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Post by Blindside Tex on Mar 11, 2021 17:20:59 GMT -5
 Armin Odoras The Blackridge Pack, they were known for their brutality. At least, in the circle of those that were in the know. Vampires, werewolves. Anyone who uttered the name of this pack knew well enough than to stick their nose in the Blackridge Pack’s business. Rhett Odoras was the pack leader, the Alpha whom killed his own uncle to take charge. Since he had taken over the pack it had flourished. They took over more territory, forced other packs to submit and join them. Their numbers had doubled, if not trippled in the 5 years that Rhett had been Alpha. These things to most would be considered positive, depending on who you asked. However his younger brother Armin didn’t seem so keen on the decisions that his brother made for them as a whole. But that was just sibling rivalry, right? That’s what the pack tossed it off as. Besides, watching the brothers bicker was quite entertaining. A little bloodshed never hurt any other Lycan before. A trio walked through the town of Hallund. Laughter came from a young woman with fiery red hair. She was petite and had bright blue eyes that seemed to catch quite the attention from others that walked through the busy streets. “Look at all of them, rushing about. Buying ale.” She giggled and elbowed a man that stood quite a bit taller than her, he had dark short hair and blue eyes that nearly matched hers. “Just ripe for the picking, Rhett.” “Ah yes, which one will you choose sister?” The man chuckled, his eyes moved about the busy market as they walked toward the center of town. “Or better yet….which will you choose brother?” The two turned their heads to look to a fiery haired man that stood a bit shorter than the dark haired man. “I would rather not, Rhett.” The younger man spoke, his crystal blue eyes stared to his older brother. “Oh lighten up, Armin.” His sister giggled, “Why don’t you embrace your inner wolf?” She asked in a whisper. “Maybe you’re afraid you’ll have too much fun?” “Enough Kai.” Armin snapped, his eyes turned golden for a moment. The wolf within him. The lycans were discovered in many ways by the humans, causing great emotion or even pain was the easiest way. A lycan could not hide the change in the color of their iris. “Then why don’t you find one and bring it home brother. Otherwise, I’ll let Kai pick for you.” Rhett chuckled as he walked into a tavern. Kai grinned at her brother. “The other pack performs a hunt too, you know? At least we don’t torture our prey.” She shrugged and gave a smile to her brother. “Just try to embrace who you truly are brother.” She placed a hand upon his shoulder, reassuring him. “You wouldn’t want to end up like father.” She spoke before she walked off into the crowd. The eyes of many of the men were already upon her. Kai had a knack for stealing the attention of nearly everyone in a room. Armin was the opposite. It wasn’t that he was not alluring to look at, he simply chose to remain in the background. His brother was the Alpha of the pack, he did not have any intention on challenging his brother to gain control of the pack. Kai on the other hand was hopeful one day to lead alongside an Alpha of another pack. The Harvest Moon festival was upon them. It meant an entirely different thing to Lycans. But that was their own business to handle. The humans of the city would celebrate with ales, give rewards to the farmer that grew the largest squash, carve pumpkins, run through the corn maze, dance to live music, etc... For the Blackridge Pack it meant a glorious hunt. Armin thought it was a terrible sport, but his brother found it to be the most entertaining part of the year. Armin had warned that it would cause the humans to discover them one day. What if one of the humans escaped? But Rhett didn’t mind. Choosing a few humans each year to sacrifice to the Harvest Moon didn’t seem to cause too much of a commotion. Most blamed other wild creatures within the mountains for the deaths, they blamed the heavy drinking of ales as well. Simple enough to shrug it off... Armin walked through the town, he wore fine clothing that many would associate with nobility. His black tunic did not have a spec of dirt upon it. His leather boots were well kept and his black pants were nothing short of the finest thread to be found in Hallund. Armin ran his fingers through his unkempt fiery hair as he walked up to a market stall. He lifted an apple and bit into it before he placed a golden coin down upon the counter for the farmer whom thanked him for the gracious amount of money for a mere apple. The lycan walked through the market his eyes wandered about the humans and a long sigh came over his lips. He had to make a decision. He took another bite of the crisp apple as he gazed about the humans that were ‘ripe for the picking’ as his sister would say. Though his attention was caught by something else suddenly as he heard the crash of glass. He watched as a large brute of a man grabbed a hold of Kai’s wrist and jerked her back toward him. She must have done something to upset the man...though simply telling him no could have resulted in such a reaction, Armin imagined. Either way he had to stop it. Armin felt a growl swell in his chest as he rushed forward. “Kai!” He called as he slammed his fist into the side of the bulky man. His strength was inhuman, he knocked the man off balance and he instantly helped his sister to her feet. Kai took in quick breaths as she hid her eyes, her head buried against her brother’s chest as he wrapped his arms around her protectively. Blood ran down her arm from a cut that had happened from the broken pint glasses. “Are you alright?” Armin questioned. Kai nodded her head as she let out a shaken breath. She held her hand over the cuts that began to mend swiftly. Her eyes were still carefully adverted from the prying eyes of the humans that looked to the scene. “I’m alright….just another asshole...” She whispered softly as she grit her teeth slightly. The cut caused a good bit of damage to the lycan. “And just who the fuck do you think you are?” The man’s voice boomed as he brushed dirt off of his shirt. Armin scowled, “I’ll take care of it, go find Rhett. I’ll see you at home, Kai.” He spoke softly to his sister before he released her from his grip. “I’m her brother.” He spoke up as he stood his ground casually. Kai moved quickly through the crowd and was swiftly taken away by Rhett whom had come to see what the commotion was. “Oh her brother huh?” The man stepped forward and gripped Armin by his jaw roughly. “What a piece of work. You think just because your a noble you can run everything. Your sister seems to think she can have anything she pleases. Or say what she wants.” He scoffed. “I’ll shut her up for you.” He snickered then as a filthy grin came over his lips, his teeth were yellowed. “I’m going to give you just a few moments to remove your hand.” Armin spoke, his voice completely calm. The man’s grip tightened and his fingers snaked down around Armin’s neck. “How’s this?” He chuckled as he lifted Armin easily so that his feet were dangling just above the ground. “Sounds like I need to shut you up before I go and take care of that sister of yours, eh?” The lycan choked as he gripped onto the man’s arm. He grit his teeth as he kicked into the man’s chest which caused him to release Armin. They both fell to the ground but Armin was quick to his feet, he rubbed his neck slightly. The crowd had grown, many cheered to egg the fight on. He watched as the man stood and then without warning the man rushed forward. Armin easily side stepped and slammed his elbow into the man’s back. He moved with grace. His strikes were quick and efficient. He danced around the man with a bit of a smirk upon his lips. This was something he enjoyed thoroughly. Putting a slime ball like this in his place was something that Armin would never pass up. He threw punches and caught the man square in the nose, on the side of the head, in the chest, the jaw. It was a brutally quick fight. Soon enough the brute fell to the ground like a chopped oak in the woods, out cold. Armin rubbed his knuckles slightly and then let out a slight laugh. “Let me buy you a drink.” A woman that stood behind the counter of a bar spoke up. “It’ll be nice to not have to deal with him for awhile.” She poured the thick amber ale and pushed it across the counter. The frothy head sloshed over the brim of the glass onto the wooden counter. Armin chuckled as he took the ale and took a long drink from it. “Well, glad to be of assistance then.” He raised the glass to her as he leaned against the counter. A group picked up the brute of a man and carried him off, most likely to be placed in the stockades for attacking a noble. A smirk curved up his lips as he thought of it. He’d have to toss a few rotten tomatoes later before he would head home. His mind settled in once again on the need to pick a human for the hunt. He downed the ale and nodded to the woman before he stepped away from her counter. He shoved his hands in his pockets as he walked about the market center. His crystal eyes looked about. He had never chosen in the past. In fact, he chose not to partake in the hunts. But his brother was insistent that he would partake and he would chose a human as prey...Armin however still did not want to be a part of it. |
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Post by Nyte on Mar 11, 2021 18:53:31 GMT -5
Willow AyersThe harvest festival. It was probably the worst time of year. Her anxiety ran high, bruises and threats were common place, and not to mention her work load doubled. Willow had to go into town and collect various foods, decorations, and other necessary items that her alpha demanded of her. No matter how ridiculous the request she couldn't argue or even seem displeased by the order else punishment swiftly came afterwards. So, Willow found herself riding from town to town with a cart in tow as she searched to complete the list the man had given her the day prior. "You have until dawn two days from now." He had told her. "Else I'll send a hunt out for you early and you wont like being found." Ignatius Uldir was the pack alpha of Silverfang. A cruel and brutal man who cultivated the same qualities in those that served him. His human servants though were simply left to obey through terror and pain.
The latest, and final, town that Willow searched for items in had a busy market. She hoped that she could find the very specific silks that Ignatius had asked for. She also hoped they weren't as expensive as she thought they might be that way she might be able to buy herself a solid meal before heading back home. Ignatius always sent Willow to run his errands. Being that she was human she didn't have the concerns of being discovered like actual members of the pack. She could slip in and out without anyone being suspicious of her or thinking she was associated with anything that wasn't human. Not to mention she was expendable, unlike his fellow wolves. So she stopped her horse drawn cart by the inn and jumped down out of the seat as a young boy approached to offer his services. "Here." She told him and handed the boy a few copper pieces. "Please watch him and my cart for just a couple of hours? I'll be right back." She promised to which the boy pocketed the coins and nodded in agreement before reaching up to pet the horse's snout.
Satisfied her cart was taken care of she smoothed out the skirt of her dress and turned towards the busy street where vendors lined both sides while calling to passing villagers in hopes of catching their attention with their wares. There was only one vendor Willow was looking for though. As she checked the seventh or eighth stall for the silk she searched for a loud commotion suddenly drew the crowd's attention. Willow looked up to see what looked like a fight going on in the middle of the gathering crowd but quickly returned her attention to the matter at hand. She didn't have time to enjoy such spectacles. Not to mention it drew a lot of the customers away from the vendors so she could get a better look at their items in the mean time.
"This one!" She stated excitedly as she finally found the item she was looking for. A dark red silk with enough shine to it that it reflected the light of the sun.
"You have a good eye!" The vendor complimented her and lifted the bolt of cloth up from his cart to hand it to Willow. "Six gold pieces."
"Six?" She asked, a bit surprised. It was only one cheaper than what she had initially assumed it would be. Not wanting to squander her good fortune she quickly paid the man and set off to return to her cart. Though just as she made it half way down the street she found a stall with roasted meats and sweet buns so she stopped to spend the last of her money buying herself a meal.
She was quite pleased with herself. She had been able to buy everything and a little extra within the time frame she had been given. Perhaps Ignatius would be pleased for once in her ability to accomplish her task. Though that was probably asking a bit much. She'd settle for simply not angering him. Though as she rounded the corner to retrieve her cart her stomach sank. The horse and cart were still where she had left them but everything else was gone. The spices, fruits, and other textiles she had purchased were all missing. So was the young boy she had paid to watch them. "No.. no no no." She set the bolt of silk down and rubbed her eyes as if she simply hadn't seen the cart correctly and when she looked back the items would still be there. Unfortunately not.
"Something wrong?" A voice asked from behind her which made Willow jump. Turning around to face who had spoken she felt the color drain from her face. "Remus.." She said in a trembling voice. "I.. I don't.."
"Ignatius sent me out here to see if you were doing what you were supposed to. Had a feeling you were slacking off. Seems he was right. Only got one thing off the list? What have you been doing all this time?" He asked in a threatening tone while stepping closer to her and blocking any path of escape.
"I got all the items! I did! I left them here to get the silk. Paid a boy to watch them!" She argued. "I promise!"
"Then you are as stupid as you are weak!" He snapped. Remus was a hulking man, even by wolf standards. Not the beta of the pack but the one who Ignatius sent if he thought brute force was needed to resolve a problem. |
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Post by Blindside Tex on Mar 11, 2021 19:25:14 GMT -5
Armin walked along the market his crystal hues glanced about, his brows furrowed slightly. “Don’t think too deeply handsome.” A woman chuckled as she looked to him from her cart. “Why don’t you buy a few items? This will cheer you right up.” She held a vial toward him with an amber liquid within it, it looked to be as thick as honey. “My own mix, just two gold pieces.” She gave another smile.
Armin smirked as he looked to her. “Handsome huh?” He laughed lightly. “Don’t tell my brother you called me that. He’ll get jealous.” He grasped the vial and uncapped it to take a sniff. Fresh honey. “Oh is that lavender?” He lifted his eyes to meet hers.
The vendor seemed to melt slightly as he asked the question. “Yes, it is….exactly that.” She stumbled through her words.
He gave a light chuckle then before he set four gold pieces down on the table. “I’ll pass it along that you’re selling quality product.” He spoke before he turned and walked away. He rounded a corner and was run into by a young by with a bag full of items. Armin stumbled back. “Hey buddy where do you think you’re going?” He questioned as he looked down to him. The items of the bag had scattered across the streets. Bottles of spices, various exotic fruits. Armin knelt down to the eye level of the child, his eyes stared to the boy as he lifted a bottle of saffron. He clicked his tongue slightly. “You know…if I were to bet…I would bet you stole this. Hm?” The little boy had tears in his eyes by this point.
“I….” He stammered. “I didn’t….it…it uh is my mum’s. I went to the market…” He quickly began stuffing things back into the bag that he could hardly hold the weight of.
Armin growled slightly, “Boy, if you know what is best for you, you’ll return it.” He snarled, his eyes stayed on the young child. “You don’t want to end up in the stockades to you? Hm? Or worse.” His voice was threatening.
“No…no sir…I don’t…I…” The boy took a few steps back, the bag dragging along the ground.
“Return it to its owner.” Armin spoke he held out two gold pieces. “Hm? I’ll give you four more when you’ve done it. That’s worth more than the lot you have there….now isn’t it?” The lycan dropped the pieces into the child’s hand and walked off. He was headed toward the exit of town where he would make his way back to the manner in the foothills at the outskirts of the city. Though as he walked forward he caught a whiff of something. His nose wrinkled. Another lycan. He continued forward his eyes focused in on the back of a hulking man. He stopped and listened as he walked up to a young woman. His head tilted slightly, his lip curled a bit. There was one thing his brother did right, they didn’t have servants in his pack. He knew of other packs that used humans for everything…it was worse than the hunt in his opinion.
“She did have quite the lot of things that she had acquired.” Armin spoke as he stepped forward. “Stable boy took it. He should be returning it slowly.” He crossed his arms over his chest, his crystal eyes locked in on the man. “Did I hear you say Ignatius?” He questioned, his voice sharp as a knife. “You know this isn’t quite Silverfang territory…” As he spoke a few other fellow pack members of his own had walked up behind him. Remus would be outnumbered quickly. “Don’t worry. I’ll take your human here as payment.” Armin reached forward and grasped her wrist. He pulled her toward him, a bit of a smirk upon his lips. “Oh and the items?” He grinned. “We’ll keep those too. Unless you truly do want to risk your life.” By then there were five or six lycans standing around from his own pack, they all had their eyes trained in on Remus, ready to launch their attack. His grip upon the woman’s wrist looked to be harsh, but the actual hold was almost gentle. He hadn’t jerked her to him, he had merely given her a tug in his direction.
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Post by Nyte on Mar 11, 2021 19:51:59 GMT -5
Remus reached forward to grab Willow, causing her to flinch in response, but just before his hand reached her the man stopped and sniffed the air. The scent of another wolf caught his attention and he turned just as Armin walked up behind him, letting out a low threatening growl in the process. Willow peeked around Remus to get a better look at who had caught the wolf's attention. It didn't take long for her to realize just what was going on and she knew it was probably not going to end well. When the man grabbed her and pulled her close, away from Remus, she tensed and closed her eyes in expectation of some sort of pain or retaliation. However it didn't come.
"You don't know what you're messing with boy." Remus threatened though as he looked to the other pack members that had quickly came to support Armin it was clear he didn't like his odds. "You're going to regret taking what belongs to Silverfang." He snarled at Armin and the others. "Ignatius isn't the type to simply let go what belongs to him." He chuckled darkly. "Return her and the items to me and I'll forget this little exchange happened, hmm?" He held out his hand to take Willow back who stood as still as she possibly could while between the two men. She was afraid that if she moved she would somehow trigger a fight or worse.
While Remus tried to negotiate the terms of the servant's return Willow's mind raced. She was going to get in trouble, one way or another. Either Remus would take her back and she would have to deal with him and the angry alpha or she would be subjected to whatever this pack did to their humans. With the hunt so close she had a fair idea of what that might entail exactly. Only daring to move her eyes she glanced to the gentle hold the man held on her wrist and slowly slid her eyes up to look at his hardened expression as he stared at Remus. He was handsome, of course, and those crystal blue eyes were the brightest color she had ever seen. Most of the Silverfang pack members had dark colored eyes, and even when angry the color changed from brown to a deep honey color that bordered on a dull bronze shade.
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Post by Blindside Tex on Mar 11, 2021 20:10:35 GMT -5
Armin kept his grip on her constant, though his expression was calm. A laugh came over his lips. “Forget?” He snarled then, “You must be forgetting something. You’re in our territory. So whatever you decide to bring into our territory is now property of our pack.” He growled at the end, his eyes turned a beautiful golden color, unlike the dark bronze that the Silverfang pack held. It was almost the same shade as a honey in the sunlight. His fangs were visible as he spoke. He was showing his strength to the enemy.
The young boy approached, shaking as he heard the two argue. “I’m sorry miss. I…I didn’t have enough money for food…” He set the bag of goods down next to Willow’s feet and scurried off, he glanced over his shoulder toward Willow as he sprinted away into the shadows of an alley.
Armin gave a nod to one of the Lycans that had come to his aid. A man with a thick black beard and long unkept hair stepped forward. He lifted the bag and looked inside of it before he chuckled. “Spices and fruits? Really?” He shoved the bag into the chest of Remus, he stood a good bit taller than the brute. “Tuck your tail between your legs and get out. Be thankful that it isn’t your life that you’re paying with pup.” The man whom spoke was Edwin. He was much older than even Rhett. He had stood as the right hand to the Alpha for a few centuries now. He had not want to challenge the Alpha, but he would happily defend his pack leader in a heartbeat.
Armin smirked, his hold on Willow remained the same, almost reassuring in a way. “Unless you want to try your hand at a fight.” He glanced around to the other Lycans at least 10 stood with their eyes upon the two. “I’m not sure the odds are in your favor for that. But I wouldn’t turn down ridding this world of scum. I do it on a daily basis with the slime of this city….humans…but.” He shrugged. “I’ll gladly deliver your head on a platter to my Alpha.” A wicked grin came to his expression. Armin wasn’t one for senseless violence, but this man had hit a nerve with him. He hated humans made into slaves….or servants as other packs liked to call them. Same damn thing. He glanced to Willow a moment before his eyes returned to Remus, but not another word came over his lips.
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Post by Nyte on Mar 11, 2021 20:32:41 GMT -5
Remus growled in response to the snarky response Armin offered instead of returning his pack's servant. This mutt was going to cause Remus a lot of issues if he didn't get Willow back, along with their goods. When the boy returned Remus glanced down to the child and then to the bag of items he sat on the ground next to Willow's feet. He could just take the goods and go. Tell Ignatius that he had killed Willow as she tried to escape him when he went to fetch her. It would be easier than trying to muscle his way through a dozen members from another pack. So, when Edwin threw the bag at Remus he caught it and gave a low growl once more before picking up the silk bolt as well from the cart Willow had just purchased. "Fine." He snapped and turned to leap up onto the roof of the building next to them before disappearing out of view.
Willow was shaking by this point. Remus had left her? With this strange pack? What was going to become of her now? Looking to the grip Armin held on her wrist once more she tried to gently pry herself free. "I.. I'm sorry for the trouble I've caused." She told the man. "If you let me live I'll cook, clean or whatever you need!" She rambled quickly. "I can even sew and read!" Reading, when it came to servants, was rare. The skill was not often useful but since Ignatius like to send her out with lists he had ensured that someone taught her the written script when she was a child. All she could do was hope that this wolf didn't throw her into the hunt. She knew that she probably wouldn't survive such an event. Especially since she haled from another pack.
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Post by Blindside Tex on Mar 11, 2021 20:57:12 GMT -5
Armin watched as Remus quickly tucked his tail between his legs and left. Easy as that. He imagined that something would come of it. But with how strong his pack had grown over the past five years, he didn’t really fear the Silverfang pack as he would have when he was younger. Even if his brother’s ideas were aggressive, his brother had the pack in mind. When he felt the slight tug from Willow he glanced down to her, a brow rose slightly as she rambled quickly. Before he could speak Edwin let out a chuckle, “Don’t let your brother know you’re going soft, pup.” He placed a hand on Armin’s shoulder. He glanced to Willow. “You’re not going to toss her into the hunt are you? That would be a shame, Armin.” He asked curiously. “You heard the girl, she can read.” He chuckled as he walked away. The other pack members had gone back into the crowd as well.
The lycan released his grip from Willow and he took a step back from her. He stared to her for a moment, almost frozen. His eyes glanced to Edwin whom was still walking away. “Well, at least you can read.” He said before he scratched his head slightly. Armin looked to the horse and carriage. “I was headed home.” He spoke as he looked to her, his crystal eyes were bright as the blue sky. He furrowed his brows slightly as he glanced back toward the market. “Benny.” He called over to a stable hand. “Sell it.” He pointed to the horse and carriage. “Send the money to the Odoras Manner, would you?” He tossed the young man a few golden coins. “I don’t want to see this here tomorrow. You understand?” The young man nodded quickly as he took the horse and carriage away.
Armin looked to her, “Come on then. I’m certain I won’t have to drag you along, hm?” He spoke as he turned and started walking. “It wouldn’t turn out well for you anyway. Right?” He glanced over his shoulder to her, a bit of a smirk upon his lips. “That guy was a real asshole.” A hearty laugh came from his chest for a moment before he walked toward the market. “Come on.” He grasped her hand then and tugged her along. “Afternoon.” He spoke as he set a few coins down and grabbed a bag as it was set upon the counter. It smelled of fresh cooked meats and vegetables. “I noticed you dropped your food.” He spoke as he led her from the city center. Once they were clear from the crowd he released her hand and gave her the bag. “You’re welcome to it.” He spoke as he walked along. Armin led her from the city and up a long winding driveway toward a gorgeous mansion that was constructed of stone. It had a beautiful courtyard that was perfectly manicured.
“Oooooo Armin….what have you got there?” A voice came from the balcony. It was Kai with her bubbly smile, she had her hair pulled up into a messy bun. “I’m coming down, brother!” She spoke in an excited tone.
Armin growled slightly and pinched the bridge of his nose as his sister left the balcony quickly. “Best behavior hm?” He looked to Willow.
A second later Kai came rushing through the door. She wore a beautiful blue blouse and black pants with black knee high boots. She grinned as she walked out. “Brother, brother what have we here?” She stepped forward and walked around Willow gazing to the woman with her own crystal blue eyes. “You’re quite lovely, dear.” She spoke with an intoxicating smile.
Armin moved between the two. “I took her from a Silverfang I found in town. Edwin will inform Rhett of the run in I’m sure.”
Kai stood on her tip toes and peered around her brother’s shoulder. “Ooooo even more delightful brother.” She pat his cheek. “You’re listening to your wolf. I like it.” She stepped around. “You dear need something nicer to wear.” She reached forward and grasped Willow’s hand.
“Kai….” Armin growled as he was pushed aside by his younger sister.
“Shhh.” Kai lifted a finger, “I’ll bring her down to the foyer in a bit, don’t you worry brother.” She grinned, “Why don’t you go speak to Rhett and inform him on what happened? I’m certain that he would be quite interested in hearing your story. Proud of you even.” She winked as she towed Willow behind her. She hummed softly as she climbed the winding staircase of the foyer. Armin stood at the base of the steps with crossed arms for a moment before he could be seen walking off down another hallway. The manner was huge. Kai continued to hum to herself as she led Willow into a room that held a grand view of the city of Hallund. It overlooked the courtyard of the manner. “Ah.” She turned as she closed the door. She released her grip on Willow’s hand. “What sort of clothing would you like?” She asked then, a smile on her lips. She then frowned slightly. “How terribly rude of myself.” She spoke after a moment. “I’m Kai Odoras….you’ve met my brother, but I almost imagine he didn’t introduce himself. Armin.” She grinned then. “And you are?” Her crystal eyes paused on Willow intently. She was incredibly nice, possibly too nice for a lycan. She waited a moment and turned to the dresser before she opened it and thumbed through it. “Tell me….about” She turned as she held up a dress to Willow and then shook her head slightly. “The lycan that my brother took you from. Hm?”
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Post by Nyte on Mar 11, 2021 21:41:58 GMT -5
Yes, she could read. Hearing the other wolf mention her skill, stating it would be a shame to throw her into the hunt, gave her hope that she might be able to simply find work within the pack. She was skilled enough she could fit in almost anywhere they wanted to put her. When he released his grip on her wrist she stepped back from him and lowered her eyes as to not offend him. She had always been told not to look a wolf in the eyes. They were above her and therefore she had to look at their feet instead. When he directed for the man to sell her cart she felt a twinge of panic. Another thing Ignatius will have lost and that he would be very angry about.
When Armin directed her to follow him she only hesitated a brief moment before beginning to walk behind him. His comment about Remus caused her to furrow her brow a bit. Was she supposed to agree with him? He had laughed at his own joke and she felt a small twinge of a smile pull at the corner of her lips. However when he grabbed her hand to pull her around the market she felt her smile quickly fade. The smell of the food was very tantalizing as she hadn't gotten to enjoy her own purchased meal and her surprise only grew as he handed her the bag and told her she could have some of it. Was he serious? Not wanting to be rude by refusing his gift or miss out on the opportunity by him recalling his offer she took out several pieces of the meat and vegetables and munched on small bites as she continued to follow behind him.
As they approached the manor in which the pack lived she glanced around the manicured courtyard and the lively way which they had their home decorated. It was a stark difference in comparison to the Silverfang pack. They lived in dark cabins and along forest trails that even the bravest of pelt hunters dared to traverse. There were often deep growls and the sound of snarls that came from the dark trees even when Willow would return home from one of her errands. As the approached the front of the mansion and heard the sound of a lovely feminine voice calling from above Willow looked up to see what she assumed to be another wolf looking down on them. She was really going to be in service of another pack, and as they waited for the woman to come down she nodded in understanding at his instruction to behave.
Once the woman finally reached them Willow quickly figured that the two were related. They looked like siblings and the way they addressed each other was very familiar. Then as Kai began to circle Willow she stood perfectly still. She was used to this. Being evaluated. Anytime she met a new wolf this happened. The only thing she could do was hope that Kai found something pleasing about her. Luckily, so it seemed, Kai took a liking to her and before she could process what was happening she was towed inside the mansion and up a set of grand stairs by the woman.
"Whichever clothing you find suitable for me, M'Lady." Willow replied in an even and respectful tone as Kai began to search through dresses and other clothing items. "My name is Willow Ayers." She introduced herself and gave a bow of respect. "The wolf who your brother Armin met today was, Remus. Strong, brave and a trusted hand of our alpha Ignatius Uldir." It was clear her response was well rehearsed. She probably had similar descriptions for each member of the pack she interacted with. "I.. I did not get a chance to thank you brother." Willow stated as she looked down to the bag of food she still held in her hands that he had purchased for her in town. It was an incredibly kind gesture in her mind. Probably one of the kindest things a wolf had ever done for her.
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Post by Blindside Tex on Mar 12, 2021 0:23:17 GMT -5
Kai continued to grab dress after dress and hold it up to Willow. She’d shake her head and hang the dress back in the dresser. She settled in on a beautiful black silky dress that had emerald accents. “Ahhhh yes.” She grinned. Her crystal hues then narrowed in on Willow as she spoke of Remus. “You speak of him as if you respect him.” She let out a laugh and shook her head. “There isn’t a respectable soul in the Silverfang pack.” She raised a brow slightly. “You know that…I hope.” She shrugged slightly. “This dress will bring your eyes out darling.” She spoke the pet name fluidly as if she was speaking to a dear friend or family member. Kai looked to Willow once more and then to the bag a grin curved up her lips. “He saved you from that mangy mutt and he bought you dinner?” She raised a brow once again. Her eyes filled with curiosity. “Well my dear you seem to have sparked an interest in my brother. Perhaps he is listening to his wolf finally.” She laughed playfully. “Come.” She spoke and led her over to the balcony where she pulled out a chair to a beautiful table that sat in the sun. “Enjoy your food.” She spoke before she glanced back into the room. “I…will leave you to it, I’m certain you’re hungry…” She tilted her head slightly.
Kai glanced over the edge of the balcony as someone else walked up the driveway. “Edwin, how lovely.” She beamed. “When you finish your food dear, slip into that dress, I’ll help you with the corset.” She paused a moment. “Tricky things.” She rolled her eyes. “But you’ll look splendid.” She turned, “I’ll be right back.” She stepped back into the room and left Willow there, alone.
**
Armin stood in his brother’s office, his arms crossed over his chest. “I don’t like that they seem to think that they can just waltz into our territory, brother.” He spoke his voice serious. “He spoke to me as if it were his territory. Those mutts don’t have any respect for you, clearly.”
Rhett looked up from his desk to his brother, he swirled a bourbon around in his glass and sipped from it. A smirk curved up his lips. “You sound more and more like a pack Alpha as you speak.” He chuckled, “All this talk from Kai about listening to your wolf, perhaps you’ve finally begun to give in.” He took a long drink from the glass to finish it off before he set it upon the table.
The door pushed open and Edwin walked in. “Rhett.” He bowed his head and then nodded to Armin.
“Ah my brother has beaten you to the punch old man. Perhaps he will become my new right hand.” Rhett chuckled as he looked to his brother. He was pleased that Armin had defended the pack in such a way. It showed his strength and a surprising amount of loyalty where he did not expect it. Rhett expected his brother to fight for the pack, but to run an enemy off of their territory with such aggression. It made him proud.
**
Several minutes passed and Kai came back down the hallway, she was humming happily. A glass clinked as she pushed the door open. “Ah here we are.” She spoke as she walked into the room. She set the two glasses of wine down on top of a bookcase and smirked slightly. “Do you know how to wear a dress like this?” She asked as she began helping Willow with the corset.
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Post by Nyte on Mar 12, 2021 0:40:19 GMT -5
Kai went through so many dresses and outfits. Willow had never seen so many beautiful clothes belong to a single person. Even Ignatius, who owned the most in the Silverfang pack, did not keep such an impressive wardrobe. She also listened intently to Kai as she spoke of the man who had come to save her from the clutches of her own pack. Listening to his wolf was an expression that she heard often but never fully understood the meaning. Was there another side to the wolves that could aid them in decisions or was it simply an instinctual thing? She never bothered to ask since it would be seen as a stupid question and she wasn't about to ask now.
There was also the way Kai spoke of the Silverfang pack. Willow knew packs didn't usually get along, and if they did it was tenuous at best. It was obvious that this pack didn't care for Ignatius and his kin. That didn't make her brave enough to speak out against them though. When Kai gave her the sunbathed seat on the balcony to eat the rest of her meal she thanked the woman for her kindness and watched as she disappeared back inside the room. Once she was alone she released a breath she had been holding for what seemed like an eternity. She hadn't realized she had been so tense until the wolf had left her on her own. "What am I going to do?" She muttered to herself and continued to nibble on the food Armin had purchased for her. Might as well so it didn't go to waste.
While Kai was gone Willow tried to think of what she should do about her predicament. There wasn't much. She was in the heart of another pack's territory. She had offered her services to Armin, who while hadn't necessarily accepted them, was glad she could read. She did take note of the fact that there weren't any other humans she had seen so far in the mansion. Where were the servants? Surely they employed some to keep their grounds looking so nice. She would probably find out sooner or later.
When Kai returned Willow got up from her seat and moved to meet the woman at the door way. She tilted her head slightly as she noticed she was carrying two glasses of wine. Was someone else going to be joining them? "I'm sorry, but I've never worn anything like this. I greatly appreciate the offer but.. I don't understand." Her clothes weren't the nicest, but they weren't rags either. A little dirty perhaps from her travels around looking for the supplies she had been sent to fetch, but she maintained her clothing quite well. "How will I do chores in a dress like this? It would only get dirty."
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Post by Blindside Tex on Mar 12, 2021 1:04:28 GMT -5
Kai lifted the glass of wine to her lips and sipped from it. It was a deep red wine, just sweet enough. It was delightful on a sunny day. She tilted her own head as she listened to Willow, the confusion in her voice. Then when her last sentence came from her lips Kai nearly spit the wine from her mouth. She laughed a playful laugh and then shook her head. “Silly girl, you are not a servant any longer.” She set her glass of wine down and let out a sigh. “My brother has brought you to our home. We do not have servants here.” She looked to her clothing and frowned. “Now dear, we must get you out of this….clothing. It’s dirty here.” She brushed at a bit of dirt, “It’s not...” She wrinkled her nose slightly. “Hm what word would you like me to use….” She tapped her chin. “Acceptable I suppose.” She grinned to her. She began helping her one thing at a time, walking around her. “You’ve no need for servant’s clothing.” She spoke as she helped slip the dress over her head. She then slipped the corset over Willow’s head as well. “Take a deep breath darling, it makes it fit better.” She spoke before she cinched down the corset.
Kai took a step back and grasped her glass of wine, she tilted her head to one direction, looking to Willow. “That will do, yes.” She grasped the other glass and handed it forward. “Don’t just stand there, take it.” She chuckled slightly. “You’re so tense you’re giving me a headache.” Kai complained. “Come, come.” She walked to the door and stepped out into the hallway before she led Willow back down the grand staircase of the manor.
Armin came from another hallway his eyes looked to the two. He drew in a breath, “My dear sister what are you doing to that poor girl?” He questioned as he looked over Willow.
“She fits in much better now. Don’t you think?” Kai grinned she took a sip from her glass of wine. “She’s your guest brother. I just imagined that you….would like her to look more acceptable. So...” She motioned to Willow and another smile cracked her lips. “Oh and brother….her name is Willow. Not that you worried to ask such a question.” She rolled her eyes. “Boys.” She placed a hand on his shoulder. “You can’t teach them anything.” She looked to Willow, pleased with the dress selection she made.
Armin drew in a breath as he looked to his sister. He pinched the bridge of his nose slightly and then he nodded. “Come on then, Willow.” He spoke as he walked off down another hallway. He led her through the house and into a large well stocked library. There were books stuffed into each individual shelf. Clearly years if not centuries of collections. Some of the old leather bound books looked as if they had been through many years of travel and use. He walked her to a table where he poured himself a glass of whiskey. “Have a seat.” He spoke as he grasped his glass and he took a seat across from her. His crystal hues focused in on the woman for a long moment as he took a sip from the glass. “Willow.” He spoke her name again. “You’ve been captive a long time, I can see this.” He began. “Enjoy the wine that Kai gave you. It might help loosen you up a bit.” He motioned toward the glass.
The lycan leaned back in his seat and let out a long breath. “Tell me, how large is the Silverfang pack now?” He questioned. “Your knowledge of Ignatius and his pack will be quite useful. They are a stain upon existence and they threaten to expose our kind.” He cleared his throat slightly. “I do not agree with their ways of keeping humans as slaves.” He sneered slightly. “Neither does my brother, whom is our pack Alpha. We do not have servants. We do have those of our pack that are paid to perform tasks around the manor. Or we simply do it ourselves….” He tilted his head slightly. “Now, tell me something that would aid my brother in ending the Silverfang pack." It seemed perhaps he had rescued her simply for knowledge. But that wasn't truly the case. But he had to hold up a wall. He couldn't allow others to believe he had merely saved her to save her from the lycan that was treating her poorly...
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Post by Nyte on Mar 12, 2021 1:28:59 GMT -5
Willow jumped when Kai nearly spit out her wine. She had asked a simple question and was very confused by the answer. She wasn't a servant? Then why was she here? The hunt perhaps? Then why would they be so kind to her, and loan her a dress? This pack was very confusing. Then came the assessment of her clothing. Kai was right in a way. They were dirty and she didn't look like one of the wolves of their pack, but then again she wasn't really supposed to. She was merely human. Though it seemed there was no use in arguing as Kai helped her strip down and slip into the black and green dress. The corset.. despite Kai's advice, was the worse part of it. The garment squeezed her tightly and restricted her movement quite a bit. It also helped reveal her figure, which was something she never advertised. That was simply asking for trouble. Once dressed and as Kai handed her the glass she hesitated a moment, as if to see if it was some sort of trick, but when she insisted she reached up and took the glass from the woman. She didn't drink the wine, but instead opted to carry the drink with her as she followed after the woman to return back downstairs.
As they reached the main entrance, the same hallway they had parted from Armin, she clinched her glass a little tighter upon hearing Armin's reaction to her new state of dress. She offered Kai a bit of a small smile after her quip about not being able to teach boys, but refrained from commenting. When Armin instructed her to follow she did so without protest. When they approached the library she couldn't help but glance around at all the tomes that lined the walls. She had never seen such a large library before. The collection of books the Silverfang pack kept was but one shelf of the many these wolves kept.
When Armin instructed her to sit she did and placed the untouched wine glass on the table in front of her. Though as he instructed her to drink it she was a bit more hesitant. After he took his seat and began asking his questions she began to realize why he had bothered to take her from Remus. He wanted details on an enemy pack. It was smart, but she wasn't sure if she should divulge such information. "You seek to end Ignatius's pack?" She asked with her brow furrowed. "And you have no servants?" She asked, still refusing to use the word slave.
She began to turn the glass of wine between her fingers for a moment, staring into the red liquid as she did, while contemplating how she should answer the question. "Ignatius never told me how many members his pack has." She finally offered. "I regularly interacted with only a dozen or so but there are many, many more." She winced as she thought back to the one time she had dared to ask such a question of the alpha. Ignatius was as brilliant as he was cruel. Others of his kind thought him to be a brute but he held alliances that should not have been possible in the eyes of many. He offered tempting deals that others found hard to resist and when they did refuse.. well that mistake was usually quickly corrected. "He won't let me stay here you know." She finally offered up. "He'll come for what belongs to him. No matter he got his spices and silk.. he'll want his errand girl back." There was obvious fear to her tone as she spoke without meeting Armin's gaze. "This was the first year I wasn't going to be part of the hunt for as long as I can remember. It took me years to earn his favor enough for him to exclude me from it. Now I know I'll be forced to run from the pack."
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Post by Blindside Tex on Mar 12, 2021 2:19:36 GMT -5
Armin watched her, his eyes curious as she asked her questions to his own questions. Of course Ignatius never told her the numbers within his pack. Why would he trust a human with such information? He leaned forward in his seat as he listened to her. He watched the wince come across her face and his brows furrowed. Her next words offered her fear forward to the lycan. He set his drink down upon the table and clasped his hands upon the table before him. “The hunt is a horrible pass time.” He spoke after several moments of silence. “It is reckless and cruel.” His brows remained furrowed as he seemed to think a moment upon her words. He hadn’t spoken to a human that another pack had held captive. Most packs were not so arrogant as to get caught with their servants running around in their territory.
He watched her with an almost cold stare, “If you’re so apt to return to such a life of fear, then go.” He spoke. “Perhaps I was mistaken in saving you. Blinded by such a beautiful face.” He cleared his throat slightly. “I’ve plenty to do anyway.” He stood as he looked to her. “You should prepare for the hunt then. If you’re so sure that you’re running in it.” He grasped his glass and downed it. “The dress looks nice on you at least. I thought Kai was quite kind to offer you a chance to fit in with us, to blend in with our pack. She may have been mistaken as well, I see.” It was almost as if he was so irritated by her answers that he expected nothing more from her. Armin set his empty glass upon the table then before he turned swiftly and stepped from the room. There was loud conversation from down the hallway, back and forth it seemed. The voices would have echoed into the library to Willow, but understanding the words would have proven difficult.
A few minutes later the door pushed open and in came the dark haired brother. The door closed behind him and he walked across the room toward Willow. His stare was nothing short of focused. He didn’t sit at the table as he crossed his arms and stood across from her. “You’re being difficult, hm?” He asked a bit of a smirk curved up his lips. “My brother listened to his wolf for the first time in a century and his wolf chose a human to spark his interest.” He chuckled then as he finally took a seat. He looked her over slightly. “You had better act differently or he might throw you into the hunt.” He laughed, as if it was a joke. He knew very well that his brother wouldn’t do such a thing. “I am Rhett. The Alpha of this pack.” He introduced himself. “Kai tells me your name is Willow and that you are a servant to the Silverfang. Shame.” He clicked his tongue. “Doesn’t look like you’ll be fulfilling that slot anymore, hm?” He snickered slightly.
The door pushed open and in walked Kai. Her heels clicked across the room. “Brother, don’t interrogate her.” She huffed.
The Alpha gave an amused smile to his sister. “We were merely chatting.” It was different the way that this pack operated. Rhett was clearly the Alpha but he didn’t backlash at his other pack members. He almost seemed to allow his sister to speak to him in an aggressive manner. That wouldn’t be tolerated in most packs, but this one clearly made an exception.
Kai crossed her arms as she looked to her brother. “You don’t merely chat.” She pipped back to him. She then looked to the full glass of wine and let out a sigh. “If you’d drink that you’d relax. I can hear your heartbeat you know.” She looked to Willow and then back to her Alpha. “What are you planning do to, Rhett?” She asked then as her crystal hues watched him.
Rhett let out a laugh, “I’m going to put you in charge of babysitting.” He looked to Willow. “Until our brother figures out what exactly his wolf has told him.” He shrugged before he walked from the room.
Kai let out an exasperated sigh. Babysitting. She rolled her eyes slightly. “You’re hardly a baby.” She leaned against the table on one hand. “What on earth did you say to my brother?” She questioned. “He’s fuming.”
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Post by Nyte on Mar 12, 2021 2:42:14 GMT -5
Willow jumped as Armin suddenly snapped at her. She hadn't stated she wanted to return, but rather voiced a fear that Ignatius would come and collect her. Apparently that was not the correct line of thinking and though she felt quite stupid for saying it now she wasn't sure what it was exactly that had set him off. "I.." she started to reply but he had put his glass down with a sense of finality before turning to leave. She wanted to melt into the ground beneath her feet. Or simply cease to exist at all, but no matter how hard she wished to disappear she simply remained sitting in the chair with her jaw set, staring forward.
Hearing the angry voices from down the hall she became absolutely convinced she had somehow managed to mess up her would-be freedom from Silverfang and gotten herself into a worse situation with this pack. Then to make matters worse another man came in to speak with her and this one had an air of authority to him even she couldn't deny. When he introduced himself as the alpha it made perfect since to her. "It's an honor to meet you." She told him with downcast eyes.
Before she could comment on his observation Willow heard someone else enter the room and looked up to see Kai apparently coming to her rescue from the alpha. Out of everyone she had met in the short time she had been with this pack Kai seemed by far the most reasonable. Then again she had practically spoiled Willow since her arrival. There were far worse things than being put in her charge.
"I told him Ignatius wont let me stay, even if I wanted to. He doesn't like having his possessions taken." She answered honestly. "I also told him that if I am taken back then I'll be forced to run in the hunt." The second part of her statement was a bit quieter and she finally picked up her glass to take the first sip of the sweet wine. It was far sweeter and more rich than anything she had before. Even when she bought herself meals in town she never dared to touch any sort of alcohol. Servants weren't worthy of such a luxury. "He also asked about Silverfang's numbers and how to bring the pack down. I don't know those answers I'm afraid."
"If I'm not to be a servant.. then what am I?" She wanted to know her role to this pack. Though it was likely they had yet to figure that out either. "I'm very grateful for everything you've done for me, but I'm not sure how I can repay any of you." Though this was the first time she had met the alpha she knew she needed to extend her gratitude to him as well, else he could take offense and lash out to her. Every wolf's actions was an extension of the alpha's will after all, or at least that's what she had been taught.
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Post by Blindside Tex on Mar 12, 2021 10:11:59 GMT -5
Kai’s crystal hues watched the woman, she still leaned upon the table, her body mostly turned away from Willow, but her head lay to the side as she listened to her and watched her expressions. A smile curved up her lips as she watched Willow finally drink from the glass of wine. “So he’s pouting.” She replied a laugh came over her lips. “He may be older than me, but sometimes he acts like a young pup.” She stood finally from her position and walked over to the bookcase. Her eyes looked over the books as she listened to Willow question more.
The lycan turned and tilted her head as Willow mentioned that she was grateful. A smile curved up her lips, it was inviting, intoxicating. It was the sort of smile that could melt the heart of most. “Sweet Willow darling, you my dear are under the protection of the Blackridge pack. My brother’s wolf chose you….and I’m not entirely certain what reason. But he chose to bring you to our home. You are our guest...in a way.” She tilted her head once again as she turned back to the bookcase. “Our pack is much different than the Silverfang. We do not use servants, I’ve told you this much. Our humans that we choose for the hunt?” She turned again, her arms crossed loosely over her body, “Well, those humans have committed great crimes. It is more of an execution than anything. I go to town and find the most disgusting scum that I can and lure them from town on the night of the hunt. Drunk as can be.” She laughed. “We only pick 3 each year. My brothers and I are in charge of that. Though I usually have to make a decision for Armin.” She leaned against the edge of the bookcase.
Kai seemed to think a moment, it wasn’t an everyday occurrence that she had to explain their pack or their ways to an outsider. She cleared her throat then, “Ignatius would be an idiot to try to retrieve you from our pack. At this point hopefully the mutt that he took you from tells him a lie that you’ve been killed. Our pack has absorbed several other packs over the past 5 years and my Alpha only grows stronger. Rhett is trying to slow the toxic nature of some of the other packs...if not it may end up like the Greyscale pack...they were discovered by hunters...and each and every last one of that pack was killed for sport….all because they were careless...they showed the humans what they were...” She shook her head in disgust. “We do not show ourselves to humans, and we do damn well at hiding it. We can’t have neighboring pups of other packs giving our kind a bad name.”
She drew in a breath and then offered a soft smile, once again it was as sweet as can be. “Does that...answer your question?” She asked after a moment of silence.
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