A Blood Moon Rises (Important)

[kahara]

RENO DONOVAN, TANZEL SULDAN, DARRIUM SULDAN, OMEN SULDAN, SLAUGHTER, SIAKON

[/i] Reno did not necessarily blame Jericho for all that had happened, but he would not turn a blind eye to the fact that taking Atryn away from Meurtrier was not in the agenda. Reno had hoped to talk to Najisi sooner about this, but it was too late for that now. "Anyone who can fight should come. However.. I would argue we do not call an attack on Meurtrier unless they should attack first. It only gives them more fuel against us." Reno swept his gaze over the crowd. It landed on Atryn. Atryn was young and impressionable. Yet Reno could not feel bad about keeping him captive in La Morte. "Otherwise, very good plan."

"Can do." Tanzel said. She gave a nod and Slaughter inched forward.

"I'd opt to stay back. Unfortunately, as you can see, I will stick out rather sorely in volcano, and I am still recovering from that nasty blow from before." Slaughter said. He didn't like sitting out, but chances were his fur would blow their cover faster than a cub's crying. Darrium and Omen stood closely together. They whispered among themselves. Omen seemed a bit pushy, but finally, Darrium stepped forward.

"I realize y'all just trying to do what's best for the pride, trust me, I get that. But is fighting fire with fire really such a great idea? It's Jericho's fault that Meurtrier found our home in the first place. He took a cub from his ma' - and ain't we against that? Or has war turned us into nothing more than what we claim Meurtrier to be?" His gaze was stern and questioning, aimed at Reno and Najisi. Siakon gasped and pushed forward.

"Hey! My mother is just trying to do the best. She doesn't need your skepticism!" She protested. Darrium scoffed and brushed Siakon aside.

"She does if she thinks this is a good idea!"[/ul][/blockquote]

[OnyxOryx]

Najisi Kain

Their protests.. It made her heart sink. Even Reno.. She sighed, taking a long while to think. If they wanted anyone to blame for this.. they should be blaming her. It was her fault this war even exists.. She tried so hard to do what was best for the pride. Between balancing each members needs and the pride's needs. It was difficult. She tried so hard.. and failed.

She could see that. The way Omen looked at her. She saw the doubt in Omen's eyes. Her fur bristled as she watched her seem to whisper to Darrium. She was losing the support of her own pride.

"I do not agree with taking the cub from Meur.. But war is war. We are desperately trying to scrape by. We are all family. Is throwing Jericho to the wolves really any better? To turn on one of our own for a simple mistake? If you wish to blame someone. Blame me. I will gladly own up to it then."

She said sternly. Her chest tightened as she spoke. La Morte forgot who it was.. Another sigh heaved and she turned to look Reno in the eyes. Her once vibrant purples dimmed with sorrow and exhaustion. The point of bringing the pride with them was to help defend against the ambush. Not launch an attack. But without the trust and support of her members.. Najisi knew the war would be lost. LA Morte... needed a new queen..

"I will go alone. This war.. started with me. We cannot fight Meurtrier without loss. We can't keep losing members. Family. Loved ones. The war ends with Atryn's return.. and my surrender."

She announced to the pride. It was all she could see anymore and had been contemplating doing this for quite some time. She wasn't the strong queen the pride needed to win this war. Hell, it was becoming more apparent that she wasn't even strong enough to let this pride survive.. At least.. with this.. she could end the suffering of her family.

[kahara]

RENO, DARRIUM, OMEN, TANZEL, SIAKON, SLAUGHTER

[/i] His voice boomed. "No one goes. We will not attempt the full moon. If Cocaine wanted Atryn, he would have taken his son when he had the chance. He feared for something, for once, and although it is risky to double cross the commander, he has already double crossed us. No one is going." He allowed things to quiet down.

Darrium seemed a bit cross and quiet, while Siakon had held her tongue. Once they all calmed, he turned to Najisi. "I will not allow you to hand yourself over to Meurtrier. This is not your fault. And we are not going to play the blame game. We are better than that. If you disagree, leave now. We need only those who make us stronger." He shoot Darrium a stern glare. Once he was content that the bloodbeast would not protest, he looked back at Najisi. "I suggest we send Atryn by himself, guided by phoenix. We will have a chance to get back Zenith AND Osic. But it is clear we are not ready for that. We will rise in numbers and strengthen our ties across the land, first." He looked around, daring someone to speak up.[/ul][/blockquote]

[Caylis]

Influence's eyes widened, "Lady Najisi.." he said before nodding to Reno. They couldn't do this alone, they needed to become stronger in any way possible. And he would volunteer to do so. He rose a paw, "I swear, La Morte.. that I will fight to the death, help in any way I can, if I have to for my pride. You gave me a home when nobody else did, it's the least I can do for you. We're all a family, you both taught us that and it's too late for me to back down, I never, ever betray the ones I love. We may not be perfect, but we keep trying, right?" he spoke, his eyes serious.

[LAD]

Jericho, Yasbi, Yasha, Kardei, Camry, Camille, Reno II, Diezel, Cyber, Casey, Amai, Kurai, Kane

Most of the Neko's went quiet for what had been said before a dark gaze fell upon Darrium. Jericho and Kardei both stepped forward together. Kardei was glaring at Darrium. Jericho was looking up at Reno. Kardei spoke first. "My sister will not give herself up simply because two petty creatures disagree with things she has done - things not even on even her shoulders and feel the need to take it out on her. Family stick together. Najisi is protecting her family - Jericho is our brother." He informed them, his glare darkening on Darrium as he stood tall and joined Najisi at her side.

Jericho stepped forward next, joining Najisi. "I believe the pride deserves an explanation from me." He stated, his tail laying gently on Najisi's flank. He looked over at Reno and nodded to him. "I won't go against what either of you say, but it still needs to be heard." His gaze turned to the rest of the pride. "A few months ago Najisi asked me to go to Meurtrier - arrange a meeting with Osic and Carnal, and see if they would speak with Najisi. When I got there, it was only a few hours later that we were called to the first battle. I played on Meurtrier's side, as was my duty. When we got back - Osic was imprisoned and Carnal had made her choice - but Zenith was captured. My decision to go back that second time around was to see if I could bring her home and possibly free Osic too. I could do neither. Osic was stuck deep within the healers' den and Zenith was always with someone. It was a long time that I just sat around, keeping an eye on everyone, gathering as much information as I could.

It was when one of the healers - Nerante - came dragging back Cocaine's ex-mate to the center of Meurtrier's camp that things pretty much fell apart in Meurtrier for a single day. Everyone was gathered there for the most part. But Osic had made it clear he would stay with Meurtrier no matter what happens and I honestly was not able to find Zenith. So while they were all in chaos - I made a split second decision. I took a cub for negotiation. To try and bring my sister some peace in her life by trading a precious life for my sister's kid. I erred. I know this. I took a cub that was the Commander's son. By mistake." Jericho paused here, his gaze landing on Atryn.

"I admit I regret the decision in some ways - Asera lost her life because of my decision. As well as Hajime. But I don't regret the friendship I made with Atryn." His eyes turned back to everyone else, landing on Darrium for a moment. "You forget that while Asera was your granddaughter - she was Najisi's daughter, and Najisi loved her very much so. But you don't see her trying to throw family down the drain. When I first heard about you, I thought you were better than that." He made his opinions clear to Darrium with that one statement. Then he moved on. "Atryn is not to be blamed for my decision - nor is Najisi - as Reno said, no one is to play a blame game -" Another pause and he glanced at Reno. "But I will take fault for what has happened - and no one can change my mind on that." He laid his gaze on Najisi, "Do not sacrifice yourself for what has happened here. Even if Darrium or Omen has lost faith in you - I have not. Nor has Kardei, or Reno, or any of our family, this I know." He paused to let this sink in for a moment....

Then his gaze went to Atryn, and his voice softened considerably - as did his expression. "Try not to feel troubled by this Atryn. I cannot apologize to you enough for what you have experienced while here, but know that..." He paused and swallowed, "Know that I will cherish the moments we've had and what you have taught me." He said in front of all to hear. He had formed a bond with that cub - and he had no shame in letting everyone know exactly what he thought. Besides, this was long over due.

Then he looked back at Reno, "If it is as you say - and no one is to go to this meeting, I would like to personally escort Atryn at least half way there - so that way Meurtrier will not know that I have been too close to them." He owed it to Atryn. One last journey.

Everyone else was quieted by this long drawn out confession from Jericho. It was much needed really - the pride needed to hear this, to hear his side of things, hear his reasoning. And the way he had called it out to everyone... Was quite something to witness. However it seemed Jericho was not done.

"I said all this before you because you all deserved to know. Please grant me this last request, Reno, Najisi. And for the rest of you - do not forget by being here in this pride, by agreeing to have joined, you have agreed to join a family. And if we do not stick together and support one another - then it is as Reno has said. We will fall apart at the seams." He glanced around one last time before looking back at the leaders. Kardei gave him a deep nod, one of respect.

[Caylis]

Influence gave a deep nod to Jericho, he had been with the spy upset as well.. but since Najisi's brother had confessed, Influence respected him. He sighed, looking to Omen and Darrium, lowering his gaze. He was worried, for everyone.. if there was anything he could do to help.. he would do it.

"M'lord Reno? What can I do to help?" he said, looking up to the lord.

Azul's eyes teared up, just watching them all suffer like this.. she dug her claws in the ground, she sniffled before walking away from the gathering, she was sensitive, especially in times of war and stress. She sprinted away, she couldn't deal with this.. not now.

Caylis was telepathic, she could hear what they were saying, but only little by little, she sighed, lowering her gaze. In a way.. she felt she wanted to spit in disgust but.. in another way.. she felt.. bad for them. They were suffering, did Meurtrier really do that much? Guilt swept over her, she sighed, shaking her head. Now there was definitely something that Funeral and Cocaine weren't telling not only her but the whole pride. Her claws dug in the ground, just thinking of that.. why would they keep secrets? After everything she and the rest of the members have done? Was it all for nothing? Was that why innocent lives were taken just for power and bloodlust?! She buried her face in her paws, unsheathing and sheathing her claws uneasily.

[OnyxOryx]

Najisi Kain

She let her gaze fall to her paws. What everyone said.. It warmed her heart. But they were family by bloods. Reno was her mate. She expected this reaction. She still worried about what this would spark. The seeming attack on poor Darrium and Omen.. They would likely feel offended. As would Tanzel probably. For the first time, Najisi remained silent. Unsure what to do next.

The queen felt broken and insecure. She'd lose her chance to see Osic this way.. But it was for the best. When Jericho asked for a privelage, Naji didn't even have it in her to protest. He did deserve to be with Atryn.. One last time. She just worried that one last time meant something more than just returning Atryn.

"The cub should go with someone. I'll allow it Jericho.. Just.. come back.. to me.."

The last part was whispered to only Jericho. Her eyes still remained at her paws. Reno had taken command. It was.. nice to see him commanding. She really did need him. Her family.. She was so grateful for them.

[kahara]

RENO, DARRIUM, OMEN, TANZEL, SIAKON, SLAUGHTER

[/i] He turned to Kardei first. "We are petty for speaking our minds? For speaking up against suicide missions? Are we NOT to speak our minds here? If you wish to mindlessly follow Najisi and Reno's orders, and to follow them into suicide, then so be that! But no family member of mine is being sent to their deaths. I already lost one son because of her!" Darrium flared out. His voice was loud enough for all to hear it. Tanzel tried to brush against him softly to calm him, but it was in vain. Then he turned to Jericho, nostrils flaring. "How DARE you! Shut your filthy mouth! If Najisi cared anything for her family, for Asera, she would have handed over Atryn when the Meurtrierian party first arrived." Darrium spat his way and then turned to face Najisi and Reno. "If you would bring this pride to their demise, so be it, but do so without me!" Darrium roared as he kicked up dust with his wings, taking to the sky and flying off with a snarl. Tanzel was all fluffed out, and Omen looked worried as could be.

"Please, he's just upset, I-"

"It's fine. Go to him." Reno interrupted Tanzel as she had begun to speak. Enough had been said and done. Kicking up more drama was only going to cause a riot. Tanzel dipped her head and took off swiftly for her mate. Omen remained seated with the children. They needed someone, after all. Siakon was rather furious herself. She stomped her paw and turned to her mother.

"Ignore him. He doesn't know what he's talking about, ma', I'll stand by you till the end." Siakon raised her head proudly. Dazeon seemed a tad uncomfortable and upset as his father's outburst, but remained quiet. It was probably for the best. Reno inhaled sharply and nodded.

"No, Influence, but thank you." He gave the bloodbeast a nod and then returned his gaze to his mate. "So it is settled. Jericho will take Atryn partway, and then Atryn will make the journey the rest of the way. We will get Osic and Zenith back someday, but until that day arrives, we will work hard to make our pride better. Give it the foundations it truly deserves.." He waited for Najisi to give word that the meeting was at an end. She called it. She would end it.[/ul][/blockquote]

[OnyxOryx]

Najisi Kain

Najisi was about to say something but Darruim's harshness shut her up. Mentioning both Ceon and Asera cut her deeply. She fought so hard to hide the tears as her head hung low and gaze once again on her paws. She no longer looked like a queen. Nor did she feel it. Even after being told Dei was proud of her.. this proved she didn't deserve such honor.

"It's settled. You can all go.."

Her voice shook and sounded weak. But it was loud enough to dismiss the meeting. However, Najisi did not move. Did not bring her head up. Didn't deserve it. Her tail batted against Siakon's leg to show she was listening. But otherwise, Najisi sat there in silence. Broken.

[LAD]

Jericho, Yasbi, Yasha, Kardei, Camry, Camille, Reno II, Diezel, Cyber, Casey, Amai, Kurai, Kane

Jericho and Kardei both bristled at Darrium's response and they both pressed against Najisi on either side as they watched him fly off - but both also knew to let him go and not respond or make more drama out of it. Darrium was being completely irrational - but at the same time he wasn't and Jericho and Kardei shared a glance on that, because they could understand his point of view. They both still stood by what they said though and merely turned their gaze to Najisi. Another shared glance. "Come on, Najisi, let's get you out of here." Kardei spoke softly, giving a soft nuzzle to her neck.

Jericho's eyes flicked back to Atryn curiosity pricking at him. Tomorrow he would escort Atryn half way, and then Atryn would go the rest of the way home. But he also had his sister to attend to.

Yasbi and Yasha - mirrors of each other, closed their eyes and shook their head softly. The entire thing was horrible. However, Yasha turned her attention on the cubs, flicking her tail above their heads.

Reno II immediately went after it. Casey mewled softly and merely yawned and curled up.

Diezel watched Azul go for a moment, taking a step after her and calling her name softly, and then glanced back at Dazeon, a frown on his face as he watched their father explode. He trembled slightly as their dad took off, but merely sat back down and looked at his paws for a moment. Then his eyes looked up to Omen. "What do we do now?" He murmured.

Amai, Kurai, and Kane watched with cold eyes, silent as a stone - as was their nature they had drifted to the background again. They never were one for center of attention - but they were disappointed by the lack of bloodshed that would happen. Seeing their mother engage the cubs Amai sighed softly, gaining the attention of her brothers, one curious - the other still coldly looking. "Well then, looks like we weren't needed after all." She told them quietly - they weren't looking for more attention. Kane huffed quietly and Kurai snorted. Both remained quiet.

Camry's pelt prickled with each word being tossed about. His eyes darted to Sinna out of worry though - how would she take all of this? He shifted unsurely - but whatever would happen, he'd be there for her if she needed him.

Cyber stood then, and moved over to Yasha, Reno, and Najisi, his head dipped downwards with respect as he did so. His gaze had rested on Reno questioningly though. He wanted to help in anyway he could.

[Avian]

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▲ Lothaire Long

His jaw dropped when Najisi spoke of surrendering, but he had no time to comment it before someone else spoke up. Ocean blues and perking audits followed the heated conversation with much focus and so Lothaire decided to keep his mouth. Things were escalading quickly and the air was filled with so many feelings. A growl came from him when Hajime's name was mentioned. Lothaire missed him..

"It's settled. You can all go.."

Lothaire turned and headed for his favourite spot among the sakura petals to rest. He would probably need all the energy he could collect. Meurtrier was unpredictable and could attempt to attack them regardless of Atryn's return to them. Lothaire didn't trust them and would defidently stay alert and prepared in case they should try to pull a dirty trick.

[Caylis]

Influence's eyes widened at Darrium's response, in a way.. he could feel his feelings too. But, he had to try and do his best anyway. He looked to Omen and murmured, "Is there anything I can do to make you feel better?" he said, his eyes sympathetic.

Azul ignored her dearest brother, then lay her head on her paws, covering her face in the Suldans' den and started to cry, she couldn't take it anymore, she just wanted to run away from everything. Thinking of everyone suffering.. just made her cry. She lashed her tail with frustration, she sobbed. Her oldest brother was killed thanks to that damned Meurtrier, and she had heard her father speak out. "Why.. is it always us?!" she shouted to herself, making a fist and slamming it down on the ground.

Caylis's eyes widened when Darrium's voice rippled through her eyes. Now.. she felt even more guilty... no! She had to be loyal to Meurtrier! Two voices whispered to be loyal to Meurtrier and her family and the other said to feel sympathy for La Morte and help. She shook her head, she groaned, letting her paw slide down her face. So much decisions.. ugh.

[TheWG]

Sinna & Revolt & Casket & Nini & Atryn & Brutus

Sinna's hackles rose high at Darrium's outcry, and her lip curled. Her mother's look of pain made her stand and howl in the direction where he had left, furious. "COWARD!" But she wasn't about to follow her grandfather, it wasn't her fight. Flashing a look to Camry, she leaped from her spot and followed after her mother and sister, close beside them in seconds. She knew how sensitive her mother was, damn her grandfather for putting her down! "I know a lot of people ready to stand by you mom, as much as I would, don't let that coward put you down. YOU'RE dominant, not him, let him whine how he wants."

Nini shrunk in her position as her father burst in front of the queen, the giggling she usually emitted abruptly stopping. Watching him fly away, she whined a bit... Were they in trouble now? Her blue's moved to her sister, who let out a cry, and then to Atryn, who was sitting pretty stoic-looking beside Jericho, looking dazed off into space as he listened to the plans of what he was to do. Ears plastered to her little head, she ran back to her family's den.

Casket bit his lip, and Brutus backed up behind him and Victor at the yelling. Perhaps coming to this meeting wasn't such a good idea... The young medic flicked a look to Victor, wondering what his thoughts on the matter were. At the dismissal, he turned around to coral Brutus and the other cubs that followed back to their den. "Alright, meeting's over..."

Revolt sat beside Camry, flashing him looks of question, but staying quiet during the whole thing. He was a bit disappointed that there would be no fighting anytime soon, aww....

[Jason]

Victor was unsure of what to do as of right now. He stayed still, though he lifted a paw and worked on making an image, though it was not coming out the way he intended, so a heavy paw came down upon it and smashed it. There was a small puff of snowflakes when he did that and he flopped onto his side, looking to Casket. He tilted his head at the young male. He could only wonder how the male felt about going against his own father. Unlike himself, he did have to worry about his father trying to kill him. He looked to Najisi, worried that she may falter with such tension against her. His expression softened. Her demeanor changed throughout and he began to worry about her. From what he was gathering, the others should be preparing battle tactics. He would happily tend to Najisi. He walked over to her after the meeting had adjourned. He looked at Casket for a moment before he reached the dominants. Frightening red eyes fell upon the queen, but his look was only that of concern. His head tilted in an obviously worried fashion at that point.

Dion remained oblivious to the pride for a while, though he did seem concerned about his mother and then clung to her nuzzling her to support her. His golden eyes fell on Victor and he pressed his head into her fur. "What does that weird kitty want mama? Why won't he talk?"