutes, he would have to endure Argolis standing right there, his livid, feral gaze sizing him up like a piece of meat, while his sharply pointed ears took in and judged ever word spoken. When at last Shetani had gotten to the end of his explanation and looked up at Argolis, the alpha took a few long moments to silently gather his thoughts and mull over his feelings about the story before his jaws parted and he spoke. "What you are telling me is that this was all an innocent blunder? That you happened by chance to run into the Lurker's Den, bringing humans into our home?" Right from the get-go, his growling undertones dripped with sarcasm, strongly suggesting that he didn't believe Shetani was telling the full truth. And perhaps that's because Kobalt had brought up the Nuova Alba, as Shetani mentioned. "Even if this was a simple 'accident', do you think it fair that I let you go after you showed disrespect to my family, and brought the danger of two-leggers into our home?" It was a set of rhetorical questions from Argolis, who never gave Shetani the chance to respond to him before he was flashing a brief glance at Audra and Kobalt. "Tell me, how much of this story is true? And what reason do we have to believe he might be a spy from one of our enemies?"
Skeil remained back by the door, where she'd scooted aside to give Nightshade room. The old canine had opinions that she wanted to share, but given Argolis' current mood, she didn't dare speak out of turn, lest she incite his wrath. Instead, she confided in Kobalt's half-sister with a quiet whisper, "At the very least, he should be executed. But if he's a spy... it would benefit both of our packs to interrogate him for information."
Kobalt & Others
Kobalt's ever-watchful gazed watched not only Shetani, but also the space between Shetani and Audra. Kobalt would tear into the prisoner without a second thought if he were to even take a step toward Audra. He listened intently to Shetani relaying what happened upon his arrival to the Aegis Den, but he heard nothing about the reason he invaded their territory. That raised a red flag, making the coywolf even more suspicious of the wolfdog.
"I know only what his heinous actions were; he just repeated them, and we already knew all that stuff." Kobalt answered Argolis, but never took his eyes off of Shetani. "But he still never told us why he came. Why, of all places, he chose our den when there were even better hideouts, and why he attacked us in the same style I have seen from the Nuova Alba." A few steps were taken towards Shetani, hackles raised and teeth bared. "I wouldn't fall for his "innocent mistake" act, Argolis. Too many of his actions scream 'Nuova Alba.' Not to mention that we all know that Saydin's pack has it out for us. She killed my father, and it's only expected that she would send a spy or assassin to take care of us..." his heart sank when he thought of the fact that he was the son of a murderous, psychotic wolf, and there was a deep-rooted fear that it could be genetic. Saydin killed her mate, an Kobalt hoped that he wouldn't be genetically inclined to do the same. Lowering his tail and head, he stepped back to where Audra stood. "I'd like to talk to you in private when this is over, Audra," he whispered to the canine he saw as his mate. Surely she could alleviate his fears.
Juliet bolted from one end of the room to each other, stopping behind Argolis, who was surely the most powerful member of the Shadow Lurkers, both physically and in hierarchy. She gave the Lurker King a fair deal of space, while still within range of his protection should anything happen.
Audra & Vixen
Every time, every damn time, she managed to calm herself down, this inferior creature had to go and piss her off even more. Why couldn’t they just kill him? It would save them all the trouble of questioning him, and they wouldn’t have to worry about him, or worry about the harm he could bring them. Watching the little bitch in disguise backing away from Argolis in obvious fear, she held back a giggle at his uncomfortable situation. At least there was something amusing about this, even though all she wanted to do was rip the idiots’ throat out. Was that so wrong? Hell no. Way, way, before he finished his story she knew he was sugar coding a whole bunch of it. An exasperated sigh escaped her, one she couldn’t help even though Argolis made it clear for them to back off, as she found her mood just growing worse. If Kobalt moved his presence away from, nothing would stop her from killing this son of a bitch, half breed. Oh how she wanted to yell it at him, and be like ‘yeah, I said it.’ However even she knew this was the time for being seen and not heard. If only they knew how hard it was while this titan bad mouthed and lied to her alphas’ face. A face that was all up in Shetanis’ grill that is. Oh, but she knew her alpha would ask them for their story, and who would he believe? His pack members or this stranger who caused so much trouble? Audra wouldn’t bet a thing on the latter of the choices. This brute obviously didn’t think Argolis was going to ask her, Kobalt, or Shetani. When Argolis questioned them, she waited for the titan at her side to answer first. It didn’t take long for her protector to do such, and yes she noticed how he was guarding her, and everything he said was right. When Kobalt finished, she leaned into him as she sensed how he became upset over his mother. Before she could give her statement, he whispered in her aud about meeting later. Yes, after we see this sorry excuse of a dog put out of his misery. There was no doubt in her mind that he would be killed. Facing Argolis, she saw the spy feline, Juliet, standing a little ways behind him. Poor thing must be scared of this brute too, even though Audra just wanted to wipe the floor with him.
Sir, most of what he said is true, but some of it he sugar coded. He said he trespassing was an accident but I’ve seen reasons to believe different. He was chased by a human with a gun, and Auri did try to help him, along with me, Vixen, and Falcon when we saw her in trouble. Auri and Kobalt addressed him first by questioning why he was there, nobody growled or attacked right away, sir. His only response to our words was to bark while still eating, nothing but a bark. It was clear she thought the brute a little more than senseless in the head. I took him as a threat then, especially with the pups only a few lengths away, and attacked him, but it was only to knock him down. Nothing more, nothing less. Auri questioned him again along with Kobalt, who even told him to leave. The loner dodged my attack, and then came after me, and I had to defend myself. Ninaki showed up then and demanded answers about the same time Auri became overstressed and sick. He wouldn’t leave and the male became hostile, and so Kobalt suggested he might be from an enemy group. It wouldn’t surprise me, Argolis, if he was. Shetani continued to fight us, instead of trying to talk with us, he was purposefully trying to hurt us. She realized what she said next might seem a little childish, the whole who started the name calling, but this fool was making it look like the whole thing was their problem. The hell she was letting that go down. As for the half-breed incident, he started it by calling Kobalt a bastard. If he can’t take the heat, then he shouldn’t fucking dish it out. That’s why he had the right to call you one, and he’s more of a wolf than you will ever be, you little half-breed bitch. We constantly told him this was our home, even though he continued to say he didn’t know after we told him this was a pack. He’s a threat to us.
“Argolis, sir…” The soft ,trailed off call came from the open door, where a tentative Vixen stood. She knew about the alpha’s temper, and even feared it, but she felt like she had to say something. “This male has already harmed and caused danger to our pack. His anger and attacks have driven Auri to the point past stressed. She was physically ill, and this brute posed a threat to the pups. I believe the young ones will go through trauma, and I don’t know if they will recover, poor Nox has already showed signs of such things.” Her voice nearly broke on the last part as she respectfully lowered her tear filled gaze. The poor little pups and sweet tempered mother, who she had tried to protect, all because of this male. She couldn’t help but cut her gaze to him as a murderous look came to her mask. Would Argolis stop her from doing the rightful deed? A shake of her head was given, no, not out of fear though, out of knowing she was going back to the room where Auri and the cubs were, and she didn’t want them to see her like that. However, she would wait for the verdict.
Dixie
Dixie had heard the gun shots and the fight that had broken out. She had sat nearby with her pups as her pack members had chased away the human and kept the stray from entering any further. She had seen it all without anyone being the wiser. Yet, she had not stepped in because the shots had awoken the pups and she didn’t want to take them into any potentially dangerous situations. So, she had calmed them and gotten them back to sleep. By this time the fight was over and she could hear Argolis speaking to the group. This was the time that she had chosen to approach the whole situation.
Argolis would probably kill her for leaving the pups asleep a room away to go and help with the situation. But from the sound of it, the whole thing could turn volatile once again at any second. She could hear the dangerous edge in her mate’s tones and she knew that could be bad. Swift movement was made to her mate’s side as she looked to the ebony half breed. In honesty, she was even worse off, having no wolf blood in her at all. Instead she was a full blooded boxer. She probably held nothing in the way of strength of any of those here, but she had a kind heart. After everyone had spoken their peace she spoke to Argolis.
Argolis, if you wouldn’t mind may I have a word with you? He would be stupid to try anything with the rest of the pack here.
And to that she moved a few steps away. She then waited to see if Argolis would follow her. She did not want to pass judgment when she could tell that he did not trust the male. Ultimately it would be Argolis’ decision but she wanted to give the male a chance. If Argolis followed she would then speak to him in hushed tones.
Couldn’t we take him prisoner until we check around to see if he is sent by our enemies? If he was not then eventually in time we could give him the chance to either leave or join our ranks. I’m sure even you have noted his strength. He took on quite a few of our pack and survived. I think that having him on our side would be beneficial if he is not a spy. If we find proof that he is then he can be taken care of. Of course, this will mean precautions must be taken. We will have to keep him away from the rest of the pack and guarded at all times.
She had obviously thought this through thoroughly. Maybe the male was not the most intelligent, but he was strong enough to hold his own. And if they gave him a second chance at life then maybe he would be thankful and would pledge his loyalty to them. The Boxer girl had spoken her idea and now it would be up to Argolis to choose whether to go with her suggestion or whether to just take out the possible spy now. At least she will have tried to save him, because there was still a possibility it had started out innocently. She wouldn’t have to keep herself up at night because she hadn’t tried to find out the truth.
Argolis & Others
Argolis kept himself within immediate range of Shetani, almost wishing that the halfbreed would make some sort of snide remark or subtle action that would warrant an attack. He managed to keep his temper back just enough however, in order to listen first to Kobalt, then to Audra. Kobalt's words were strongly condemning, even if they were just speculations; they worked to reinforce Argolis's suspicion that this could be a spy, and thus lessen Shetani's chances of getting out of this alive. When Audra took her turn, her tones alone spoke louder than anything, and if there was any belief left in Argolis that this was a mere misunderstanding, Audra's damning statements snuffed that right out. Almost more than her explanation, it was the fae's tones that made the biggest impact on Argolis. To say Audra was heated would be a vast understatement - every syllable she spoke embodied a sense of hatred and disgust for their prisoner, and every bristled hair along her body stood in testament to her boiling emotions. Even if this had been an accident, which Argolis was no longer accepting anyway, he'd caused too much distress to the pack.
That would have been all the alpha needed to hear, but a quieter, more emotional voice caught his attention from the door before he could speak to Shetani. Not being foolish enough to turn his head around and expose his neck to the brute crouched submissively on the ground, Argolis turned one of his ears back to hear Vixen, a signal for her to go on. When she offered a new side to the drama, Argolis' wrinkle-faced expression really devolved into something sinister. If he looked pissed before, the dark brute's expression was positively murderous now, "So, not only have you brought humans into our home..." Muscles in his shoulders bunched, as if he were getting ready to attack, "...you've sickened one of our own with your mere presence! And endangered our pups! For this crime-" The verdict, almost certainly to be one of death for Shetani, had to be delayed when his mate entered the room next. Argolis shot her a wide-eyed, questioning look. The small light of panic that awoke in his golden orbs was for the pups that she'd left behind, even though they were almost certainly in no danger, with so many of their pack currently in the Den. "Dixie, you shouldn't leave the pups." He murmured sharply, and yet where anyone else would have gotten snarled at or told off, Argolis had always had a soft spot for the boxer, and after a moment of hesitation, he spoke louder, "Audra, Kobalt, watch him for a moment."
Argolis stalked a few steps away with his mate, after pausing once to look back to see if Juliet would follow him, or seek another canine to shelter behind. Being one of the more vulnerable members of their pack, he was very keen about her safety right now. "He's already caused too much harm, Dixie. You heard Vixen - Auri's never been a hardy one, and now she and her children have been compromised. And with humans brought into the mix, and our pups..." He shook his head with a frustrated growl. At the same time, it was hard for him to ignore her gentle suggestions; that was part his draw to her in the first place. Dixie was a more sensible, kinder creature than him, and had the ability to see more than just one side of a situation, unlike Argolis. The brute looked from the boxer to Shetani, then to Kobalt and Audra.
Another growl rumbled through his throat before he lifted his head high and finally detailed his verdict.. one slightly altered, "Skeil, tell the falcons that they are to be on watch for the Nuova Alba. We are to be immediately informed if any stranger strays within ten blocks of the Den." The old pitbull bowed her head before turning away and leaving the room. "Kobalt, Audra... 'escort' our prisoner to the roof, where he will be fully interrogated. If he continues to deny his involvement with the Nuova Alba, we will keep him for two weeks and see if they come back for him. If they do not, and he survives the interrogation... I will consider freeing him." There was a pause, "And only then if Auri and her young have recovered completely."
Shetani
Shetani almost snarled when Argolis stepped forward when he stepped back. God damn bastard!! While he was recounting the events, the alpha was constantly in his space, not letting him have any freedom. When he had finished his side of the story, he noticed the alpha ponder what he said. When his lyrics finally flowed off his tongue, his tones were dripping with sarcasm. He questioned his side of the story, and before Shetani could even slip a word out, the alpha had asked Audra and Kobalt their side of the stories. Great, not those two bastards. The half-breed, Kobalt, spoke first. He started off by saying that the brute had only said what his actions were after he entered the den. But what he was suspicious about was why Shetani had chose their territory out of everything. Next thing he said confused the brute. He fought like Nuova Alba?!?! How? He has never even heard of this group, let alone see them fight. Next he mentioned Saydin and Shetani couldn’t help but pull his lip back, baring his teeth slightly.
He was sick of being accused of being a spy. He was not one, so why suggest it. Kobalt had started advancing towards the brute but stopped behind his alpha. After he finished, something seemed to come over the coy wolf as he backed back towards his bitch, his head and tail low. Next was the bitch, Audra, and Shetani kept baring his fangs a bit while she spoke. Sure, it was probably a bad idea to be doing this, but these guys were really pissing them off, just like how he was pissing them off. Though he kept his lipped pulled back the whole time, no sound emanated from him as he listened to the bitch speak. She retold the story, changing a bit from his version. Her lyrics were overflowing with hatred and disdain. What really caught his attention though, when her words were directed at him, specifically about the half-breed incident. Once the word half-breed left her mouth when it was directed at him, Shetani let out a small growl though didn’t move towards the little bitch. Oh, how he hated that word.
Then a soft, emotional voice emanated from behind the alpha, and Shetani glanced between the alphas legs to see the femme canine walk inside the room. He vaguely remembered her, but did not catch her name. The femme spoke of how he had driven Auri, which was the fea that helped him with the two-leg, past distress and also traumatized some pups. Shetani immediately tried to say something to that. But was cut off as Argolis’ lyrics broke the air before his. His expression changed from pissed, to outright murderous. Immediately, the brute knew what was going to happen. But, just before the alpha could finish his verdict, another femme had entered the room. Oh man. Not another one to convince the alpha to kill him. What was the point. The alpha looked towards the fea, seeming a bit of worry in his eyes. But his next words told Shetani why that worry showed up. Pups. Probably his then. The femme was a pure breed Boxer, named Dixie from Argolis’ hushed murmur.
Then Argolis turned away from the brute and Shetani watched as he left the room, following Dixie, telling Audra and Kobalt to watch him. Shetani glared at the two, watching them carefully. Even if he was their prisoner, if they attacked him, then he would attack back in defense. It wasn’t long before the alpha came back, giving his final verdict. Shetani didn’t look at the brute as he spoke, first telling the pitbull, Skeil, to tell the falcons to keep an eye out for Nuova Alba. Then came the verdict concerning Shetani. He told Kobalt and Audra, great the two bastards, to bring his up to the roof where he’ll be interrogated. Wait. Interrogated? Wasn’t he going to be executed? If he denied involvement with Nuova Alba, then they will keep him for two weeks to see if they come for him. After that, the alpha…Wait. He just said he would be let free in two weeks. Well considered. Did he really hear that or was he dreaming? There was a pause before he continued, adding that he would only free him when Auri and the pups are fully recovered. That brought down Shetani’s hopes but not by a lot. There was still a chance he would be free! His tail gave a slight wave to the news but he immediately stopped it. Sitting up once again, since the verdict was over, he looked towards the two that were to escort him to the roof. He would not move unless they were to move. Wouldn’t want to dull his chances, right?
Kobalt & Others
Kobalt glanced at Audra as she comforted him, a faint smile appearing on his war-weary face. Just her presence was comforting; he knew he had somebody standing by him throughout the conflict. However, even as he shifted some focus to his mate, he still never lost sight of Shetani. He noticed the prisoner's growling and tooth-baring, which had him raising himself to a more dominant position - not an alpha, but an individual with more authority than a prisoner - and snarled straight back at him. He then nodded to Argolis at his request to take Shetani to the roof, and the next not was directed at Audra, signaling that it was time to escort the prisoner.
It was Nightshade who took action on Shetani's snarling at Kobalt. Stepping forward just before Kobalt had a chance to force Shetani to the roof, she let out a vicious, deathly, venomous snarl. "Hey asshole," she began, the fire of pure rage in her eyes, "I'm not the boss here, but if you bare a single rotting tooth of yours at my little brother again, I will personally rip your shriveled heart from your chest and leave you to rot. Not for the vultures, no... they wouldn't want to touch your vile corpse. The maggots will have a lot of fun, though." Her tone suggested she was serious - if Shetani fell out of line once more, Nightshade would not hesitate to use lethal force. After all, not only had Shetani threatened, insulted and attacked Kobalt, her brother, but he had also driven her ailing sister, Auri - as well as her pups - to sickness and lifetime trauma. He was clearly a danger to the Shadow Lurkers, and if he was a danger to them, he was a danger, by association, to Paslen-Proval, an allied pack in which relatives of some of the Lurkers resided.
Juliet stayed in the shadows close to Argolis throughout the conversation between him and Dixie, and Dixie's words struck terror into the young cat's heart. "Wait - what do you mean, 'let him join our ranks?!'" She squealed, hyperventilating, her tiny heart racing. "I was there - I saw it! He tried to kill some of the Lurkers without warning! He's not right in the head! He's a danger to the Lurkers! A danger to your pups! Please, I am begging you, for the love of all that is good and holy, do not let that deranged monster anywhere near our pack! He may be strong, but is he mentally fit to be in our ranks and on our territory?" The cat was feeling faint; her rapid breathing combined with her rapid heartbeat were posing a danger to her. She toppled to the ground, looking up at Dixie with a look of pure panic in her huge, golden-green eyes. There was no way she could handle Shetani being anywhere near her.
Audra & Others
As Shetani bared his fangs at her mate, she stepped forward stiff legged a step in warning, but nothing else at the moment. She would be speaking next. Once finished, she took the rest of the steps forward much like the first, in a stiff manner, and she bared her own fangs right in Shetanis’ face. The lass had gone over the edge, had met the breaking point for this brutes’ rude, bullying, and arrogant ways. Daring him to snap at her, growl, or do any fucking thing so she could kill him right there. She could do it, oh she knew she could, because this male had no idea, not a damn one, of who he was dealing with. The sweet femme was gone, the one who hated to fight, and now stood a pissed off huntress who was ready to kill. His growl only caused a snarl to release form her chest, as she made it obvious whatever he did, she was going to return tenfold. Audra was tired of this whole tirade of events. Fucking tired of it all actually. When Argolis mask turned dangerous she knew this brute was about to be killed, except the male was interrupted. Annoyance came to her due to the disruption. Soul holders watched as Argolis new mate, Dixie, appeared out of nowhere to stand by the alpha. She had left her newborns undefended? The vixen didn’t think she could ever do that, she would be very protective. Wait, hers? A look to Kobalt had her smiling at the idea through all her anger, yes pups would be nice. Argolis obviously wasn’t happy with his mate leaving his pups, in fact he even scolded her for it in a soft voice she managed to catch with her sensitive ears. Soon Dixie was taking Argolis to the side to speak with him as she stated the prisoner wouldn’t try anything. A snort came from her as she wished he would. Argolis order of her and Kobalt watching him only caused her to snarl at him to show his who was in control of his life. Her sisters’ voice had her guessing what the alpha female was doing, and she didn’t like it. Vixen had obviously heard every word from her vantage point by the door.
He survived because we weren’t trying to kill him! We were waiting on orders from Argolis or Ninaki. Why would we want a crazy wolf in our pack, a wolf that has already tried to harm us, and may even cause too much stress for those pups that they could forever be traumatized! Letting that freak join us would be trouble for the pack. I‘ll see him dead first.
It was obvious Vixen was freaking out like Juliet, except she remained just a little bit more calmer. Audra worried for her sister and the rest of the pack, she would kill the intruder before he joined them as well. Audra couldn’t believe it when Argolis came back and said for Skeil to tell the falcons that they are to be on alert for Nuova Alba. Orbs dilated as a shocked look came to her mask, and then anger when she was told to escort the prisoner to the roof with Kobalt. Yes she would do that, and maybe the male would have an ‘accident’ and fall off. There were many possibilities as far as that was concerned. When he looked to her and Kobalt, she narrowed her orbs at Shetani and gave a return nod as she went with Kobalt to escort him to the roof. He would die, she would make sure of it. Before they could make it far though, Nightshade was in Shetani’s face next, causing Failure to stand closer as well. The male had stood on the outside, and she figured it was because he wasn’t a ruler here. A smile came to her maw as she saw how protective Nightshade was of Kobalt, because she would have just ripped the guys heart out instead of telling him how she was going to do it.
Dixie
Dixie knew that it was against Argolis better judgement and his ways to allow this canine to live after what he had done. But it was against Dixie’s better judgment and ways to allow him to perish for a misunderstanding. Sure, she knew that he had fought back when he had been confronted but lots of dogs would do that if they felt cornered. And she knew that their pack was strong and could be intimidating to outsiders. She herself had been a little intimidated by the sheer size and strength at first and it had only grown since her arrival here.
When her mate told the others what was to be done, she could see and feel the anger of her pack members. They were all probably thoroughly pissed at her. That didn’t matter, though. Well it did but they would have to learn to trust her judgment as well as Argolis’. She was their leader now too and wanted to see if she was actually respected as one. It seemed like her position and decision was at least to be followed since the two told to take him to the roof agreed and headed that way. Dixie paused to speak to Argolis.
I am going to go up with them to make sure no unneeded harm comes to the prisoner. Holly is with the pups now, tell her I will return soon.
Finally, the Boxer girl was stepping up as a leader to this pack. No more would she be standing behind Argolis and allowing him to be the sole ruler. Now she would share his responsibilities and his glory. She was determined to begin pulling her own weight around here. She had ignored Vixen’s words from the door before moving up with the trio that had already began to climb the stairs. The rest of the pack would be left for Argolis to deal with.
Argolis & Others
Argolis did not intervene when Nightshade stepped forward to level a very real threat against Shetani. Though she was in his domain, she was an alpha of equal ranking, and if she saw fit to kill this intruder to protect her own family members, he would not stand in the way. In fact... it might provide a means for him to dispose of this worm without going against Dixie's wishes and publicly ordering Shetani's execution. Argolis kept that possibility in mind as he stood guard in front of their prisoner and listened to the following voices of concern and rage flow from the maws of his packmembers and allies. A pointed look was first turned down to Juliet, stern but not overly harsh, "This mongrel is not going to join our pack, and he is not going to be of any harm to you or anyone else here. If he does become problematic during his brief stay here, even in the slightest-" Shetani was met with a lethal gaze from the alpha, and a fresh flash of fangs to let him know he meant business, "-I will personally dispose of him." And oh, how he wanted to do that right now and be done with the whole mess, but one thing stalled that desire, and that one thing was turning away with the others as they prepared to take Shetani up to the roof.
Argolis moved aside to give Shetani room to be escorted, but before all of the appointed guards had left the room, his voice went sterner and his eyes locked onto Vixen's, "As your alphas, you will respect the decision that Dixie and I have come to. All of you will." With his brindle tail held high, Argolis reinforced his mate's words and reminded not only Vixen but the rest of the Lurkers present that they were not to be disobeyed. Bright eyes traveled from Vixen to the rest, "Those guarding Shetani will take shifts, and there will always be at least one falcon with you. No pups are to be allowed on the roof, and neither is Auri. Understood?" A glance was spared to Dixie, a silent acknowledgement that he'd heard her and would speak with Holly when he got a chance.
Shetani
As the beast rose to his pillars, and started to follow the two bastard, Audra and Kobalt, another hybrid came into his face, just inches from his maw. He immediately stopped in his tracks, staring bravely into the valkyrie’s star gates. He did not wince at her deadly snarl entered the atmosphere. Ebony eaves droppers twitch as the female spoke, her lyrics dripping in disdain and hatred. Yet he wasn’t really phased. He got his confidence back once he figured out that he wasn’t being killed. Only interrogated, and he knew he would be free to go for he was innocent. After she was finally done with her little speech, his banner twitched behind him and he just turned and walked around her, following after the two up the stairs. Damn escorts. He would deny everything they asked about him being with this Nuova Alba. For he was not. He would tell the truth. That is. Unless they asked things to personal. Then he would snap back with attitude. Yea. That might not be a good idea, but still. It was just his personality.
As his paws beat against the stair well, that one leg still having that limp and still bleeding a bit, he noticed the girl that had been talking to Argolis, following the three. The pure breed boxer. Argolis’s mate obviously. And that meant she was the alpha female. And the one that had talked to Argolis and changed his mind. Why was she following them to the roof? Maybe to make sure he was ok? Yea right. She probably hated him as much as the others. Once they got to the roof, Shetani broke away from the three around him calmly, paws beating against the hard concrete as he made his way to the edge. He made no movement that he was trying to escape. He just wanted to see. Stopping at the edge of the roof, he looked out at the surroundings. They were quite high. Pretty nice vantage point if he had to say so himself. Once he was done looking around, he turned and went to the middle of the roof, calmly setting his haunches on the concrete and curling his banner to his right side. He looked at the three, waiting for what they were going to do.
Audra & Others
Audra was a little surprised at the fact that Dixie followed her, Kobalt, and Shetani upstairs but she gave no objections. She wouldn’t be able to kill the mutt as easily, especially since she seemed to favor him for some odd reason. Maybe her past relations as a loner had something to do with it. Oh well, the prisoner wasn’t going anywhere and he would be dead soon enough. His disregard to their superiors was quite annoying though, and she would be surprised if Nightshade or Kobalt wouldn’t come unglued for the way he treated the alphess of the Night Watch. In silence she watched as the male walked close to the edge, making her oh so tempted to just shove him over, before coming to sit in the middle of the rooftop. It was them she gave him a hard stare with her lampages as she began to question him, completely trusting her two comrades to back her us, as she tried to get to the bottom of this.
Why did you come to spy on us? Who are you affiliated with, half breed?
Vixen was shocked at how Dixie completely ignored her words, her fears and worries. How the fuck was that suppose to make a good leader?! The wolfess stared after her in shock, anger, and fear as the new alpha female followed her sister, Kobalt, and the prisoner upstairs. Probably to make sure the bastard wasn’t hurt anymore and she wanted to spit in the Boxers’ face at that point. This huntress definitely didn’t trust Dixies’ judgment in this issue, hell she didn’t trust the other canine at all at this point. It felt like Dixie didn’t care for them. Argolis words hit the air as he made a point of looking to Juliet as he tried to calm her down, before his own gaze connected with hers’.
She choose that mongrel over us, her own pack…
The words left her maw when he finished addressing them by using her as an example. It wasn’t an argument, the lyrics simply left her when they dawned on her. Intense fear came to her soul gates at that point, an emotion brought on because of Dixie, because she chose a dangerous stray over her own pack. Auri and the pups, what if she went after them? Or the prisoner did? At that point she hurried back to where she left the mother and pups.
Nightshade & Others
Nightshade made no attempt to hide her anger. Not only at Shetani, but also Dixie. To Nightshade, Dixie didn't seem to understand the gravity of the situation. Shetani tried to murder a Shadow Lurker, and Dixie seemed to be siding with him. Golden eyes full of rage were set coldly on the boxer, but she resisted the urge to bare her teeth. Her hackles, however, were involuntarily raised.
Nightshade nodded to Vixen. She questioned Dixie's leadership skills if she completely ignored her pack members' words and chose an attacker over her own pack. "I know. It disgusts me," Nightshade mumbled to Vixen, eying Dixie afterwards, then directed her attention toward the King Lurker. "Argolis, can I have a word with you later?" Judging by the tone in her voice, this was serious.
Kobalt stood beside Shetani, his head held high and his cold stare fixed on the prisoner. What surprised him, though, was when Shetani was able to break free and run off for a short time. The big white-silver coywolf quickly rushed after Shetani, and with quick movements, he lunged at the prisoner, but it was too late. Kobalt missed Shetani as the latter walked away from the edge, which caused Kobalt to fall over the edge of the building. There was a deafening yelp and the sound of bones snapping when he hit the ground, and after much yelping, there was silent. Kobalt was unconscious, but to anybody looking over the edge, he would appear dead until they got close.
"Kobalt!" Nightshade barked, bolting toward the edge and looking down at the alley below. "Kobalt... no..." The Night Watch alpha was breathless. It looked to her as if her young half-brother was dead.
With the most rage she had ever felt, Nightshade stormed toward Shetani, god in his face and yelled in a vicious tone. "YOU DID THIS!" She snapped at his face, hoping to cause at least a little bit of damage. "YOU KILLED MY BROTHER!"
The huge jet-black coywolf had no idea how to tell Auri about the incident, but the death of Shetani may provide some consolation. Oh, how much she wanted to kill him right here, right now.