"If bribery fails, blackmail. If blackmail fails, assassination."

[hazlogs]

It is currently 18:10 Pacific Time on Thu Apr 1 2004.

Currently in Saint Claire, it is mostly sunny today. The temperature is 54
      degrees Fahrenheit (12 degrees Celsius). The wind is currently coming in 
      from the northeast at 8 mph. The barometric pressure reading is 30.36 and 
      steady, and the relative humidity is 43 percent. The dewpoint is 32 
      degrees Fahrenheit (0 degrees Celsius.)

Currently the moon is in the waxing Gibbous Moon phase (79% full).

The Clearing Formerly Known As 'Bone Arches'

This clearing stands deep in the forest, hidden by tall trees, and feels
      strangely ...empty. Though it's a perfectly normal clearing, there's the 
      haunting feeling that there should be something here, beyond the grasses 
      and small shrubs that stand sheltered from the wind by the surrounding 
      woods - but those are all that can be seen.

Winding through the underbrush, a number of trail-like impressions can be seen
      in the dirt.  The most prominent of these leads southwest.

Wolf-Heart trots easily into the clearing, the Hispo sized Guardian's slow easy
      lope free of any real concern as he makes his way to the clearing. He 
      sniffs the air as he enters, huffing loud to announce his presence to any 
      all ready inside. But there's no one in there, so the dire sized Ahroun 
      makes his way to the side, flopping down on his side hard. He lazily lays 
      there, waiting for the other people to arrive...

Even dressed in a kimono, with wooden sandals on his feet, Flash is a stealthy
      bastard, as all good Ragabash should be. The Stargazer glances around the 
      clearing curiously as he enters. His manner, to those who have met him 
      before, is uncharacteristically solemn.

Seeker walks into the clearing and looks around at those gathered. He folds his
      arms across his chest and stands, waiting quietly for the proceedings to 
      begin.

Wolf-Heart doesn't look to thrilled at the arrival of the Stargazer. Quickly,
      the hispo rolls off his side and onto his paws. Droppings-in-the-head, 
      you have permission from Firewatcher-Rhya to be here now? The Guardian 
      asks forcefully.

Fights-For-Hope seems to have been at the edge of the clearing for sometime, as
      his scent which always seems to linger quite strongly here has not 
      changed in the brief moment it takes for him to step out of the treeline. 
      His bearing is quite serious and he has yet to recognize any others till 
      he is about equidistant from the center and the edge of the clearing, 
      where he sits down and offers a glancing welcome and chuff to those 
      present.

Flash bows slightly to Heart of the Wolf. "I do," he says simply, without
      pretense or smile.

Wolf-Heart looks more than a little disappointed. This is good, He states
      blandly, looking to the Get Theurge, chuffing a greeting out to to Fights 
      For Hope. The Hispo then picks himself up, loping off to the edge where 
      he sits down without ceremony.

Fights-For-Hope growls towards Wolf-Heart, ~Calm your tongue. The Warder will
      be here soon, all those who are unwelcome will be told so by he who has 
      the power to do so.~ This said, his eyes glance heavily over the 
      clearing, waiting for perhaps the very person he mentions.

It's a relatively warm evening. The sun continues to sink behind the trees,
      whose shadows lengthen. A temporary fire pit has been assembled here with 
      care, flames already dancing about within a ring of stones. The Master of 
      the Challenge emerges from the woods to the north, cradling deadfall in 
      her arms, which gets added to the fire. Layne seems a bit on edge, 
      something wild in her eyes--but it's nothing very unusual, with the 
      fattening moon... There's an impending challenge, and tensions run high. 
      As Garou trail in, she pauses, greeting them with a nod or a wave.

Flash says nothing at all. Calm and collected, he continues to take in the
      area, his hands folded into the wide sleeves of his kimono. As Layne 
      enters, he bows to her.

Wolf-Heart's lips curl back a mote, eyes widening a degree as he tracks his
      gaze over to the get. He was told that the Stargazer did not have 
      permission to be here yet. He was asking if this changed. And he was told 
      that Stargazer's name was Droppings-in-the-head was his name by 
      droppings-in-the-head. No disrespect was meant. As Lanye enters, he 
      offers a curt greeting to Blood of little human with wings Rhya.

Seeker nods to Layne, then walks over to Flash, an eye on the sword at his
      belt. He extends a finger toward it and asks, "May I?"

The flickering of flames guides Reggie through the darkening forest to the
      location. He chews the end of a cigar to ragged tatters, scowls creasing 
      his scarred face, as the Uktena regards the would-be claimants and other 
      roleplayers.

Flash looks sidelong at the Silent Strider and shakes his head with an air of
      regret. "By the word I gave my master before he went East, I may let no 
      one outside our tribe handle this blade."

Seeker looks at Flash for a moment, then nods. "I understand. Thank you." He
      returns to the place he was standing before to wait.

Fights-For-Hope chomps his teeth once towards Wolf-Heart, a simple gesture that
      could perhaps have many meanings. As Layne enters, the fellow officer 
      gives her a low chuff of acknowledgement. ~Good fire,~ are the only words 
      he speaks however, mind obviously on other things.

Wolf-Heart perks slightly as Reggie Enters, the Dire wolf lightened
      considerably. He offers a quick and curt greeting to people as they 
      enter, but he can't keep up with the steady stream at this point.

Flash inclines his head to the Strider Ahroun.

Wildfire trods into the clearing, his heavy pace heard before he is seen as he
      forces his way through the woods into the clearing. His near-permanent 
      scowl stays with him even in this form. He deliberately sits down at the 
      very spot in the clearing in which he made his way in, claiming it as his 
      own with a narrowed look at everyone else already present.

In a few moments, a twig snaps and the Warder emerges from the nearby trees to
      approach the arches. His muzzle lifts every few seconds as he determines 
      who is hear and who isn't. His eyes miss nothing as they scan the 
      clearing. At length he approaches the Master of the Challenge and 
      acknowledges her solemnly.

With a thick muzzle and shaggy, blue-black fur, Storm-Singer is a picture of
      balanced strength and grace. His movements are practiced and fluid and 
      his 100-pound weight appears to be distributed in perfect proportion. His 
      eyes still darkly reflect intelligence, though his reactions and 
      mannerisms are 100% wolf. Chock full of potential energy, this lupine is 
      a formidable presence.

Fights-For-Hope first pivots his head to gaze upon Owen and then the Warder as
      they both enter, the expression given by body language more tense now 
      then moments before.

Layne appears momentarily pleased at the turn-out, before her expression shifts
      back to something dark and focused. Once she's acknowledged those 
      gathered, her attention cuts to the approaching Shadow Lord, to whom she 
      inclines her head slowly. "Storm-Singer-Rhya. As present Warder and 
      Moon-Dancer, will you please raise a howl to begin the Challenge Moot?" 
      The Fianna straightens, arms crossing over her chest.

Storm-Singer raises his long muzzle into the night air and howls

Storm-Singer howls long and loud.

From The Clearing Formerly Known As 'Bone Arches', Storm-Singer can be heard to
      howl, ~Garou of the Hidden Walk! Join your brothers and sisters at the 
      Arches of Bone to determine which of their number shall become the 
      permanent Warder of the Sept!~

Wolf-Heart slowly shifts down to lupus as Jarred does the call, the Ahroun
      watching the proceedings with keen interest.

The howl has a noticble effect on Fights-For-Hope, as moments ago he seemed
      noticbly tense and anxious, now his body is still and appears to be quite 
      relaxed. His eyes however, still tell the same story as before the howl, 
      and his patients are being tested.

Reggie straightens his shoulders and uses his mass to practice being imposing,
      as he turns his squinting, pig-like eyes from one Garou to the other, 
      measuring them up. Or down, as it were.

Flash stands straight and still, his manner composed, displaying perfect calm
      and serenity.

Wildfire sits still during the howl, eyes afixed to the Master of the
      Challenge, waiting with minimal patience for this shin-dig to get going.

When the Warder's howl dies into the growing night, and it looks as if all
      those who will be attending have arrived, the Master of the Challenge 
      steps fluidly toward the firelight and shifts into her warmform. She 
      addresses her septmates. ~Tonight, there is to be a challenge for the 
      position of Warder of the Hidden Walk. Those of you who believe you are 
      -fit- for this office are welcome to challenge--but be aware that this is 
      nothing to be taken lightly. You will -dedicate- yourself to our Caern 
      and its Bawn, commune with this sacred territory, oversee its Guardians 
      and other Sept Offices. Storm-Singer-Rhya has prepared questions for 
      those of you ready to be tested. The rest of you are encouraged to speak 
      your thoughts once they have finished. There may or may not also be a 
      physical contest.~ That said, the Fianna steps back, remaining in crinos, 
      and bobs her muzzle toward the Shadow Lord as if to indicate she's ready 
      for him.

The Warder shifts smoothly to his homid form and speaks. "Welcome to you all.
      Each one among you that would challenge me for the position of Warder 
      speak up now..."

Fights-For-Hope stands quickly and his body tightens as he growls loudly, his
      voice challenging any to dare not hear it, ~I, Fights-For-Hope, the 
      Gatekeeper of the Hidden Walk, challenge the Warder for his position!.~

Flash also takes a step forward. "As do I, Sideways-Thought of the Stargazers."
      He doesn't appear to be joking.

Seeker's voice is a gravelly rasp. "I challenge Storm-Singer for the office of
      Warder."

Wildfire can't help but get to his feet, eager for action of any sort. He peers
      to those speaking, one at a time, as their voice is heard. His heavy gaze 
      lasts longest on the Cliath that spoke. He, however, does not speak up 
      himself.

Signe stands near the edge of the clearing, looking around when the Warder
      calls for challengers. As her gaze sweeps those present, she catches 
      sight of the Wendigo elder and moves toward the smaller ahroun to stand 
      near her.

Reggie expresses doubt in his countenance as he reguards the first challengers,
      then he lightens as Seeker speaks up.

Jacinta nods, silent with arms crossed, as each of the challengers speaks up.
      She doesn't express an opinion one way or another about any of them, just 
      takes in the fact of their challenge.

Jarred nods. "Very well. Since there are no other challengers, I will make a
      statement. When this position first became available, I watches as a few 
      straggles half-heartedly volunteered, as if this job were simply 
      something to pass the time while they waited for the position they 
      *really* wanted. I volunteered and used my rank to take the position 
      until such time as a worthy candidate stepped forward and acted like they 
      deserved the honor. This evening I will determine if any of you bear that 
      worth. I will ask a series of questions. Each of you will answer the 
      question in turn. At the end of each round of answers, any others 
      assembled here will be free to make a statement based upon what they 
      heard. Those who answered will remain silent until the next question is 
      asked. At the end of the questions, I will determine the two best 
      qualified challengers, and they will fight for the honor of being called 
      Warder. No use of gifts. No weapons other than those gaia gave you at 
      birth. 3 rounds will decide the winner."

Jarred clarifies. "As you might be now suspecting, this means that I do not
      intend to keep the title unless the three of you give answers that 
      convince me that none of you are worthy."

Seeker nods at Jarred's terms, then eyes the other claimants to the title.

Fights-For-Hope growls ascent, with a pawing at the ground, to the terms of the
      challenge, definatly not taking any of this for granted.

Flash simply nods.

Wildfire snorts as he hears the terms of this challenge. Give me three rounds
      with these would-be Warders. You can scrape together what's left of them 
      for the position.

Jarred nods, casting an amused glance at Wildfire. "Let us begin, then. We will
      follow the dictaces of rank. "Seeker will answer first, followed by 
      Fights-For-Hope, and then Flash. Here is the first question..." He pauses 
      meaningfully before asking, "How would use the warder position to renew 
      ties with septs that were once allied with this one?"

Sidhefuil dips her muzzle in a slow nod when Jamethon steps forward, gaze
      calculating. The second challenger gets a dubious look from the Philodox, 
      though she rolls shoulders, chin lifting to finally track Seeker's 
      progress toward Jarred. She remains silent and watchful as the 
      questioning begins.

Seeker ponders the question for a moment, then speaks. "As Warder, though I
      myself cannot travel, I would seek to reconnect caerns by moonbridge. The 
      direct connection is best, and direct meeting is the best way to reopen 
      lines of communication. Envoys would then be sent to the caerns to share 
      news and information as well as offer assistance if needed. I would send 
      invitations to the other caerns for representatives to meet here as well, 
      to see what we have to offer. Caerns continue to fall to the Wyrm's 
      minions. In these days, we must stand together with our brothers. Old 
      bonds must be renewed and new ones forged if we are to survive."

Reggie's lower lip sticks out with the force of his nodding to Seeker's words,
      and glares about him to see who's making the error of being unconvinced.

Wildfire, for his part, doesn't fully apreciate that answer. His lips curl as
      though he just caught the smell of something stank.

Wolf-Heart only watches the proceedings idly. A foot reaches up to scratch at
      his neck, and that's about oall the reaction Seeker gets out of him.

Fights-For-Hope waits for the answers to silent and it to become his turn to
      speak. At this time, he grows into the homid form, standing straight and 
      tall with hands balled into fists at his side. Nearly dictating the 
      methods to Jarred, he raises his chin and seems to have thoroughly 
      thought out his words, "The direct connection indeed is best, but is not 
      always possible. So definatly, there are questing packs for such a 
      purpose. And there are many who are tired of sitting around. Those who 
      are able, and who can be trusted to speak for the Sept, will be mobilized 
      in a pack and sent abroad to make the most direct kind of contact with 
      our brothers and sisters of other Septs... face to face. Our journey will 
      show proof of our conviction and will. The moonbridge would be utilized 
      whenever possible, of course, should the other Septs feel comfortable 
      with that arrangement... and there is the question of those septs that 
      are missing pathstones. We could make good with our would be allies, and 
      test the truth of their resolves, by assisting them in discovering 
      pathstones for their own Caerns. One resource we would definatly count 
      upon, are our own varied numbers. So many here were not reborn into Garou 
      in the Hidden Walk itself... they came from other septs, me included. We 
      would work with them to connect with their former Septs and make the 
      strongest ties because the same blood that has been spilt in our defense, 
      has been spilt in theirs. Most importantly however, is the strengthening 
      of our own people, for most others will not ally with any they see, 
      wrongfully or no, as too weak to protect themselves, muchless be of any 
      help to them. I'm sure this will come in a later question but 
      strengthening the Guardians here will, as spoken, help in this endeavor 
      as well."

Flash's answer, by comparison, is deftly simple and to the point. "Bribery," he
      says, to the question of how he'd renew ties to other septs. "If bribery 
      fails, blackmail. If blackmail fails, assassination."

Jarred lifts a brow but says nothing. Wait a moment... Is there a hint of
      admiration in those black eyes?

Jarred says "Any comments from those gathered?"

Seeker peers at Flash, but says nothing.

Sidhefuil remains expressionless, studying Seeker first as he answers, then
      Fights-for-Hope. Both get a measured nod. Flash's reply, however, elicits 
      a thoughtful gleam in the Fianna's eyes.

Wolf-Heart scratches some more. No comment from him, it seems.

Jarred smiles. "Next question..." He looks at each of the challengers darkly.
      "What is the single most critical responsibility of the Warder, and Why?"

Wildfire peers at the Stargazer for a moment as though the Ragabash just grew a
      second head.

Jamethon turns and lifts an eyebrow in Flash's direction, seemingly not in
      anyway shocked as the Stargazer... but definatly a bit surprised. His 
      demeanor is quite the same as before as he looks to Seeker, waiting for 
      the answer to this second question.

Seeker says "Maintaining the physical and spiritual well-being of the caern is
      the Warder's most important duty, whether that means defending it from 
      attack by banes and Black Spiral Dancers, strengthening the caern's wards 
      or assisting an ailing sparrow spirit on the bawn's umbra. It is why the 
      warder must remain on the bawn always. The ministrations of the position 
      demand it. The Sept Alpha is the leader of the sept, but her duties 
      prevent her from focusing entirely on the caern and bawn's defense and 
      maintenance. It is up to the Warder to take that responsibility, leaving 
      the Alpha to focus on leading the sept. The Warder and the Alpha must 
      work closely together to ensure that the caern, bawn and sept are 
      defended and healthy. Caern maintenance is of such importance that the 
      Warder's word concerning it can supercede even the Alpha's."

The question answered once, and now coming to him for the second time, James
      gives little pause in looking to the questioner and offering his 
      thoughts. "Security," he says thoughtfully with a slight grin taking on 
      his expression as he looks over Jarred, "which is covered in so many 
      ways. Guardians to protect. Garou to form packs to be true Guardians. 
      Spirit arms to equip our guardians well. ...and there is the matter of a 
      happy Sept being a productive Sept. Have contests to test our Guardians. 
      Prizes to the victors, to make them constantly prove worth and gain 
      renown among our people. When they are forced, ney, when they desire to 
      keep their senses keen and wits about them... they will serve to protect 
      the Sept that much more. But more comes in with Security. The wards that 
      once held great power must be strengthened, and many of the officers will 
      work together, along with Chimera, to see that this is done. Spirits in 
      various forms will be employed in the fight. The Groundskeeper will be 
      kept on her toes, enforcing the proper care of the Caern and Bawn. And 
      all... who do not rally to be part of keeping the Hidden Walk alive and 
      well, will be taught to understand then when the Warder speaks, they must 
      listen or pay the price."

"The most critical responsibility of the Warder," Flash says calmly, "is to
      strengthen himself... by any means necessary... so that he may hold his 
      position against all would-be challengers." Then he adds, as an 
      afterthought, "And to protect the caern, of course."

Jarred casts an odd glance to Flash, then to Jamethon. "Never has a *single*
      most critical function involved so many bloody words." he comments dryly.

Signe peers at Flash. Til now the Get had been ignoring the odd stranger. Now
      she just looks vaguely irritated. "Who /is/ he?" she asks Jacinta in a 
      not quiet enough whisper.

Jamethon gives a low laugh at this and shrugs, "Never has a question tried to
      distill so large a function into so few."

Wolf-Heart seems to glaze over as the Jamethon and Seeker talks, and you can
      almost see the words going through his head and out the other side. Flash 
      gets slightly more active of a responce: A head tilt and a very curious 
      squint.

Wildfire would be drumming the ground with his claws if only he had the manual
      dexterity in his present form to do so. Too many words and not enough 
      blood-spray, it seems, for the Get as he is visibly becoming bored. 
      Ruh-roh...

Jarred clears his throught. "Question three... Briefly" he looks at Jamethon
      sternly. "BRIEFLY explain your relationship with, or the understanding 
      you have of the bawn and the caern, that would make you the ideal Warder 
      for the Hidden Walk."

Jacinta remains impassive, only a brief flicker of annoyance crossing her
      features as the Stargazer speaks. She looks up at Signe and with a swift 
      raise of her brows answers. "Anuq, Shit-Head, of the Stargazers. 
      Firewatcher gave him permission to guest not long ago. He stays at the 
      farm house."

Reggie rhymatically nods as Seeker speaks, which saves him the trouble of
      actually having to listen, at least until the Ragabash's words catch his 
      attention, and he breaks off to stare.

Sidhefuil looks taken aback by the Stargazer's answer...but not in the way one
      might expect. She almost seems to look...-approving-.

Signe double-takes at Jacinta, grin widening to show teeth. "Oh," she says in a
      low rasp before settling down to listen to the next round.

Seeker opens his mouth to speak, then pauses to rephrase more succinctly. "I
      have patrolled the bawn nearly every night for over eight years, I know 
      every inch of it intimately, shadow and realm. I have defended it from 
      enemies of every stripe. If any place is my home, this is it. One knows 
      how to protect and care for one's home better than any other place. It is 
      part of me and vice versa, therefore I should be the one responsible for 
      its care."

Jamethon doesn't have to wait one iota of time to answer that one, "I have long
      been Guardian here, I know this Bawn well. My pack has protected outside 
      the Bawn. I know the lands outside just as well. I am Gatekeeper, I know 
      the shadow and Chimera and she knows me well. " He seems to perhaps have 
      more to say, but almost in an effort to cut himself off, he crosses his 
      arms over his chest and clasps his jaw tightly, just looking over to the 
      Ragabash for whatever in the world may come out of Flash's mouth.

The Stargazer purses his lips. "As a newcomer to the Sept, I notice things that
      others would miss. Things that these two others have grown used to and 
      become complacent about." He pauses a beat and then adds, flatly, "No 
      offense."

Jamethon seems to measure the words of the Stargazer with his long lasting
      gaze, not openly disapproving, but no indication that he agrees either.

Seeker stands silently, waiting for Jarred to pass judgement.

Jarred cannot resist a smile as he looks around at the reactions of the others.
      "Very well. The final question is this... and choose your answer well. 
      Some questions do not harbor obvious answers." He pauses, then asks, "If 
      you were faced with a choice between one of your duties as Warder and the 
      life of your best friend or mate, which would you choose to sacrifice?"

Wildfire sighs. And if you were a tree, what kind of tree would you be? Can we
      get to the blood-letting already?

Seeker is silent for a long time, thinking. Finally, he says, "A difficult
      choice. Our friends and loved ones are those who guide us, support us, 
      make us who we are. If we let them die, what kind of garou are we? And 
      yet, our caerns are Gaia's lifeblood. Allowing those to fall to save an 
      individual's life could mean her weakening. The needs of the many 
      outweigh the needs of the few. In these times, I would uphold my duties 
      as warder. I would honor my friends' sacrifice, knowing that they are 
      with Gaia and will be reborn into the next generation to fight again."

Jamethon stands tall, and has a look of thought while Seeker speaks. When it is
      time, James responds with grave and serious tone to his voice. "I have 
      made many friends, but the duties of the Warder are my first priority. 
      And... we know that those who die here will still fight to protect her 
      after they pass from the Realm into the Deep Shadow. The choice would 
      always hold weight, and sacrifices always remembered, but in the end... 
      Gaia is who we all fight for." With the emphasis on the word, it is 
      attempted to be obvious whom James refers to by 'her', "So when you say 
      to choose between duty and our best friend... well, duty /is/ the 
      Warder's best friend." Once finished, he nods once, as if he approves 
      that those indeed, were the words he meant to speak. Then once more, 
      James looks to Flash, almost eager to see what he will say.

Flash frowns slightly. "It would depend on how influential that person was. And
      how much they could help me with my primary duty, my most /critical/ 
      responsibility as Warder. Which is, as I said earlier, to strengthen 
      myself by any means necessary. Thus, saving this person would /be/ my 
      duty, and therefore there is no conflict."

Sidhefuil shifts down, her human expression easily conveying what her warform
      might not have. She glances blankly, first, between Seeker and Jamethon, 
      before twisting eyes to Flash. As she studies the Ragabash, her gaze 
      reflects something like surprise and...pride. She looks clearly impressed 
      with his final answer, and states, evenly, as she glances between him, 
      and the Warder. "-Well-. I've heard all I need to hear. And really, I see 
      no reason for a physical contest..." A brow quirks, as she waits for 
      Jarred's own response.

Wildfire growls outloud after the three have spoken, slowly shifting into the
      warform, an axe quite suitable for a crinos appearing in his hand. ~And 
      take no action that would violate a caern.~ For all intents and purposes, 
      it looks as though he fully intends to join any fracass that is to ensue.

Jarred nods to Layne. "Thus ends the Questioning." Here he falls silent as he
      weighs the responses to the queries he's posed. Long moments pass as his 
      gaze bored into the challengers. At least, however, he speaks and his 
      words seem carefully chosen. "Of all the answer I have listened to this 
      evening, only one of you bothered to be honest. Flowery language doesn't 
      impress me. It doesn't impress Gaia. It doesn't impress Black Spiral 
      Dancers. Strength impresses me. Honesty and candor appeal to the Mother, 
      and Cunning and Courage bring fear to the Black Spiral Dancers. I 
      pronounce Flash Warder of the Hidden Walk. The other challengers are 
      dismissed to ponder the hypocrisy with which they have address this 
      gathering." His tone is final and his eyes blaze, daring anyone to 
      challenge his decision.

Wolf-Heart shifts up Crinos after Wildfire, a flat out outraged look on his
      face. No battle axe on him, but the white crinos looks a few steps from 
      mortified. Perhaps a few is an overstatement.

Signe shifts her weight from leg to leg, staring back at the Stargazer. The Get
      visibly has to restrain herself when Layne and the Shadow Lord make this 
      pronouncement. She cannot stop the growled word from escaping her mouth, 
      however. "What??"

Jamethon does, definatly, not approve of Flash's most recent words as a scowl
      crosses his face. When Jarred pronounces his judgement his expression 
      becomes feral, but he keeps his body still. His words come smoothly with 
      great effort and his tension is nothing short of great effort of will, 
      "Honest? You want honesty? I have spoken nothing /but/ honesty! You damn 
      this Sept with your decision, Jarred. I challenge your decision and 
      proclaim that you took an easy way out. You judged based on words that 
      were /designed/ for you!"

Jacinta's eyes grow cold and hard, her lips curl back from her teeth and she
      growls wordlessly in her homid form.

Jarred smiles placidly at Jamethon. "It is done."

Wildfire dares. Wolf-Heart is no where in his mind right now, only Jarred. One
      hand holding the axe at ready, the other pointing a taloned finger at the 
      Shadow Lord, ~You... TIT!~

Seeker stands silently for a long time, muscles in his face working. "That is
      your opinion, warder, that is your decision. Let it be on your head, 
      then." He turns and exits the Bone Arches quickly.

Leala slips into the clearing quietly, just in time to see the growing
      discontent. A look of confusion and uneasiness on her face, she takes up 
      a position in the back to observe.

Wolf-Heart, with great care, lumbers his way around the gathering along the
      outside, intent on the Get Elder. Once he gets near, the ahroun growls 
      out something low.

Layne nods curtly to the erstwhile Warder, before swivelling to honor the new
      Warder with a bow of her head. Finally, the Master of the Challenge turns 
      to face the gathered, stepping again into the firelight. Casting eyes 
      calmly from one septmate to the next. "Assuming those of you who have 
      commented on this decision are -through-," the Philodox says sternly, "I 
      wish to allow Flash to speak for his new Office."

Flash blinks once or twice in a surprised sort of way, then smiles. "Thank
      you," he tells Layne and then, after a slight bow to Jarred, he addresses 
      the gathered in a firm voice. "As Warder of the Sept of the Hidden Walk, 
      I have some new rules to set before you." He looks unruffled by the 
      growls and upset reactions. "ONE! All Garou should dedicate a hat. 
      Preferably one with a brim to protect your eyes AND your scalp from 
      harmful ultraviolet rays. TWO! The caern shall from now on always be 
      stocked with beer. And I mean GOOD beer. If you don't know what beer is 
      good beer, ask a Fianna or a Get of Fenris. And, yes, the Litany applies 
      here. The best of the beer WILL go to the greatest in station. THREE! I 
      demand cheese corn snacks for Chimera. That's CHEETOS, people! I demand 
      Cheetos!"

Jamethon has yet to take his eyes, burning with inner fury, off of Jarred. His
      answer to his challenge only serves to anger him more, but as Layne 
      speaks his bites his tongue... quite literally as blood begins to stream 
      from the corner of his mouth, and waits on Flash to answer.

Flash is deadly serious, and with a hard glint in his eyes he continues. "And,
      finally, I declare Seeker and Jamethon to be honorary April Fools, by 
      virtue of my authority as a Ragabash." A hand comes out from the wide 
      sleeves of his kimono with a set of Groucho Marx glasses, which he 
      swiftly dons.

"Gotcha," says the Stargazer, grinning.

Seeker is stonefaced, utterly failing to see the humor in the situation.
      "Nonsense," he snorts.

Jamethon loses all his steam with the speed of an overpressurized radiator
      whose cap has just been released. His fists are still clenched and he 
      shakes his head, "From Flash alone, I would have expected no less then 
      this... and approved," he looks now to Jarred and Layne however and asks 
      simply, "But from you two as well?"

Frowning, Reggie rubs his chin as he regards the tomfoolery, and heads over to
      Jacinta to inquire in a not too lower voice about native customs calling 
      for blood to be spilled to mark the day.

Jarred chuckles. "Exactly, my dear Seeker, and Jamethon, my friend... you are
      bleeding at the mouth. Now.. if you both feel you're enraged enough, it 
      is time for a duel. Prepare yourselves. One of you will emerge Warder of 
      the Hidden Walk. The other will leave with our respect, but nothing 
      else." He nods to Layne. "I leave it to you to administer the contest 
      from here."

Signe almost literally pushes poor Wolf-Heart away as she, along with the rest
      of the small 'pack' of Fenris' Get seem about to rip one Stargazer and 
      one Shadow Lord, and maybe yes one Fianna, apart limb from limb. She has 
      already slipped up to glabro, and appears about to fully evolve into the 
      wform of war when the pronouncement from the dress-wearing Stargazer 
      stops the Jarl cold. she stands there, dumbfounded.

Seeker remains still for a moment, arching an eyebrow at Jarred. "So the
      challenge itself, at least, is not a joke? Clarify that for me."

Flash bows deeply, first to Layne and Jarred, and then to Seeker and Jamethon.
      The Groucho glasses slip off, but he retrieves them before straightening 
      up and backing away from the Warder-contenders and their judges. The joke 
      glasses go back on his face, sitting above a smugly pleased little smile.

Jacinta stares up at the moon when the joke is revealed, breathing slow and
      controlled as she pulls herself inward, missing Reggie's approach and 
      question almost entirely. When she turns to him, it is with a narrowed 
      eye and just the hint of a smile.

Jarred says "The challenge is no joke, Seeker. Your answers were wise and well
      considered, as were those of Jamethon. Of the three of you, only Flash 
      had no chance, nor desire to become the Warder."

If the homid form has hackles, James' would have his raised currently. Turning
      to face Seeker, the Get of Fenris simply stands waiting, not even 
      bothering to wipe away the blood, it serving to make the large Get appear 
      all the more gruesome.

Wildfire seethes now, moreso with the joke made public. And after Jarred
      speaks, leaving the rest of the challenge to Layne, ~Start running, you 
      little fucktard.~

The Fianna, meanwhile, wears a shit-eating grin, one wider than she's shown in
      a long, long time. She's certain they may have pissed a few people off 
      with that one, but seems to care very little. In fact, she eyes Seeker 
      and Jamethon levelly, wondering, perhaps, how well they will manage to 
      keep their cool despite all of this. Another test, of sorts? When Flash 
      and Jarred have announced that the Ragabash's short stint as Warder was 
      all in the spirit of April Fools, and the physical portion of the 
      challenge is to commence, she gives a sharp nod, then steps back to 
      indicate a clear space before the bonfire. "Ready if you two are," she 
      says, calmly--cheerfully, even.

Leala stares at the gathering, the look of concern abating. If she finds the
      Gazer's remarks funny, she hides it well. Blinking a few times, she 
      crosses her arms and studies both Jamethon and Seeker.

Jarred grins broadly at the large Get, then nods to Layne. "I'll be back in
      just a bit. I have ass to stomp." He gives a wink to Wildfire and burst 
      into action, darting off into the trees as he shifts to his lupus form."

Seeker sighs. "Very well." He shifts to the warform, then draws his kopsh. He
      wraps it in cloth and reverently sets it down behind a rock, out of the 
      way of the battleground. He walks over to Fights-for-Hope and faces him.

Wildfire tosses his axe to Signe, bolting after the Shadow Lord snarling a
      promise of blood and pain upon the Galliard.

Jamethon takes off the jacket, well known now for being a fetish containing an
      aggressive Fenris spirit, folding it with as much care as possible before 
      setting it aside himself. Stepping a bit away from the fetish he regards 
      Seeker, but asks a quesiton obviously meant for Layne, "Terms? And no 
      more tricks, or Gaia will have a host of defenders in the Spirit realms 
      of the Dead ahead of schedule."

Signe catches the axe, still seething herself a little bit. But she is more
      concerned with the outcome of the actual Warder Challenge, and so she 
      leaves Wildfire and Jarred to their 'game'.

Wolf-Heart shakes his head, a little spittle coming off his mouth. Ooh. Froth.
      ~Between the babble and the Mind games...~ He growls out. The Guardian 
      looks over to Wildfire, almost as if he wants to join the elder Ahroun, 
      but the sight of Leala quashes those hopes.

"No more tricks," Layne promises with a flash of teeth in an enigmatic little
      smile. "You will fight until one of you is the clear victor--but before 
      your guts are around your ankles. Let there be bloodshed, but we've had 
      our share of foolishness, tonight. Unto submission," the Philodox sums up.

Jamethon stands for some time longer in the homid form, almost appearing ready
      and willing to take on the Crinos with fists. But as the two square off 
      he raises to the full height of his imposing Crinos form. Snarling, the 
      one-step-away-from-Fostern looks challengingly into the eyes of his 
      foe... and just, nods. Before the action of nodding is complete, the Get 
      releases a violent warcry and leaps for Seeker, one hand held high to 
      claw down and the other reaching straight out to attempt to literally 
      spear into the Strider's stomach.

Seeker leaps high into the air to dodge the Get's strike, flipping and twisting
      in mid-air so that he lands behind Fights-for-Hope and facing him.

As soon as his feet are planted, Seeker attacks Fights from the side. Rage
      courses through him as his first strike misses the target. A second claw 
      attack hits, however, causing deep, bloody gouges in the theurge's side.

Fights-For-Hope rolls using the momentum of his first attack, coming up and
      facing Seeker and lunging for a follow up. As the two clash the Get is 
      wounded by the Strider's claw. Seeker's strike is followed up quickly by 
      Fights-For-Hope's own answering slash to the Strider's attacking forearm, 
      still spilling the blood that any attack with crinosed claws would, it 
      does seem less severe than the wound the Get recieved.

From off in the distance the alert ear can hear yells, snarls and the sounds of
      bone and meat hitting bone and meat.

Seeker leaps at Fights and slashes across his chest with a claw attack. James
      gets in three swipes at the ahroun's chest, but Seeker's momentum carries 
      him away so that only one connects with any severity.

Fights-For-Hope surges with his attack, not pausing as Seeker moves back.
      Throwing out his arms out to engulf the Strider in a bear hug, claws 
      digging into Seeker's back and his massive jaws seek purchase in his 
      foe's throat.

Seeker tries to use Fights' momentum against him, grabbing at his arms, then
      turning and stepping into the Get for a shoulder throw.

Jamethon's claws dig deeply into Seeker's back, but his teeth find no purchase,
      grasping only air as Seeker turns. Fur and skin are ripped from the 
      Strider's back as the Get is carried up and over, to land on his back 
      before the still standing Seeker.

Seeker roars in pain as the Get's claws find purchase, then tears at Fights'
      prone form again. He presses his advantage as his foe is on the ground, 
      his attacks coming in a blur.

Fights-For-Hope doesn't bother moving out of the way, knowing full well his
      enemy will be on him in a matter of miliseconds. Waiting with an effort 
      of will during this incredibly short time, the Get throws his hands out 
      to attempt to grab incoming slashing claws and should he do so, with a 
      great heave illiciting a grunt of exertion, he pulls forward and down to 
      send the Strider to the ground and on James' current level.

Striding her way into the clearing, Alicia glances about slowly to take in the
      scene before her, eyes narrowed, hands shoved into the pockets of her 
      jacket.

Moving at a blur, fed by rage, Seeker's claws tear into Jamethon's chest until
      the Get's own clawed hands find purchase on the Strider's arms. Seeker is 
      thrown off balance, falling to one knee beside Fights for Hope.

Fights-For-Hope uses Seeker's weight during the through as a point to pull
      himself, surging over to land ontop of the Strider's back, jaws once more 
      seeking purchase on his foes' throat, going for the side that Seeker is 
      blind on.

Seeker slashes again at the Get, his claws moving in an upward arc, starting
      low near the ground and sweeping straight upward to where he thinks 
      Fights will attack next.

Seeker's claws rend through Jamethon's side as the Get leaps upward. Still,
      Jamethon seems to be playing Horsey with the Strider, bending down, his 
      jaws close around the left side of Seeker's throat.

The massive Get is breathing heavily and bleeding profusly, but with his mouth
      around the veins and arteries of Seeker's throat he growls out, ~Submit!~ 
      with a tightening of his jaw and the force of rage on the edge of frenzy, 
      a palpable stink coming off of him in waves.

"Not yet," the ahroun growls, sensing his foe's weakness. Although grievously
      wounded himself, he grabs Fights' jaws and tries to pry them apart and 
      off of him, sending one last swing of his claws at the Get as he does.

Fights-For-Hope bites down hard, a last attack on the ahroun as Seeker attempts
      to release James' grip.

Jamethon's jaws put a pressure that cannot be ignored on the throat of the
      Silent Strider, but no more blood flows than before. Seeker's close hand 
      pulls the jaws open just enough to prevent further injury, while his free 
      hand reaches up, over his own shoulder, to rake across the top of the 
      Get's head. Blood trickles down into Jamethon's eyes, even as they close, 
      body losing tension.

Seeker nearly collapses under Fights-for-Hope's weight, but manages to crawl
      out from under him. Then he does collapse, panting and bleeding, on the 
      ground next to the Get.

Fights-For-Hope lays upon the ground, apparently dead to those just looking in
      cursory function. To those observant, he is still breathing ever so 
      slightly, yet still bleeding. He needs a healer to stay alive, and he 
      needs one at this very moment.

The Get's prone body starts to slowly shrink down to the homid form, almost
      seeming to act like some kind of timer.

A healer does indeed come. Alicia moves forward through the crowd of Garou,
      striding confidently towards the pair of battered Garou with a soft 
      'tsk'ing noise between her lips. "Well fought you two." She says, 
      glancing to Seeker, then down to the fallen Fenrir. Sinking down to her 
      knees, she leans over and presses a hand to his chest, letting her 
      fingers get coated in his blood. With a moment of concentration, she 
      begins the healing process.

Seeker sits up, looking shocked. ~Fights-for-Hope, No!~ He reaches out to the
      Get, then stops as a healer reaches him. He sags and falls back again, 
      putting a hand over his face.

Flash has watched the frenzy of bloodshed with nary a flicker of expression,
      his face still holding that look of calm serenity that's stereotypical of 
      his tribe. The Groucho Glasses ruin the effect somewhat, of course. Now, 
      as the fight ends and the Child of Gaia steps in to keep the dying alive, 
      he nods once and comments, casually, "Glad it wasn't me."

"Its all good, Seeker. Just relax and I'll give you some loving too." Alicia
      says, then begins to hum as her touch slowly but surely begins to knit 
      the wounds of the fallen Godi.

Wolf-Heart seems to eye Seeker for a moment before the white Crinos' lumbers
      his way forward to the Elder Ahroun on. He tips his head down slightly, 
      making eye contact with the Silent Strider's prone. ~Three-Blades is 
      Guardian. Gaia-Will-Judge Guardian too. Innocence is at wood cave now, 
      not patroling I am thinking, but will fight at call.~ He intones simply. 
      If he has any comment on the fight, the Get, or anything else for that 
      matter, Keeps the Wolf is keeping it to himself. ~Am going back to duty 
      now.~ He adds, then turning for the out and out.

Fights-For-Hope had just shrunk down to the homid as Alicia laid down her
      hands, and his chest lurches up under the healing touch as if a 
      defibrillator were being applied. James' eyes shoot wide and his mouth 
      calls out in a silent roar strangled by his own jerking movement.

Jacinta's nod at the conclusion of the combat expresses some nameless
      disappointment. She uncrosses her arms and begins to approach the new 
      Warder. Seeing the extent of his injuries, however, she turns to Signe, 
      instead. Approaching, head bowed, she waits to be acknowledged before 
      speaking.

Wildfire makes his way back into the clearing, by himself, a few cuts on his
      own torso dwarfed by the amount of blood on his hands and claws. He 
      eyeballs the two victims of the Warder-challenge and snorts, his only 
      comment of the gorey scene.

Signe's disappointment isn't so nameless. She's scowling at the prone Jamethon,
      and it takes her a moment to see Jacinta's waiting to talk to her. She 
      acknowledges the Wendigo with a look, but little else.

"Good evening, sunshine. I brought you back to life. You so owe me a cookie."
      Alicia says as she stares down into the waked face of James, then leans 
      back once she is secure he isn't fatal any longer. "Yer next dude." She 
      drawls over to Seeker, gesturing towards him with a come hither twitch of 
      her finger.

Leala gives the Gazer a hard sideways glance, fleeting in nature, but keeps her
      concentration on Alicia. Her face is somewhat drawn, but she remains 
      composed.

Jamethon starts to breathe deeper now, turning his head to cough up a thick
      gout of crimson on the ground which doesn't do much to the already blood 
      soaked earth. After this he just lays there for a second, and his eyes 
      glaze over with use of a gift he had supressed the use of during the 
      challenge... and his pain fades away, expression replaced by one of anger 
      and perhaps even disbelief. Pushing himself up he looks to Seeker, only 
      nods, and melting into the lupine form starts his way out.

Flash eyeballs Wildfire sidelong, the gesture masked by the big hairy fake
      eyebrows on the joke glasses, and starts fading back toward the edge of 
      the clearing and the forest beyond.

Jacinta takes the glance as permission enough to speak, and does so. "Skadi's
      Defiant-Storm-rhya. At last moot, you performed the Rite of Wounding. I 
      hoped you might consent to share instruction with me."

Signe looks the Wendigo over again, scowl dissipating somewhat. "You want me to
      tea you Wounding?" she asks, and then almost immediately nods. "Yeah, I 
      suppose I can do that."

Jacinta allows a small grin to build. "Quyana. I will be at your disposal, and
      if there is something I might teach you, you have but to ask." Again, she 
      bows her head to the Fostern.

Wildfire sucks on a tooth for a second, peering after Jamethon as he starts
      out. His attention turns towards another movement, however, that of the 
      Stargazer. He says nothing, nor does he look away from the ragabash, 
      instead just holding his hand out towards Signe, a hand that is clearly 
      in need of an axe.

Fights-For-Hope seems to be on his way out of the clearing, but when he reaches
      the edge he simple turns and sits, looking back in. The Get isn't 
      retreating after all, and despite, or perhaps because of them, his rage 
      looks to be quite piqued. One scar in particular shows well from the 
      fight, the last wound he recieved, three large jagged scars, like 
      clawmarks, that travel from above his eyes, over his head, and to the 
      back of his skull.

Signe sees Wildfire's hand and holds hers out to give him his axe back. When
      she returns her attention to the Wendigo, she nods. "Heh. Ok. I'll come 
      down to the bluff tomorrow and show you what you need to make the rite 
      work. We can discuss it then."

Flash stops as Wildfire looks his way. The Ragabash looks unafraid as he
      removes the Groucho Glasses and tucks them away into some hidden pocket 
      in his wide sleeves. Then, very calmly, he removes the sheathed katana 
      from his obi and holds it in front of him, one hand curled around the 
      sheath, the other, his right, around the hilt. He smiles faintly.

Wolf-Heart stops and turns his head to look back, eye catching Wildfire and the
      Metis quite well. A rather grim cheer grips him as he turns full around 
      to watch how this one will pan out.

Jacinta raises her eyes to look squarely at the Get of Fenris' chin. "Ii," she
      says simply. "Tomorrow." The grin cannot be suppressed further and, 
      despite the surroundings, she turns from Signe with a full smile.

Signe watches the Wendigo leave, and if the moon wasn't so fat, and the night
      so full of blood, she might have smiled too. As it is, she merely grits 
      her teeth a little and turns to watch Flash and Wildfire.

Leala also turns her attention to the Katana-weilding Stargazer. The Ragabash
      in her might normally have found such a site amusing, but not tonight. 
      She stands silently, waiting for Wildfire to make his move.

Wildfire curls a lip in a snarl. ~Rotagar,~ he says, ~Heute abend konnen Sie
      leben, Ratatosk. In der bewillige ich Ihnen die Bewegung des Dummkopfs.~ 
      The German sounds even harsher from a crinos. He shoulders his axe, 
      standing there, but does nothis else for the moment.

Leala pages to the room: Awwww. Translation please?
Wildfire pages to the room: 'Tonight you may live, squirrel. In that I grant
      you the fool's move.'

Fights-For-Hope growls out towards the Stargazer, ~He offers you the chance to
      live for now. I suggest you take it.~ His demenor is not pleasant, as is 
      expected, as he is still bleeding a good deal.

Flash cocks his head, considering the Crinos with the axe for a moment before
      smiling cheerfully. He replies with a short phrase in fluent Korean, bows 
      quite deeply to the Get, then heads out of the clearing, whistling, "If 
      I'd Seen an Elephant Fly."