Welcome Home (Open. Meur & Allies)

[kahara]

ODYSSEIA, BALTHIER II, CARNAL, DEVIN, FEAR, KODIAC, MORGAN, NERRY, ABYSSIA, APOLLO, CHRONOS, KADIN, KADYN, SLITHER, VINCENT, WALTER, KAINE, MORTHOR, ASESINO

[ALLIES - CALIVER] CAESAR, ISON

Silence fell as the king spoke; his voice demanding attention. Carnal even fell silent, though she bristled as the king's gaze fell on Vitanali and herself. The mother's rage was not unheard of and she even dared to snarl at the king, but she said nothing to challenge his word and merely stepped closer in the direction of her kin. She had so many loved ones to protect still and none would be failed like she failed her others, yet those gone would forever remain a sore spot for Carnal.

Odysseia slowly sat back down as things calmed into a silence all except for Orpheus. She seemed thoughtful as she looked across the many faces of Meurtrier subordinates, but her gaze was never revealing. The counciless looked upon every child of hers presented. For a moment her gaze lingered longest on Vincent, a king once he may have been, but no longer. Odysseia raised her head and stared off into the distance when Caesar's voice broke out from behind the crowd. He had approached closer to the throne.

"King Orpheus and King Daemon. Ison and I are merely allies. I believe he and I should head back to our Pride to inform the others of this." He bowed his head and awaited for some form of dismissal from the kings. Odysseia glanced toward the brothers to see their reaction.

Meanwhile, throughout the rest of the group, silence again. Balthier II had begun to knead the ground from anxiety. Devin and Fear exchanged shocked and uncertain glances, but a moment of 'brotherly' reassurance and all seemed fine. Asesino bit her lip, but it was clear she had a lot to say. Morgan rolled her shoulders and appeared excited at the aspect of some action. Her whole life had been, after all, rather sheltered. Abyssia had spotted and bee-lined for Vincent, nearly tumbling over Kadin and Kadyn, letting out a huff and scrambling the rest of the way until Walter whacked his tail in her face and quietly told her to pay attention. Then he stood.

"I have a suggestion for the pride." Walter cleared his throat loudly. Kodiac glanced at his son in surprise, curious wide eyes wondering what he was thinking.

[Avian]

The spy kept his solid mask on, neither Carnal's outburst nor Orpheus's words stirred his face. Breaking his cover now would most likely lead to his certain death, and what about Corona and the cubs? They had nothing to do with the Crimson witch's scheme, but Kenji was not so sure that Meutrier would think so if he was caught. No, Kenji would have to carefully evalutate his moves, even more from now on since the king suspected a spy among Meutrier's members.
If he could only find a way to sneak out. The news from Shadow Veldt would surely amuse the queen, but Kenji saw no loopholes he could take advantage of as of yet. Time would tell..
For now, he'd just continue to harvest information, linger in the background like a puppet, leeching off Meutrier til his time came.

[drifter]

Zalui Xemvoi | Project Caliver

Yes, the youth of the pride were going to need training. He held confidence in his younger brood that the training he had given them already was enough to prepare them for what was to come. He knew they would need more of course. Harder, more vigorous exercises. Zalui would see to it that any session he held for his own would also be open for the other young.
He listened to all that was said but, as he sat back, his mind traveled over the possible trainings.


Carnal's outburst brought Project up on all cylinders. For him her threat was not for Kimiko's family. For him her threat was to his family. He made no move forward or sounds of rebuttal, but his emerald gaze hardened onto the female with great distaste. Eyes shifted to meet Orpheus as he made his final say in regards to the young under Kimiko's claws. But it also wasn't enough. Not for Project. So he finally spoke up. He was never one to raise his voice above a crowd such as this but he did so now. He wanted everyone to hear his words and understand. "If that one chance is forfeited by them then I, and I alone, will be the one to take their life." His gaze plastered back onto Carnal. Kimiko had take her son but Project be damned if he allowed the Donovan daughter the satisfaction of taking his. "If anyone other than I takes the life of my own blood then I will not rest until I take theirs." This was not a request, nor a demand. It was simply fact. And the Caliver was fully ready to accept the punishment of killing another Pride member if it resorted to it. He had given his children life and only he would be the one to take it away.
Attention slowly slid from the angry mother to another who spoke out. One of her other children. That was as much as he knew of him. He could not recall his name.

[TheWG]

Kazbek roared after his mate did, supportive to the fact that when Kimiko's time came, he would be on the front line as well. Project's louder words in reply stirred an angry feeling in him to the fact that he was talking back to his love, but he held back his tongue nevertheless. Despite the want to rip into and maul the witch's brood himself, and give Carnal the same opportunity, only the leaders could deny Project such a request. Who was he to say the male couldn't destroy his own spawn? As gruesome as that suddenly sounded... Kazbek couldn't even imagine.

Meanwhile Circa sat back, letting the leaders speak aloud without her interruption. She had no qualms about their decisions, and as per usual, she would follow their lead without question. If war was to be had, war was to be had, but she had hardly a worry in her mind about it. If Kimiko was relying only on those children who left with her, and perhaps a few more wayward stragglers along the way, then she was still no match for Meurtrier's strength. Not even with hocus pocus. Circa was confident that this issue would be a smaller one- at least, that was her hope.

He waited for Vitanali to answer him, but it was clear that- at least for the time being- he wouldn't get an answer. Especially not with all this commotion. He could feel the younger 'ess still fuming beside him, and as much as he wanted to remain as infuriated as her, a pain began to sear into his skull. He brought his paw up to his forehead, growling under his breath at the gnawing pain in his frontal lobe. It was then he realized how tired he actually was, when was the last time he had even thought of sleep? They had been so focused on anger that he had become distracted from his actual needs, and the grueling memories of Mok's death had him plagued with an empty appetite and forlorn dreams replaying over and over again each time he did try to sleep... He was exhausted. As soon as this meeting was over, he would confront Iarri, perhaps she would have a remedy.

[kahara]

Dingo, Taboo, TimberWolfie, @anbrea, Caylis

Reminder that this is a very, very important roleplay. Bump notice for users not yet involved.

[katluver458]

Daemon _Donovan, Arc '^Apocalypse' Crimson-_Donovan, Emerson _Donovan, Iodine _Dahill, Memoria ^Whittaker-_Donovan, Rayn _Donovan, Titus _Hulick, Yui ^Gurnako-_Donovan, Fragment ^Gurnako-_Donovan, Cyprus _Sulliveri, Dakota ^Donovan-_Kannon, Paris ^Crimson-_Caliver, Blanca ^Donovan-_VanArkle, Polyphemus '^Ka'ein' Xemvoi-_Donovan, Wrench ^Dahill-_Krow

A resounding chorus of roars and yowls ripped through the very heart of camp, the promise of vengeance, the battlecry of not many singles, but one unit. The Voice of the Kingdom was stronger than ever, and it would not be silenced.

Daemon nodded sharply to every command, every order Orpheus gave, as always standing firm aside his brother. Like every time before in their short reign, their thoughts were the same, there was no need for him to second the motions. Their decision before to give those unfortunate cubs that went with Kimiko a second chance still stood, and he silently praised him for it, for remembering and honoring such a promise to Cocaine's grandchildren, to Project's children. Once the ferver was died down in just the slightest, for a few others to speak if they wished, he too let himself be heard this time, giving his attention to Caesar and Ison. "Of course. Your assistance in this endeavor was appreciated, even if it didn't pan out. Return home as soon as you feel you are able. Alert Lady Ryssor and Queen Caitlyn of what has happened, and if they wish to meet to decide our next move, then we will." He nodded. "Or if they wish to just leave it be, then there is nothing more we can ask of them." And that was that, giving a quick glance to his brother-King to see if he felt the same, for once a bit unsure with this change of attitude within him.

It was stirring yes, but it somewhat worried him as well, feelings shared by their adoptive mother Samara it seemed, judging by her look. He'd never seen him in such a state. Especially when he gave particular notice to Carnal of course, for clear reason...And also Vitanali, the young female who had gone with him. Her daughter. Connor's sister. What happened in that cursed forest...? Mm, perhaps he was just exhausted from the past few weeks. Yes, that had to be it.

Then Walter, usually such a quiet and peaceful male, spoke up. "Suggestion? Of course, what is it?" He encouraged, though the Kannon didn't get the chance when Project also stepped up to the plate, once again jumping and dividing his attention. When Walter proposed his idea, then of course he would listen, but he only had two ears, and what he was hearing moved him. Brave male, to demand to be the one to do such a thing, but as their father, of course it should only be by his claws. There could be no mistakes when acting upon cleaning the wounds -- Visible and invisible-- That Kimiko had left in and around the pride. "I will hold you to that, then. Hear that?" He bellowed to them all. "No one TOUCHES the Caliver-Crimson children, should they refuse to come home! Anyone who does, action will be taken. We will not fall into that damn witch's trap and go around killing eachother out of spite, as she and her son did. That's what she wants. We have to stand strong." He reaffirmed, looking them all over with a solid, sweeping gaze, waiting for more to be said. You couldn't call them honorable in the sense of the word, but they were in their own sort of way.

[Caylis]

Evangeline remains where she is.

Caylis doesn't move an inch. Meurtrier hasn't changed a bit, it seemed. She keeps an eye out for her children.

Rin's expression was unreadable, she eyed Mirth who seemed to be nearby. It seemed she was thinking of the same thing, however, her head bolted to notice the grieving mother howling in anguish, fury and spite. She couldn't find words -- no one could -- to heal the grieving mother. Time could either destroy or heal, and right now time was only doing Meurtrier no good. She, personally now had her own opinions about her mother and her siblings. She eyes Mirth because it seemed out of everyone else with their anger and hatred running and bleeding out of them -- though it cannot be seen physically obviously -- Mirth seemed to have the same opinion as she did. Lord Daemon, Orpheus and her father's words pierced her soul. She knew now.

This cycle would never end at this point. No one could have any true peace in this empire. Something needed to be done.

[LAD]

Orpheus, Ali, Darian, Darius, DarkMoon, DarkStar, Devyn, Flame II/Ephriam, Iris, London, Lorelei, Malluce, Saku, Samara, Shaw, Shinku, Neraine, Vespera, Vitanali, Finn, Ebony, Kenya, Leonardo, Zoria


Vitanali had remained silent once more but Cross' sudden movement pulled her from her thoughts and she turned to look at him - for once glad she was far from her supposed 'family'. They didn't deserve such a title. Mok had it right from the beginning, as did Cross. She felt spiteful towards her mother's angry words that still rang in her mind, and now even more so when Project spoke. But even so, her gaze remained on Cross, her anger dissipating for a moment as concern took it's place. "Are you okay?" She murmured softly. Until her name was sharply called out in command. Her head snapped forward, eyes wide. And then narrowed in anger.

Orpheus took note of Carnal's snarl towards him - and then her stepping closer to her family. Part of him felt the retaliation towards her look stirring deep within, a rumble starting from his lungs, filling his chest - but it never made it's ways past his maw, never made a sound in the open air. His eyes moved from Carnal's frame easily enough as it landed on Vitanali - still on the opposite side of the crowd pressed against Cross. As if a decision was made, he gave a near imperceptible nod before his attention was pulled to Caesar. And Ison as he was mentioned. Before he could get a word in, Daemon was speaking. Ears twitched, but Orpheus did not spare his brother a glance and remained silent, listening to what he was saying. He nodded, this time noticeable and open to be seen by all.

But not much time passed before another spoke... Walter? Carnal's other living child from the first litter. How... Endearing. Only one child remained from each father - and one despised her leader. Orpheus wondered what the boy was thinking. And once more, Daemon encouraged him to go on before Orpheus even thought to open his maw.

And then Project was speaking. Blood red eyes laid upon the Caliver male and Orpheus did not stop his claws from scratching the rock beneath them - he couldn't deny he was satisfied it had barely made a noise. Still, there was no doubt his brother, Circa, and Odysseia would have noticed. Project's words both pleased and displeased him all in one. Attacking another pride member was not the way to go - not any more. If he did so, he'd be no better than Kimiko himself. This attack on pride members was to stop. Immediately. His brother addressed Project, then the pride. But Orpheus had other things on his mind as he stepped forward. "That action however.. Will not be taken by you, Project." Orpheus' eyes glittered dangerously. "Any ill will towards each other, towards our family, our members. It stops here."

Orpheus took another step forwards, his gaze sweeping over the crowd. "What Daemon says stands. This, we grant to Project, he will deal with his own children. However... There will be no more attacks from one member to another. Your pridemates are not the enemy! If you turn against your pridemate - you are no better than Kimiko, than Koma. And we are above them!" He hissed out. "If there is something that must be taken care of - you must put faith in your leaders, your Commander, your Couciless. In us. Daemon, Odysseia, Circa and I. We will take care of it." And then he whipped his head from one side to the other, his gaze landing on Vitanali.

"Vitanali! Come forth." He growled out. And he watched as her head snapped towards him in shock first and then anger filled her gaze. His claws scraped the rock beneath them again, his eyes challenging hers once more, daring her to defy him once again. She didn't. Standing, she rose from her place beside Cross, her steps stiff, body racked with tension. She looked as if someone had taken control of her body against her will and she was trying to fight them off. But none the less, she made her way to the front of the crowd - where all could see the healing gashes on her sides. Her shoulders. The patrol knew exactly what happened to her, and it was a shame Project had to bring up what he did for her to face such humiliation - but Orpheus would spare no one.

"Observe, my fellow Meurtrians. In the past, it is clear we may have been far too lenient with such defiance. However... This is what happens to those who defy. Those who must remember who leads and who is in charge. There will be no more defying us, defying each other, no more attacks on one to another without reasonable cause, without logical explanations. Listen to your leaders. Meurtrier stand together. We are family, a team. We listen to each other. As I said earlier, you are either with us, or not at all." His gaze landed on Vitanali once more, eyeing her as her lips pulled back into a furious silent snarl at him and he dared her to do as she wished, to attack him right then and there again as she did back in the forest. He watched as she crouched, wanting to follow through with her wishes, her wings spreading.

Orpheus barely moved, not even preparing himself should she leap at him. The whole pride was watching her and he'd no doubt that another would leap at her for her foolishness. He could see it in the corner of his eyes, in his peripheral. Vespera in particular as Odysseia's little girl prepared herself, her own wings spread to launch at her friend. Her green eyes were wide with surprise at Vitanali's vehemence, but Orpheus, once more, was not concerned. He wasn't concerned with Vitanali on the patrol - he wasn't concerned here.

And just as he thought, he flicked his tail in clear dismissal of her as Vitanali straightened, her breathing harsh as he did so from the front of the gathering and Vitanali whipped around, leaving the meeting and moving towards the direction of the dens immediately. Then his gaze turned to Walter, "What is it you wished to suggest?" As if none of it happened, his tone was calm once more, devoid of his furious rage earlier.


There was a silent shock that ranged among some of the members at what they'd just witnessed. Some more than others. Shinku and DarkStar were devoid of emotion - this was another thing they both remembered clearly from the past. Their children pressed back into their respective fathers, but neither paid them any mind as the three little ones did so. DarkMoon stared nervously at the display, at Vitanali's anger. Just what exactly happened on that patrol? Vespera was another one who stared with open surprise. She shifted, wishing to go after her friend. Her gaze sought out Neraine's and saw the darkness that was held in her other friends gaze and knew something had definitely gone down. Just... What was it? Samara's brow furrowed even more - though it was hardly noticeable with her black fur and Devyn shifted closer to Carnal when he saw what had happened to her daughter, his niece! He merely hoped Carnal would not go beserk. Iris watched on with mute horror. She was not used to this. Ali and Malluce shifted, their fur brushing against one another as they stared at their uncle - one with wide eyes, the other with a knowing darkness. Malluce knew his father had been this brutal once - but Ali didn't. And many others of the pride had also been granted a much more luxurious life style compared to what was being re-bestowed upon them at this moment. It was... Certainly odd to say the least. Still... At Orpheus redirecting his attention, gazes flicked back to Walter, some still watching Vitanali's retreating back.

No Posting Order.

ashbaer: Duude, sorry I missed you with Martyr. I thought I got everyone in the first rounds of tagging, but guess not, sorry man!

Not really gonna tag anymore after this though, we've given plenty of tags enough to where people know it's important~

[kahara]

ODYSSEIA, BALTHIER II, CARNAL, DEVIN, FEAR, KODIAC, MORGAN, NERRY, ABYSSIA, APOLLO, CHRONOS, KADIN, KADYN, SLITHER, VINCENT, WALTER, KAINE, MORTHOR, ASESINO

[ALLIES - CALIVER] CAESAR, ISON

Caesar dipped his head and turned to leave with Ison close at this side. They only stopped to look back as Orpheus displayed their 'new' lack of tolerance for disobedience. It was hard to tell what Caesar thought by the bland look on his face. Though something stirred in Ison. His gaze darkened before both turned back on their path, headed into the Veldt Mountains for The Caliver Pride.

Odysseia had calmed down from what little she had worked herself up into. From her spot she watched in silence and nodded her head occasionally with the word of their kings. Though as it dragged on, if one looked closely, they may have noticed her gaze distant; in another time remembering another king. It was Carnal's aggravated roar that snapped her attention back in place, along with the shocked gazes of others falling on the heart-broken, angry mother.

"What kind of kings do that?!" She wailed in anger, yet she dared not move from her spot as she burst forth another emotional roar. Just when it seemed as if Carnal may leap forward and attempt to take down the kings herself, she turned sharply and began to race after her daughter, trying so hard to call her name; finding it stuck somewhere in her throat.

Odysseia's only reaction was a slight tail flick. She lowered her head and whispered to the kings, "Carnal has always been loyal. This is too much for her at once. Give her time." Then the counciless raised her head slowly and looked out over the shocked - and less so - faces of the crowd. Particularly that of her children. All of her children were strong and Odysseia did not, for a single moment, doubt that they would be loyal and cooperative with the rule of the current kings.

Vincent, however, kept his emotions well masked. He glanced around the clearing and watched as Carnal took off after Vitanali. Another caught his attention. It was Abyssia. She had managed to creep along, no doubt not unnoticed, to where Vincent sat. He let out a hefty sigh but didn't protest her being there. Not that he had much of a chance. Walter had cleared his throat and began to speak.

"Thanks." His voice cracked for a moment; slightly shaken by the display his kings had just presented. "I think the youth of the pride should have two to three assigned mentors to teach them how to properly fight, defend, track, and hunt." Walter cautiously threw his idea into the open. Much to his surprise, Nerry leaped right in after him.

"Sorry to leap in too, but alongside Walter's idea, I think all pride members should have a very basic understanding of herbs. So should you ever be on a patrol without a healer, you can at least take care of the basics. Such as cuts, bruises, headaches and the sort." Nerry stood tall, proud of his idea. Well.. it wasn't so much his idea, just an add-on to Walter's. Walter gave Nerry a nod and then both looked at the kings for a reply.

Balthier II smiled at his nephew's bright idea and nodded his head in agreement. He had learned a few things about herbs in his time working alongside Nerry. Maybe Balthier II would enroll as an official healer for the pride and be taught more. He could honor his mother's memory better that way. Devin and Fear exchanged glances once more but neither did protest. In fact, after a moment of heavy consideration, they bowed their heads in new-found respect for their kings. Kodiac gazed on proudly at his son, Asesino nodded her head approvingly of the kings strong attitude, and even Morgan echoed her mothers actions.

Not all were as proud or impressed. Some were shocked and scared. Mostly the younger generation, whom had known nothing of war or true battles. Only of soft leaders and the freedom to march as they pleased. The twins backed into their mother nervously (and upon realizing their sheepish display, puffed out their chests). Slither eyed his adoptive mother, Odysseia, for comfort. When he found her gaze in a different time; he turned to Apollo, Chronos, Kaine, and Morthor. Apollo seemed eager to impress, though intimidated by the way he stood, not as confident as before. Morthor looked as worried as Kaine and Chronos; which was fairly worried.

[drifter]

Project Caliver | Iarri Kannon

Project seated himself once more. He found satisfaction in Daemon's support on such a matter; Orpheus as well. Though he wasn't surprised when the threat he tossed out was focused on. He didn't expect them to take that part lightly. Project reacted very little as he was addressed by Orpheus. He had already made a scene, he wasn't going to make another.

Iarri tilted her head as she examined Vitanali when the girl stepped forward. So much was happening at once in this meeting that it was almost impossible to absorb it all. It was as if all the drama Meurtrier had not seen in some weeks was now being unleashed in one whole sitting. The Red Healer took note of the younger 'ess's wound. How she had gotten it Iarri did not know, but it was clear by Orpheus that it had been no accident.
Vitanali departed, Carnal on her tail, and Iarri would see to it that the injured 'ess would receive proper treatment.
Attention moved over to Walter as he was finally able to suggest his idea. She had to admit that it was indeed an excellent thought. But it was Nerry's add on that really caught her interest. "Indeed." She commented lightly, giving the doctor and Walter a supporting nod. "The pride is growing every few months it seems. My nurses are well on their way and I have the utmost faith in them, but they are not ready for the big leagues yet. Having only two healers can be a hassle. For members to know a few things here and there I believe would be greatly beneficial to both parties."

[Blair]

Mirth

Mirth listened carefully as Orpheus spoke of a new regime- in a way, at least. It shook her, if truth were told, and she wasn't sure if she could get use to practically zero alone time. She was slightly startled by the thought of there being a spy, but otherwise nodded to trusting each other. When one of the leaders finally finished, however, she wondered how long they would have to be paired up, in her case it was more like a grouping- which seemed bothersome.

She did not voice her opinion, however, either being too scared to do so or not being strong enough to say it- she couldn't decide which, if not both. Then the two allies spoke up and were on their way out of the territory with Daemon's dismissal. Her interest piqued when another male- she thought his name was Walter, but couldn't be too sure- had a suggestion. She found him to be quite brave to be putting thoughts out there to a large crowd- especially the leaders.

Her attention had been on Walter completely until another male spoke- Project this time. His words sent chills down her spine as he blatantly admitted to being capable of attacking another member out of spite. However, it seemed he would have his way- although she supposed it was only fair. Still, the thought of attacking another member was just...And then Orpheus was speaking again. Her head whipped around to see him, his voice practically commanding her attention. And although she agreed with most things the king was saying, what they needed was trust in each other at the moment, not threats to one another.

However, his next words froze the young girl. She observed Vitanali, cringing slightly at the sight of her wounds but she gathered herself once more. She would need to get used to seeing blood and ripped skin tissue, however, if indeed they would be going to war some day. However, she couldn't help but slowly sit down, too shocked by Orpheus's cruelty. She didn't look away though, she needed to see it with her own eyes. She grew tense when she noticed Vitanali's movements- as if she wished to attack Orpheus! Eyes widened slightly, almost pleading her not to do it. Even more cruel, however, could be how Orpheus clearly did not care- or just simply wasn't concerned with the female anymore. She watched silently as Vita was dismissed, leaving the meeting entirely. Lowering her head then, she mumbled to herself, "Horrible.." Her voice was so low that the only other creatures that could possibly have heard her family that she was right next to.

Flinching slightly from Carnal's roar, she looked up to see and hear the rage of the grieving mother. Although Walter soon took the stage with both of the kings approval. She assumed she would need to learn how to fight, defend, track, and hunt just like any other Meurtrian. Although, when Nerry jumped in she couldn't help but agree more. When Iarri spoke, she couldn't help but agree more. As a healer-in-training herself, she knew she wasn't ready. She needed much more practice, more refinement. She moved toward her teacher, whispering, not too confident to say it out loud to the leaders. "If we had some sort of chart to go by, like what the herb looks like- drawings of it, if you will. It could be looked at by anyone at any time for reference." Hopefully, it would be much easier than taking herbs from the stock and ultimately having to put them back meticulously. She imagined any one of them could easily etch into a rock the look of each herb, maybe even having a more permanent method of describing them rather than by word-of-mouth alone. Of course, outings to gather herbs would be just as beneficial, but as the winter progressed there were less and less herbs actually out there. Making for less beneficial, on-paws experience.

[ashbaer]

The grouping and speeches went on, as they always did, Martyr had been present though quietly sitting in the background, he'd barely seemed attentive, though he'd watched and listened as eagerly as one could. It wasn't like he paid much attention on a regular day to day basis, hell he hadn't even noticed others had been missing. So when others roared and voiced their opinions he sat silently, didn't really matter to him, Martyr didn't have to many thoughts on any of these matters; he'd do whatever was asked of him.

Libra and Scorpius sit quietly among their parents and/or siblings, listening curiously and attentively, neither fully understanding but trying to, Libra especially who sat wide eyed at her father's side.

(I read all the posts so I know what's going on. Sorry I was late.)

[Avian]

The internal bickering among the members amused the spy. Perhaps Edel had a chance after all? The hoard of members wouldn't matter if loyalthy and trust weren't present. How could they stand together and fight if they kept giving the others quick glares of suspiciousness? The queen would be most pleased to hear this, Kenji was certain of it. If he could only find a way to safely send the news to her. The new rules were pretty strict with little room for loopholes.

[Caylis]

Evangeline's eyes flickered towards the situation. How depressing... Vitanali's wounds, and Carnal bolting after her. Tension was in the air, the Caliver wasn't sure of how to make of the none-privacy rule, however.

Caylis's expression is unreadable, she stands firm, calm, collected. Her blue optics shifted towards the Donovan girl who was beaten rather cruelly. She knew her children were safe, but one thought lingered in her mind.

Would she stay here and be eternally loyal to Meurtrier or leave the Veldt once again?

Rin's eyes narrowed only the slightest. She hears Walter and Nerry's suggestions and she speaks up. "May I suggest something as well?" she asks, her voice ringing out loud and clear, but not of pride or anger. She could guess that some would look at her and her siblings as if they were abominations, but she didn't care. She waits for the kings' response.

Icarus waits, eyeing his father only momentarily before going back to where he was before.

[katluver458]

Daemon _Donovan, Arc '^Apocalypse' Crimson-_Donovan, Emerson _Donovan, Iodine _Dahill, Memoria ^Whittaker-_Donovan, Rayn _Donovan, Titus _Hulick, Yui ^Gurnako-_Donovan, Fragment ^Gurnako-_Donovan, Cyprus _Sulliveri, Dakota ^Donovan-_Kannon, Paris ^Crimson-_Caliver, Blanca ^Donovan-_VanArkle, Polyphemus '^Ka'ein' Xemvoi-_Donovan, Wrench ^Dahill-_Krow

No, his words were not misplaced, as he first thought. Orpheus hadn't changed in the least, but he was hardened. There was a difference, something they would all have to learn and adjust to it seemed, as harshly proven through Vitanali's example. So, that's what happened. And as, since he always and would always continue to trust his dual-King's decisions, he knew him lashing out against one of his own pridemembers was for very good reason. Especially since as she was also their grand-niece, almost direct kin to them. Orph looked dangerous and abusive of course, as did he upon occasion, but in all actuality, he was a good, calm male...The yin to his yang, in a way. It would take a lot to push him past the point of attacking. And the young 'ess had managed to get him there on their little hunting expedition. They'd have to discuss the matter in detail later though, for him to get the whole story.

But what's this? He saw a bit of disarray and upset over the matter breaking out on their faces, in their hushed tones, starting with Carnal of course, but consisting of mostly the younger members. Most of who, he was suddenly reminded, had never seen such a thing. Time to do a little damage control, though much in a way a stern, but caring father would to his children. They needed to know (like he did) that what their Dominant male did, he did only because he had to. But he didn't need come across as if he was just shrugging it off either, to coddle them at let them know that 'it will be okay'; This had to be treated like a learning experience. "You all seemed surprised at this. Would you have wanted your King to play favorites and let her insubordinate actions out in the field go unpunished? Would I or any of our past Kings have done any differently? I should think not." He gave fair warning. His brother was right. Defiance of that kind of magnitude could not be allowed to go on any longer, not if they wanted to make it through. "Listen, and hear what we have to say, and this will never have to happen again. Understood?" He flicked the thick of his tail once, a final hit on the subject.

Odysseia calmed him a bit after that, reassuring them that their niece was in a broken state, sighing. Carnal would be allowed to speak out on his part, only just this one last time, but he couldn't vouch for Orpheus. If he chose to address her own outburst, then so be it.

Walter's idea caught his interest though, his and Nerry's both, and he gave a brief smile, a sharp nod of approval. "Yes, of course. With a few adolescents prepping to become warriors, and a few cubs getting ready to graduate from the nursery to start their own basic training, that works out perfectly. Parents can take their own time to teach their children whatever other skills they think are necessary too, or to help with their weak points, and could even supervise if they wanted to ensure only the best is being done." He nodded again, looking between the two, even Iarri when she gave her own two cents on the idea, thinking it over. "And I trust you and your nurses and such will cover the rest." Since that area wasn't at all in his expertise, the whole herbs-and-healing part of this new grand scheme would be completely and one hundred percent up to their particular branch of the pride.

And finally, Rin piped up too from her place, hoping to tack on something else to consider, and he nodded. "Of course. This kind of communication between us is key. We are all united against this new danger, remember that. And there are no 'wrong' or 'bad' plans if you think it will help us bring the enemy to it's knees." He encouraged this in fact! Especially since the higher-up's secret plan to take this problem out clearly didn't go over so well. The Black lord was also grateful for the fact that they were painfully slowly starting to come back around again. This was not the time for petty inner squabbles over how the subjects think the dominants should go about enacting punishments and rules. His attention turned to his brother, brows raised expectantly.