Moot: February 2001

[hazlogs]

Center of the Caern
This area of the clearing is about 30 meters wide and is a mixture of dark soil and clay throughout, though much of it looks like it's been sodded in recent months. Near the center of the clearing, the top of a large white boulder juts out from the soil like a bone revealed after the skin of an animal has been torn away. The large rock appears to be normal stone at its base, but towards the top stone gives way to a sparkling collection of quartz crystal.
Around you, twenty yards in every direction, stretches the caern. To the southeast, a waterfall plummets over the edge of the chasm into a small pool in the caern; nearby, to the southwest, steam comes from cracks in the ground, perhaps some of the same water. Northwest, a rocky spar juts out of the ground at a low angle, showing a sloping but smooth top. The chasm walls narrow a bit to the northeast, causing some of the mist to swirl in that area.
Contents:
Your average amount of dozens of Garou
Obvious exits:
Rock Slab Windy Spot WaterFall Steam Vents
Finds-the-Lost bumps against the side of Dierdre's leg lightly before turning to the other side of Steven, to settle in on the ground there. He's scanning about for tonight's Fool.

Steven tosses a scowl toward aforementioned Filthy Urrah.

By the steam vents, Bernie comes into the caern from the southwest.

"Aw, shuttup. You don't even come close to having that *Glow*." Collin makes his way towards Lucca. He's not in Glabro, nope. His head is big enough as is.

Alicia steps slightly away from Adam, feeling a bit tense for the moment. Shivering, she rubs her bare arms, lacing down the goosebumps which perk upon her flesh.

"Yo, Steven," Helen then pipes up, regarding the Fianna. She grins, and seats herself alongside Agatha. The ragabash cub muses, "Haven't seen y' a lot."

From the rock outcropping, Koschei steps up onto the rocky outcrop, his form reverting to breed as he goes. Soon, a very thin, ugly-looking black Crinos with stunted wings crouches there, vulturelike.

Dierdre raises an eyebrow at something she apparently missed while gone but shrugs and continues to watch.

Junior walks over to where Joey's sitting and joins him there - watching the gathering mass of people.

Jarred, in his glabro form, moves toward the Caern's center from his position leaning against a nearby tree. His dark cloak ripples around him, the hood obscuring his dusky features in the half-light of the gathering. His face (what little can be seen of it) bears a grave expression, a testament, no doubt, to the seriousness of his task. He begins speaking in a deep, authoritative voice as he strides forward purposefully. "I would have your attention... From time immemorial, the laws of the Garou nation have been simple and few... for it is known that from simplicity flows power, from discipline and pureness of purpose spring strength and success, and from the brightness of the halcyon days of before we have only the light of our Litany to cling to as the final darkness encroaches. The Litany is our guide, our supreme code, and our only law. We will never forsake it, and *woe* unto those who attempt to tear it from us, or pervert its profound wisdom."

Agatha murmurs to Helen. "I haven't seen you a lot, either."

By the steam vents, Signe slips down the side of the caern wall, adjusts her jacket as she reaches the bottom, and makes her way to the center.

By the steam vents, With a gentle hiss, new clouds of steam briefly stream forth from the cracks in the rocks.

Rides-Fire also gives Dierdre a curious sniff, before turning to the moot's galliard. He flickers his ear with irritation.

Tecmessa rises from her crouch to listen intently.

Kristine moves to sit behind the rest of her packmates, keepin an eye on most things, but silent.

Lucca gives Collin a hearty thump on the back. "People're being all dismal and shit, it-" She stops abruptly as Jarred begins to speak, staying standing but turning her attention towards Jarred.

As he reaches the center stone, Jarred turns to regard the assembled garou. He shifts smoothly to his own war form, the black cloak transforming with him, and reaches up with a large claw to pull the hood from his black, shaggy head, letting it fall upon his broad shoulders. With a final look around the Caern, the Shadow Lord speaks in a tone that can brook no argument. ~Garou shall not mate with Garou!~

Guides-the-Dead watches Jarred, intent. As the First Law is called out, she chuffs absently.

Collin is thumped. He sways. Promptly. And only chokes a little. He manages to keep his air, though. No thanks to lucca.

From the rock outcropping, Vulture's usually quiet voice rings out clearly across the caern. ~This rule was made when humans lived in mud huts and Gaia had more than enough warriors. Now the Wyrm and the Weaver have Her near death, and our numbers are fewer every year! I say that Garou SHOULD mate with Garou, to insure that at least SOME of the next generation are Garou and not useless kinfolk.~

Helen's eyes move to the Fool's place; thank Gaia Koschei decided to tell Helen about the parts of a moot. The ragabash cracks a grin, watching the metis of her tribe with an amused expression.

Agatha glances at Koschei as the First Law is read, nearly choking as it becomes obvious who the Fool is tonight.

By the steam vents, Kaz shifts up, slowly. "Dude. You want fuckin' deformed assholes around? I don' think so, thanks."

Rides-Fire snarls, surging up into hispo as he does so. The larger size gives further strength to the Mother's Tongue. ~You would make it the last generation.~

Lion's-Roar weaves his way into the main body of present Garou, a seemingly permanent sneer across his face. He makes no retort to the Fool just yet.

Isaac stands straighter, tail hanging straight down, and allows his attention to be split between the two speakers. ~Some, but then no more!~

Lucca's retort is quieter and aimed at Collin; "It'd mean we'd have more Rogers."

~Our Fool tonight,~ Steven replies, in a strong voice, ~is proof enough against that idea. Metis are deformed and sterile for a reason.~

Three-Blades barks her answer as she comes down into the caern, And when /those/ Garou cannot mate, then we will be doomed! She bounds down towards the gathered Gnawers, though stopping briefly to chuff at Sepdet and Soulcatcher.

Finds-the-Lost gives a decidedly skeptical snort, though it seems more at the Fool himself than the statement. ~Even a Fool can count past one generation.~ Whether that refers to the ceremonial Fool, or Isaac, or anyone in general is left purposefully vague.

Agatha calls out, "Anyone who thinks that kinfolk are useless, has never talked to one except, perhaps, to give commands."

Sepdet averts her eyes the moment Kaz makes her little demonstration and beckons Yi over with a resigned tight smile; she's chimed in often enough on this one other nights.

~The Litany is our Sacred Laws. We must abide,~ Guides-the-Dead muses in the Mother's Tongue; her eyes flicker over to Sepdet, and she decides to move over towards the theurge. Once close enough, she nudges the other Strider in a friendly manner with her nose.

Alicia listens quietly as she slips down to her knees, drawing one to her chest.

Bernie follows Kaz in, and finds a spot in which to lurk and watch. Her gaze darts all about the assemblage, listening and observing with curiosity. She gives Kaz a quick glance, trying to figure out what exactly she ought to do.

Adam sits down, next to his cub, listening.

Kaz whispers quietly to Bernie.

Song-of-Fury speaks from the center stone. ~You will combat the Wyrm wherever it dwells and whenever it breeds!~

Three-Blades takes a brief moment to rub up against Kaz and Bernie, apparently without LSG, and then sidles over towards Sepdet and Joseph when the Strider elder beckons.

From the rock outcropping, Vulture shakes his head in disgust. ~Any idiot will tell you that fighting on multiple fronts is a good way to get you and your forces slaughtered, and the Wyrm dwells and breeds EVERYWHERE, ALL THE TIME. Strike this law or change it. It's impossible to obey.~

Tecmessa says, ~The point is more to never forget what we must be fighting. Never. If it comes in the streets, we fight. If it comes in the woods, we fight. That is the point.~

Isaac glances up at his packmate and then narrows his eyes at the Fool. We fight. We fight always. That is the way.

Robert laughs, a sharp, bitter sound. "It is one front--the Wyrm. We are multiple--all the Garou. If we work as one, there's nothing we can't to."

Lucca shouts, since she's being enthusiastic for once, ~You can't kill them all at once, but you can kill 'em one at a time! And each one down's one fewer shitting on our Mother!~

Sepdet sighs. ~Gaia won't last long if her warriors start deciding to fight only when it's convenient.~

Even the Wyrm must take its time to brood, and when it does, we strike. Everywhere, and All the Time, comes Three-Blades' answer to the Fool's retort.

Agatha glances at Lucca, practically grinning.

Finds-the-Lost growls out, ~Those who are weak whine about what they cannot do. Those who are strong do what they are born to.~

Bernie scritches Yi, nodding slightly to Kaz before turning her attention toward the apparent Fool and his crowd of callbacks. She drops crosslegged to the ground, sitting near the other Gnawers.

Alicia takes a deep breath and listens to the Sept Members shout about her, her eyes glancing idly over to Adam.

Valoran watches curiously, this being unlike the moots to which he has become accustomed.

The Shadow Lord nods in satisfaction, then lowers his voice to a threatening rumble. ~You will respect the territory of another!~

From the rock outcropping, Vulture stands up at this, wings spreading to their full, if unimpressive, span. ~Territory belongs to those who can hold it. If I can take it from you, the Wyrm could too, and you're simply not worthy to have it.~ He bares his teeth for emphasis.

Kaz says "Fuck that. Y'don' respect anythin', y'whole society falls apart."

Agatha laughs at the Fool. "Now who advocates fighting on more than one front? We are allies against the Wyrm or we will fall to the Wyrm."

Lucca says "You do that, you're splittin' yourself AND you're givin' those 'weak guys' a reason to stop fighting!"

Steven says, ~Territory is a concept which can extend to more than just a patch of dirt and trees.~

Guides-the-Dead says, ~We fight the Wyrm. The Wyrm is our enemy. We must fight it or die trying to save Gaia. There is no other way.~

All of our territory belongs to Gaia; if we don't respect it, then we don't respect the Mother! barks Three-Blades. And as for the Wyrm, it never respects it's territory, so we'll just take it back from the fishbait.

Lion's-Roar can't help but bark out a laugh. ~I'd like to see you try, you puke! Ha! The House of Get will not be for anyone's taking!~

Rides-Fire again shows teeth. ~If you desire their territory, you respect it by challenging them honorably.~

Tecmessa says, ~Territory can be challenged. No one has ever argued that. But respect is a complex thing, and to say that it only means you cannot challenge it, that misses the point.~

Agatha glances at Lion's-Roar, muttering something under her breath to Tecmessa.

Guides-the-Dead has nothing to say on the territory tenet; she's quiet, for the moment beside Sepdet. Helen seems amused at all this bickering about the Litany.

Tecmessa murmurs something quietly.

Song-of-Fury's growl is filled with authority. ~You will accept an honorable surrender!~

From the rock outcropping, Vulture growls back with a hint of a sneer. ~You know, if all duels were to the death, it's JUST possible that people would hesitate before settling philosophical differences with their claws. This 'honorable surrender' thing is just an easy way out for a bunch of hotheads that we don't need.~

Steven says, ~Completely untrue. An honorable surrender preserves an able, smart warrior for Gaia.~

Kaz says "Hello, challengin' someone ain't no easy way out. It's a way to judge who's the big dog, an' it /works/."

Adam snorts, speaking up, while explaining to Alicia quietly this portion of the moot. "If they have already surrendered, you do not need to let any more blood. We fight smongst our own enough already, and can't afford any more senseless deaths."

Agatha chuckles faintly. Whatever Tecmessa said, it was apparently at least mildly amusing. In response to the Fool's latest sally, she says, "It takes brains to know when to surrender. Those who are so hotheaded will be culled even if the Law is obeyed."

Lucca mumbles something to herself, but doesn't come up on this one, since she's not big on challenges right at the moment.

Signe merely smirks at the fool's jibe, this time, and folds her arms across her chest.

Even the most patient will break their anger upon another. When that happens accepting surrender is what keeps both alive, growls Three-Blades.

Tecmessa seems, oddly, to agree wtith Kaz. ~A challenge is not just because one is hotheaded or unwise. A challenge is a time tested and honorable way to approach dominance and submission. There is nothing wrong with this.~

Isaac chews on his forepaw, but stops long enough to agree with Adam's sentiment.

Joshua Halfhand snorts from where he stands on the edge of this gathering, near his lupus packmate. Voice harsh in a glabro throat, he calls back, ~Even the Hand will spare the occasional brave opponent.~

All can tell that this one is heartfelt. The Shadow Lord's dark eyes flash with sanctimony. ~You will submit to those of higher station!~

From the rock outcropping, Vulture sneers again. ~And here we see a law made BY the powers-that-be for the BENEFIT of the powers-that-be, and frankly I don't see why any of these Fostern or Adren or whatnot are any better than me.~

Agatha smirks slightly at the Shadow Lord's emphasis and mutters another question to Tecmessa.

Steven says, ~If you get down off that stage, Fool, I'll show you with my fist.~

Rides-Fire's response this time is wordless as he snarls open rage at the impertinent mule.

Kaz growls, "Because, you dimbulb, they been scrappin' and survivin' for geologic ages longer than you have, and they /know/ what's going on.

Shadow-of-Blood snarls at the Fool. That have lived. They have fought. They have defeated. You have not.

Agatha laughingly suggests that Koschei should try challenging them. Then he'll find out both that and why they're better than he is.

Tecmessa says, ~In any case, how will any society exist, without a hierarchy?~ Lucca adds, ~Even if you hate the sons of bitches, you have to respect the rank, or we all go to shit in a day!~

Those filled with pride in themselves as betters should prove it, snarls Three-Blades, obviously knowing the feeling of not getting someone to submit. They must know their place, for the sake of the stubborn's guts.

Bernie glances over at Three-Blades and grins.

Kaz snorts softly.

Agatha continues to occasionally ask another muttered question of Tecmessa. Most of them seem to be identifications of this one's rank, or that one's tribe.

...and the thought logically follows. ~The first share of the kill goes to the greatest in station!~

From the rock outcropping, Vulture throws up his clawed hands, letting out a yowlp of sheer exasperation. ~This law is as bad as the previous one! My packmates and I did all the sweaty work, so WE should get the spoils, not some flea-bitten old wolf who just sat there drooling on herself.~

Kaz says "Yeah, and your alpha, they ain't done no work? Get a grip, the greatest in station is the guy pullin' th' weight. An' the guy that deserves some respect."

Sepdet puts in mildly, ~Hungry elders are cranky elders. Give 'em a haunch and no one gets hurt.~

Helen is laughing hysterically at the Fool; Guides-the-Dead is silent, watching the calling of the Litany with a sparkle of amusement in her eyes.

~Doesn't say SHIT about takin' it ALL! They just get first pick!~ throws in Miss Lucca, who's already starting to grin a little, despite the anger from the moon's fullness.

Steven adds, ~Yeah, don't piss off Sepdet, or she'll set your ass on fire. Better hand over her share.~

By the waterfall, Chaser comes down the trail from the rim above.

Song-of-Fury's upper lip quivers at this, but it's quickly brought in rein. By the waterfall, Chaser stalks down the trail and into the Caern, scowling.

Bernie giggles a bit at all this, bursting into actual laughter at Steven's comment, which took her by surprise. She slaps her hand over her mouth quickly to try and stifle it.

Isaac's attention shifts to Steven, to Sepdet, and back, ears twitching forward and back in confusion.

Lion's-Roar's retort is cut off prematurely at Steven's response. Instead he just guffaws.

Three-Blades glances up at Sepdet and whuffles softly, her lupine eyes sparkling with first-hand knowledge of Steven's words.

There's a growl from the half-moon Strider; Guides-the-Dead regards Steven, the growl increasing in volume. But she then falls silent. Helen's giggling has increased, as Steven put in his comment. She cackles inanely.

Finds-the-Lost finds that comment from his packmate particularly entertaining, and he doesn't bother to hide an amused snort.

Song-of-Fury's voice lowers, and now betrays his revulsion. ~You shall *not* eat the flesh of humans!~

Agatha chuckles at Steven's remark. As she identifies both speaker and object, she seems to relax slightly. There are another two who are not dead yet.

From the rock outcropping, Vulture's claws twitch a bit as he stares out into the crowd. ~This law must have been set down by a bunch of faint-hearted homids. There is NOTHING wrong with human flesh! It's meat just like any other. If you're worried about taint, do a Cleansing on it and stop whining.~

By the waterfall, Chaser licks her lips, and sucks on her teeth audibly. "Mmmm. Long pig," she mutters under her breath.

Kaz snorts. "Yeah. Make a habit of it, and no Cleansin' on earth'll do you any good."

Shadow-of-Blood snorts at this one. Human flesh will bring more of the vermin down on us. But it also tastes bad. Gaia has given us plenty of good things to hunt and eat.

Joey sticks out his tongue distastefully. "I bet burgers taste better, anyway. Besides, humans put too much crap in their bodies," he says, dryly.

Tecmessa says, ~This is passed down from generation to generation -- because of the Impergium. We begin to persecute them again, and we will have learned nothing.~

Matt seems agitated about something, but judging by his distracted expression it's not something here. He half-listens to the Litany, which he's been thinking about for almost six months solid now.

This one thinks rabbit or deer taste far better than twolegs anyway, Three-Blades snorts, glancing at Shadow-of-Blood as his words just lend to confirmation.

Joshua Halfhand turns a look of disgust on the fool. ~I was born of humans. It's not about Cleansing. It's just fucking disgusting.~

Kyle says in a firm voice, "Trust *me*. It ain't right."

Steven shoots Halfhand a thumbs up from where he stands.

Kaz mutters, "And he'd know," quietly.

Bernie makes a face at the idea, and grins at Joey's comment, adding, "Yeah, an' people worry 'bout what -cows- got put in their bodies..."

Geoff wanders in and stands behind Joseph, utterly silent.

Agatha is not close enough to hear Kaz's remark, more's the pity. She's looking at Kyle, as if trying to place him.

Lion's-Roar says, ~Ain't nothing wrong with eating a mid-western, corn-fed hottie _out_, though!~

By the waterfall, Chaser stifles a chuckle, and makes her way toward Kyle. "What, Kyle, it didn't taste like chicken?" she says dryly.

Kyle turns a look on Chaser that is decidedly unamused. It'd make most people nervous at this phase of the moon.

Song-of-Fury makes a truly valiant effort at sounding authoritative on this one. ~Respect those beneath you. *All* are of gaia...~

Signe kind of eyes Kyle for a moment and then turns to nod to Chaser as she joins the pack.

From the rock outcropping, Vulture sneers again, lips curling from overlong fangs. ~This is an annoyance at best and a fast road to our collective ruin at worst. These little snotnoses NEED TO LEARN THEIR PLACE. And a little abuse will toughen them up. Their feelings don't matter.~

Shows-The-Path arrives at a quick trot, entering in from the steam vents. The brown wolf quickly moves towards the gathering.

Agatha restrains a snort, just barely, at the Shadow Lord's tone. She doesn't say anything in response to Koschei, though, simply chewing slightly on her lower lip.

Adam sighs. "We are all, we are one. Under Gaia's eyes, there are no aboves or beneaths. Get it straight."

Rides-Fire stares at the Fool. ~Do you harm those that help you hunt? Only when there's no help for it. All of the pack have value.~

Alicia continues to listen as her eyes stray slowly around, feeling the intensity in the air by the antics of the fool.

Kaz grunts. "Big dog needa be respected, but so's little dog. They're the future, after all."

Joey hehs. "Besides, if there were no lesser folks, then the greater folks wouldn't be so great, would they?"

Valoran snorts. "We gotta like this one. I'm Cliath. That little gem's kept me from gettin' my ass whooped many a time."

I'll respect all, except the Wyrmspawn beneath my claws and in my jaws, Three-Blades rumbles loudly.

Tecmessa says, ~Many do need to learn their place, yes, but if they are run roughshod over, they will never become useful Garou. Therefore...~

"Messing with people in a lower position than you doesn't make you look bigger, it just makes ya look pathetically insecure...." Bernie remarks, sounding as if this is something she's quite convinced of.

Song-of-Fury thunders, ~The veil shall not be lifted!~

Shows-The-Path slows to a stop at Collin's side and she offers him a soft nudge with her muzzle. She then tilts her head to listen easier to the crowd. All are important in the grand picture. All must have an equal chance to earn their respect, even the greatest leaders started out as cubs.

From the rock outcropping, Vulture thunders right back at the Galliard. ~WAKE UP! We're losing the war! How are we going to get allies if we're constantly skulking like cowards in the shadows?~

Kaz says "Yeah, and you want allies that'll just chop us into liver? That'll be real helpful."

Agatha snarls, an odd sound, coming from a homid throat. "If you want allies, look to your kinfolk."

Joey rolls his eyes. "Come on. You think the human'll wake up and help us? They'll shit their pants, then come after us with torches and pitchforks. Remember: Fire bad."

Three-Blades growls at the Fool as if he wouldn't know the consequences of breaching the Veil in the city. Already the twolegs look for us in the Scab because of cracks in the Veil. The Wyrm would grow stronger as we are caught up in fights with twolegs. We don't need /more/ trouble than we already have.

Lion's-Roar snarls, ~Just read the latest news about rabid dogs on Bridge Street and have another think!~

Rides-Fire stiffens, a low growl trickling from his throat. He does not answer this law that sent his former packmate from this sept in shame.

Song-of-Fury's voice takes on a slightly hardened edge, though it is tinged with sadness. ~Do not suffer your people to tend your sickness.~

From the rock outcropping, Vulture takes a step back as though deflating somewhat, but his muzzle is still twisted in anger and disgust. ~...And thus the mighty Garou Nation is reduced to a flock of mindless chickens, driven to mob brutality at the first sign of one member's weakness. Pah!~

Tecmessa murmurs, ~In death,~ and adds, ~It is only at the extremity.~

Adam frowns at this. "If you cannot run with the pack, then get the fuck out of the way."

Valoran doesn't answer the Fool, though there is conflict in his eyes. Still. The law is the law.

Kaz growls, "Ain't that. It's just, you start to be more trouble'n your worth, don' make people do shit for you. Do it y'self. We gotta war to run here."

Agatha snorts, "The Law does not demand that pack kill those who are ill. The Law demands that those who are ill not hinder the pack."

Robert observes, "Suffering is a matter of interpretation. When I get to the point where I can no longer teach or advise or fight the Wyrm in whatever way, then it is time for me to pass on to Gaia. If we cannot fight, and cannot help others fight, our purpose is finished and we can go back to Her."

Sepdet says, ~If you can heal to fight for Gaia again, fine. If your time is done, go gracefully and do not burden others.~

Joshua Halfhand crosses his arms in front of his thick chest. ~I hope when I'm too scarred or toothless to fight, my packmates do me the honor to send my spirit on to the next life, when I /can/ help.~

When you have to go, you go yourself, answers Three-Blades simply.

Song-of-Fury says, ~The leader may be challenged at any time during peace!~ From the rock outcropping, Vulture says, ~Peace? What peace? We're at war! We're ALWAYS at war! This law is as outdated as the one about mating with other Garou. Kill it.~

Kaz says "Nah. Just, sometimes, we're in deeper shit than others."

Tecmessa says, ~There are times when changing the leader would be a mistake. This is merely an acknowledgement of this fact.~

Three-Blades snorts and answers with an open jawed grin. Even a war must have it's times of quiet between the battles. That is the peace which is stated.

Joey huhs. "And sometimes the leader bites ass, and if you're not in the middle of a fight'm then take the chucklehead down and get a better leader."

Matt nods. "If the pitch is a right tosser and everyone finks they'd be better off wifout the Ravi, a proper challenge and a read an' write, an' you've got a new pitch. Joost doan' switch 'orses in midstream. The middle of a row is no place fer Labour versus Conservatives."

Valoran gives Matt a rather blank stare. "Huh?"

Agatha has little chance of coping with Matt's accent, and her expression shows this.

Three-Blades glances to Matt, then to Bernie for translation.

Song-of-Fury says, ~The leader may *not* be challenged during wartime!~

Lion's-Roar just looks over at Matt. ~Smoke crack what?~

Matt looks back at Lion's-Roar. ~Go ahead. Prove I'm wrong.~

From the rock outcropping, Vulture retorts, bluntly, ~Since we're constantly at war, this law is EXTREMELY convenient for the powers-that-be, don't you think? I'm not following an idiot to certain death.~

Rides-Fire gives Voice-of-Crows an irritated look. His tail twitches.

Bernie grins broadly at her fellow cub, showing no sign of the confusion evident on many other faces. She catches Yi's glance, and translates for the cockney-impaired, "He said if the leaders an idiot and everyone knows it, you just have a proper challenge and fight and you've got a -new- leader. And the middle of a fight is not the time to do it."

Junior grins.

Adam growls. ~In the middle of a fight, there is no time to ask questions. You get your orders and you do them.~

Kaz points at Bernie. "What she said. You're in deep shit, you don' wanna be fuckin' with breakin' a new leader in. Don't matter if it's convenient or not, it's /true/."

Sepdet joins the ranks of the baffled with a raised eyebrow, then chimes in for the next part. ~Finish off the enemy. -Then- worry about fighting one another. Otherwise you lose.~

Agatha ahs at Bernie's translation, mouthing, "Labor, Conservatives, right."

Valoran nods.

Three-Blades flickers an ear to Bernie gratefully, and lifts her voice again to reply to Vulture. Those who are chosen to lead in battle are chosen because of their abilities to judge the right action. We give them our trust to go the right way. And if not...then that is what the law before is for.

Lion's-Roar just gives Matt an odd stare before retorting to the latest Fool's argument. ~Sure. Show the enemy your lack of balls.~

Song-of-Fury utters the last tenet of the Litany with all of the certainty and determination within him, daring the Fool to argue its wisdom with his dark eyes. ~You shall take *no* action that causes a caern to be violated!~

From the rock outcropping, Vulture looks to be finally running out of steam, but he meets the Litany Singer's gaze gamely enough and stands up straight for the retort. ~You know, I've seen Garou killed over this, which is tragic. It's just a damned piece of land. A pretty piece of land, but nothing more than a place of dirt nonetheless.~

Kaz just stares. Finally, she says, "Yeah, a piece of dirt that fuckin' radiates th' power an' th' energy Gaia gives us. Yeah, that's all. Not much at all. Only our past, present, and future..."

Steven says, ~It's so much more than mere dirt. It is the spiritual heart of a sept and our people. It deserves nothing less than our blood and sweat.~

Robert's eyes narrow dangerously and he swells up to crinos. ~It is the heart of Gaia! It is Her power that pulses through a caern, Her presence within that keeps it pure.~

Adam gives a glare at the Metis Fool that would burn holes through more mundane things. "The Caern is our Lifesblood, our connection to Gaia, and we have lost too many already. Grey Sky, Last Days, Gaia knows how many others. There /is/ no rebuke to this law. We defend them with our lives."

Helen pipes up, loudly: "Fuck that, the caern is Gaia! We need to keep 'em safe, or else we'll end up all fuckin' dying! It's Gaia's heart!"

Agatha mutters to herself, "One would think even a metis male would be able to feel the power of the Mother at a caern..."

That piece of dirt is Gaia's face, and you'd do right to respect Her territory else get throated, growls Three-Blades. The Wyrm defiles enough of it we don't have to help the fishbait do it.

Lion's-Roar just points a thumb in Robert's direction. ~Yeah. What he said.~ ~So ends the calling of the Litany. We thank the Fool for laying bare the ill-wisdom of defying our most sacred precepts...~ The Galliard shifts, again taking his Glabro form before striding back to lean against his tree in contemplation.

Song-of-Fury contorts and blurs as he is transformed. Song-of-Fury shifts into Glabro form.

By the steam vents, Persephone starts a soft, low howl, little louder than the wind blowing through the caern. Gradually, the howl builds in intensity and volume; at the same time, the billowing steam from the vents cascades out, mixing with the mist from the waterfall. The amalgam flows outward, filling the caern, coating everyone in a thin sheen of water that's warm and chilling at the same time. For just a moment, it's pea-soup thick, limiting vision, and the Fury announces that Fog is present and the sky is Open. The mist gradually dissipates, and the theurge pads closer in towards her packmate.

From the rock outcropping, Vulture's muzzle dips, his wings pulling inward as he shrinks back to homid form and steps down to rejoin his tribemates.

Kaz breathes inwards deeply, and mutters something under her breath.

As the mist thickens, Agatha's smile widens. It's good to be here. It's good to be *home*.

Koschei mutters something in Helen's ear as he comes alongside her, then drops to his knees, looking a bit pale and stiffly withdrawn.

Jarred nods to Jamethon as he arrives.

Jamethon offers a nod back to his former and hopefully soon again to be packmate.

Matt inhales the fog, sniffing. "Joost like Old Bows."

Rides-Fire's irritation lessens slightly as the caern totem makes its presence know. He, like most others in the four-legged forms, is less bothered by the lack of sight than the two-legs.

Three-Blades rumbles softly and leans briefly against Sepdet. A bit less harsh than Wendigo's touch, is Fog. Her ear flickers towards Soulcatcher. No offense meant, of course.

Roger has been standing distant from the main crowd mostly for a decent amount of time, keeping peaceful.

Bernie watches the fog with definite interest, removing her glasses once it passes to wipe them on her shirt. Foggy lenses do little good.

Tecmessa's smile grows, somewhat, as the Sky is opened, and then she heads to the Outcropping. Shifting into Crinos, she breaks the thigh bone over her leg and announces, looking around at the gathered Garou, ~As we have come together for ages on end, so we gather tonight. As the marrow, the heart of the bone, is found, so we will find the heart of the matter tonight. Let those who wish to speak, come to take the bone.~ Her gaze drifts around and falls on Kyle.

Kyle scowls as attention falls on him, and he steps forward to accept the bone. Once it is in his hand he announces, in a controlled matter-of-fact tone, ~A new pack has formed under great Fenris. Signe is our alpha, with Chaser and Kristof. We call ourselves Fenrir's Teeth.~

Geoff looks to Piotr as he enters the caern, but looks back to the center and remains ceremoniously quiet.

Kyle looks around briefly for any reactions, then hands the bone back to Tecmessa.

Jamethon opens his mouth slightly teeth shining out as he growls deeply at the announced pack news.

Tecmessa accepts them calmly, and looks around again, gaze falling on Steven. She offers them in his direction.

Kaz grunts, oddly enough grinning slightly in Signe's direction.

Lion's-Roar just stands there, stoicly sneering.

Agatha watches Kyle, apparently still trying to place him. After a moment, the pieces seem to fall into place, and she nods.

Rides-Fire's ear flickers, but the hispo seems unsurprised. Joshua Halfhand flashes a sharp-toothed grin as he crouches to touch his packmate's fur.

Three-Blades dips her head towards the announced pack, and glances up towards Sepdet with a flick of an ear before turning her attentions back to the announcements.

Signe catches Kaz's look and her scowl briefly manages to look more like a smile. As Kyle returns to her side, she gives him a satisfactory kind of nod.

Piotr arrives late, but quiet.

Steven takes the bones from the Truthcatcher. ~First Strike has parted company with Wolverine. We are now sons of Cougar, and call ourselves Final Strike. I'm serving as Alpha since Nightflash left for Western Eye.~ The Fianna looks toward Rides-Fire, and then gives Tecmessa the bones.

Rides-Fire bristles a little at this assertation, his tail raising. The Stargazer makes no other overt move at this time.

Tecmessa takes them back, and searches the crowd for Sepdet, offering her the bones silently.

Alicia continues to listen, remaining silent for once. Her eyes train upon the moot as it flows.

Agatha shifts slowly to Glabro as she listens to the announcements.

Shadow-of-Blood growls slightly, looking from Steven to Rides-Fire and back.

Sepdet slips forward to receive the bone and rests it lightly in a palm while she speaks. ~The Dancers who defiled Lake Arthur are slain, their Banes destroyed, and many of you have helped with cleansing and calling back the lake's spirits. Now a new pack guards Arthur's isle, honoring Crossing, Ouroboros, and others who have defended its waters. The island is for Garou who need healing and rest, to renew your strength for Gaia's battles. Those who needs extra claws to cleanse and tear the Wyrm's taint from steel in the city, call us.~ She seeks out eyes from the crowd. ~Three-Blades. Two-Souls. Thunder-Runner. Flamecaller. Myself. We are Avalon.~

Three-Blades curls her tails around her forepaws as Sepdet announces the forming pack's intentions, glancing to Tecmessa as the bones are returned to the Fury.

Joey's eyebrows lift in surprise, but he does give Yi a smile of congrats at the announcement.

Jamethon nods his head briefly at Sepdet's words.

Guides-the-Dead chuffs in Three-Blades' favor, offering a lupine smile to Sepdet.

Jarred nods to Yi in approval.

The Fury takes the bones back with a slight smile, and then offers them to Rides-Fire.

Junior grins over at Yi.

Roger looks a bit suprised at the new pack information there and seems to be pleased with the speech.

Koschei listens with chin in hand, his eyes veiled behind an overlong tangle of hair.

Three-Blades dips her head to those who acknowledge her in grateful thanks.

Sepdet gives Tecmessa an oddly sheepish smile and pads back to rejoin her packmates.

Bernie smiles silently over at Three-Blades, and pulls her knees up loosely to her chest, wrapping her arms about them as she listens.

Joseph, standing beside Three-Blades, lifts his chin a little in a proud display as Sepdet makes the announcement. His eyes search the garou for reactions.

Chaser nods minutely, her eyes narrowing a fraction.

Kaz mutters something under her breath, and grins a little.

Steven folds his arms in front of him.

Rides-Fire, still irritable, finds it easy to surge up into the war form in order to take the bones from the Black Fury. Turning to the gathered sept, he says in a carrying voice, ~I lead you tonight, against our enemies near the Hidden Walk. To the north is a place that Nightflash, Finds-the-Lost, Balancer and I scouted, after one of its spirit guardians came here with a warning. It is called Gaia's Tears. Its Garou have become corrupt. We must go to that place before the caern itself is lost.~ The Stargazer searches the crowd until he looks directly at Peacekeeper. ~The Children of Wyvern will come. They will need others to guard this place. We will need others to fight. We may be able to cleanse these Garou, if we can take them alive. Prepare. We will go when the moon lessens its call, so the rage will not force us to kill unless we choose.~ Turning, he thrusts the bones back at Tecmessa.

Jarred lifts a brow in response.

The Fury takes them, blinking slightly in fascination, and offers them to Owen.

Adam looks up, hearing this. He looks a bit surprised, but doesn't comment.

Jamethon licks his teeth absently as he takes this in, a sigh soon follows.

Lion's-Roar steps up from his spot in the crowd to take the bones from the Truthcatcher. ~Stonebreakers, after helping to defeat some dancers a couple months back, broke up that very night and is no longer a pack. I'd like to give my appreciation to Jarred, Jamethon, Shadow-of- Blood, and Quick for a job well done. On that same note, I will be heading a scouting mission to Hanford. Shadow-of-Blood is joining me, for I need his nose. Jarred will to, as he is familiar with that place. I am asking for others to join us. Ragabash or any others who have a penchant for stealthand scouting. Get with me after moot.~

Koschei glances up at mention of Ragabashly scouting, then scans the Moot crowd, his eyes picking out Allie and Piotr.

Tecmessa takes the bones back from the Get and searches the crowd for Joey. She offers them to him, once she finds him.

Guides-the-Dead mentions that she will be proud to stay and guard the caern.

Joey walks purposefully towards the center of the Gathering, taking the bone shards from Tecmessa with a measure of respect. Turning to the crowd, the Gnawer puts on a look of seriousness, and explains. "I'm looking for form a pack," he starts. "Garou who are interested in being trackers. If someone loses something, this pack would be the ones to go find it. If someone's missing, we'd go and bring them back, too. I have some ideas for Totems, but I might not know enough so I'm also open to suggestions. If anyone's interested, talk to me or Junior afterwards." That said, he hands the bones back to the Fury, and goes to sit back down.

Devil makes for idle minds, and Helen is tapping idly on the ground with her hand. "Ragabash?" she echoes, and snorts. "Damn. Can't."

Junior grins at Joey, and whispers to him as he comes back.

The Fury nods to the Bone Gnawer, and then offers the bones to his tribemate and fellow Ragabash, Yi.

Three-Blades shifts up to hispo, taking up the bones in her jaws and setting them down before her forepaws. ~Sepdet-rhya spoke of cleansing the Wyrm from the city's steel, and now I seek those who would find their hearts aching to fight the Wyrm, and call them to drive the fishbait from the blight of the sewers sewers.~ Her golden amber gaze narrows briefly. ~Twice we have gone in, and twice we have come out with knowledge that the Wyrm breeds below. That is not enough.~ Her narrowed gaze travels around the faces of the Garou gathered. ~We have a piece of rotting meat down there, and it's growing maggots as we speak. I know some may not think we 'Urrah scum' have the right judgement to take on this, but that is our home, and I for one will not wait for the trash to grow before taking it out.~

Three-Blades then takes the bones and brings them back to Tec before returning to Sepdet's side.

Kaz snorts and mutters a quiet "Right on," though she says it very quietly.

Kyle's nose wrinkles.

Tecmessa offers the Gnawer a nod, and then searches the gathering for Allie. She offers the bones to her silently.

In the back Roger grins and gives a very quick and quiet golf clap.

Sepdet gives her new packmate a feral smile of approval.

Signe leans over to talk quietly with her packmates, after the Gnawer's announcement.

Guides-the-Dead steps towards Tecmessa, and blurs up into her birthform. The Strider takes the bones from Tecmessa, and announces with a slightly faltering voice, ~Leda Faithkeeper is not here tonight, and I am the beta of the new pack called Perseverance. The pack consists of Faithkeeper, Lightning-Crashes, myself, and Vulture, and we are running together under the guidance of Raccoon. Our task is unknown at this time, but we're looking for others to help us in our quest, whatever that may be.~ And the fifteen year old Garou hands the bones to Tecmessa and quietly slips away, face ruddy with a sort of embarrassment.

Joshua Halfhand's interest was sharpened by the Stargazer's announcement, but Three-Blades gets a positively intense look.

Piotr smiles gently as the Strider comes away from her speech, and raises a hand in acknowledgment to her.

Three-Blades feels Joshua's eyes on her as she listens to the other announcements, and briefly glances back at the Get.

Koschei smiles wanly.

Allie giggles quietly at Piotr. In a definitely teenage gesture, she smacks her hand against the Shadow Lord's in an awkward high-five. "That was really embarrassing," she says, and seats herself next to her packmates.

Again, Roger shows intrest at a speech... this time he actually looks serious though as he takes an awkward but purposeful step forward, then just sighs.

Sepdet shoots her youngest tribesmate a bemused grin, possibly missed in the crowd of taller Garou.

~Let all those who are new to the Sept come before it and introduce themselves,~ says Tecmessa, laying the bones down in front of her.

Collin gives a grin towards Sepdet, himself. Really, he's just being quiet. It's something that's not-often rare for him at moots, however.

Shows-The-Path's gaze drifts to Tecmessa for a brief moment and she takes a hesitant step forward. The brown wolf tilts her head curiously.

And that's where Helen stands up, moving towards Tecmessa. "Do, I, like, introduce myself, or something, 'cause I didn't before?" the ragabash queries, head tilted.

Valoran rises and moves forward to stand just before the center stone. "I am Valoran Xavier Grey, called King's-Gambit, Cliath Silver Fang Ragabash. I have come from the honorable Sept fo the Jess and Hood and submitted my chiminage to my able elder here. I seek membership in this venerable sept."

Bernie glances at Kaz, lifting a brow in question.

The metis nods at Bernie, and mutters something to her.

Three-Blades looks at Valoran, sniffing as well to take note of his scent as he introduces himself to the sept.

Geoff steps forward out of the circle of the crowd, and stands with his head up and shoulders back. "I am Geoff Stuwaqa Runs-with-Thunder, Cliath Full-Moon of the Wendigo, child of Orca and last son of the Tcak-Kudi clan of my people. Joseph Two-Souls, honored among our people, has accepted my chiminage. I wish to stay at the Hidden Walk."

Chaser raises an eyebrow, slightly. "Keen," she murmurs, glancing to Joseph for a moment and giving him a nod of approval.

These introductions and announcements of receipts of chiminage bring wordless nods from Brian. Who has been here all along.

Dierdre takes a few hesitant steps foreward but puts a grin on her face and walks slightly bolder as she walks to the bones and picks them up. "I'm Dierdre for those of you I don't know. I just returned here for my Rite of Passage. Umm... I'm Fianna and a Ragabash." She shrugs her shoulders. "I guess that's about it."

Rides-Fire's ear tilts backwards. Turning to Shadow-of-Blood, he says in the quieter lupus speech, It makes me angry when they do that.

Matt perks. New Fianna? He seems to forget that it isn't his job to keep track of the comings and goings at the Farmhouse now that he has a place of his own.

Steven gives Dierdre a small pat on her back, and a nod as she returns nearby.

Shadow-of-Blood snorts bitterly. They are ape-born and foolish. They do not think.

And up steps Helen, peering at the bones absently and glancing 'round the crowd. "Um, I'm Helen Tisandros. Black Fury Ragabash. Cub. Tec--" A point at Tecmessa, "--said I'm going on my rite soon. Called Eris."

Dierdre smiles at Steven happily and looks around at the varied responses. Matt gives the new Fianna a welcoming nod.

Bernie nods at Kaz, and stands up a bit hesitantly, stepping out of the crowd to where she can better be seem. "Hi," she announces. "Bernie Rosenberg, Reads-In-Darkness, Bone Gnawer Ragabash cub, an' hi. Thanks for havin' me." She grins, running a hand through her curls, and heads back toward her place in the circle.

Dierdre smiles back at Matt.

Rides-Fire's attitude continues to sour. Indeed.

Kaz gives Bernie a thumbs up.

Three-Blades swivels her ears towards those that announce themselves as new, giving Geoff a light chuff as brief glance to Soulcatcher. Bernie's introduction draws her gaze back and she whuffs softly to Bernie in approval.

Koschei stands again and steps up to introduce himself. ~Koschei Mardas, called the Vulture,~ he says, speaking only loud enough to be heard. ~New Moon born and metis of the Black Furies. Rited this past year. I follow Raccoon under the pack Perseverence.~

Max grins from behind Bernie, her own arms folded across her chest. When Bernie returns she murmurs under her breath at her tribe- and auspice-mate.

Geoff nods to Three-Blades in acknowledgement.

Shows-The-Path's form contorts for a moment as she shifts up into Hispo. Her gaze wanders across the crowd as she introduces herself. ~I am Shows-The-Path, Half-moon Glasswalker Cliath. I was cubbed and Rited in this very sept over one year ago and have thus returned after a personal quest to learn my heritage. I seek acceptance back into the Sept. I've already received the acceptance of my Tribe."

Matt leans over to mutter to Bernie. "Better reception than oi got, Books. Oi coulda been Rob Roy in a hairdressers for all the looks Oi got."

Agatha gives her Elder a minute bow as she steps up when Cindy is done. Turning to face the crowd, she announces, ~For those who do not know me, I am Agatha Ioannides, Cliath Artisan of the Black Furies.~ Even in the Mother's Tongue, her Greek accent can faintly be heard. ~I was Rited in this Sept, then called away. Now I have returned. Before I left, I made a vow at the Rite of the Cornerstone of the Shelter in Kent Crossing. That vow remains unfulfilled.~ She clears her throat, then continues. ~However. I say to you tonight, I am not here simply to fulfill this vow. I will not leave when it is done. I am here, at home at the Hidden Walk, to stay!~ She sets the bones back in front of Tecmessa and heads back to her seat.

Tecmessa fairly grins at Agatha, and then looks around for anyone else.

Three-Blades also gives Shows-the-Path a quick whuff, flickering her ears to Lucca as well before turning back to the moot activities.

Koschei, having returned to his seat, lapses back into silence.

Bernie smiles at Kaz and several others as she sits, breaking into a grin again at Matt's comment. "Thanks," she murmurs back.

Adam just watches, listening as Agatha re-introduces herself.

Chaser's brow furrows slightly as she watches the young Fury; she purses her lips in a slight frown, studying the girl as she walks back. The Get's eyes are hard, measuring.

Joey looks to Bernie, and just smiles, shutting up.

Shadow-of-Blood relaxes just a little at the last few introductions. Reminded by a metis. Not all have dropped their teachings.

Lacking anymore newcomers, Tecmessa takes the bones again and offers them to Robert.

Agatha either doesn't see the Get's hard stare or ignores it completely.

Peacekeeper takes the bones and steps forward. ~Once again, it is my task to preside over the Challenges. There are several this evening. First, Sepdet,~ he says, gesturing for the Strider to come forward and issue her Challenge.

Joseph's eyes immediately go to the little Strider, glittering anxiously.

This rivets Kaz's attention, right there.

Joshua Halfhand gives a short, derisive laugh as the metis goes to announce her challenge.

Leonard watches from a bough of one of the trees ringing the circle, silent.

Three-Blades could be seen to barely lift her lip in show of teeth towards the Get laughing, but wills her patience in and looks to Sepdet instead.

Steven's lips press together tightly, his eye narrowed.

Sepdet paces forward again and dips her chin silently to Peacekeeper, then turns to face the crowd. For once she rises up to war-form briefly, not that it's very far up, eyes locking on the alpha. ~Brian-rhya, you have been here all the years I have served this place, and know more than most my mistakes and triumphs. We have had our differences. We have our understandings. My alpha, I challenge you for adren.~

Agatha watches Sepdet quietly, picking up on, but not completely comprehending, the tension surrounding this Challenge until the metis announces whom she is challenging.

Chaser's eyebrows both lift, this time. Then her eyes narrow as she watches Brian's response.

Kaz starts bouncing on the balls of her feet from purely intense curiousity.

Kristine's brows arch from her silent, watchful spot next to her packmates.

Max's dark eyes flicker to and fro between Sepdet and Brian as she slouches nicely, arms still crossed.

Three-Blades remains calm enough, having heard from Sepdet herself her intent to challenge the Alpha of the sept for rank. Golden amber eyes search out the leader and his response.

Rides-Fire's tail flickers, his fading irritation changing into a more unfocused agitation as Sepdet announces her challenge. Joshua Halfhand just lets his lips curl in disgust.

"Accepted," Brian answers, readily enough. "Here are my terms: you'll sit down with me sometime before the moon's new, and you'll convince me that you've done enough, despite your frequent disappearances from sept life, to be counted as Adren. Simple as that." A small smile cracks through his fierce demeanor, that brought on by the moon. "Boasts that make me laugh earn extra credit." Collin stares at Sepdet. He just stares at her. Then he rapidly lifts a hand to cover his mouth. Whatever he's doing, be it frowning, smiling, or trying not to laugh out loud, is kept concealed behind said hand.

Signe eyes Brian and snorts, shaking her head.

Kristine's brows rise up in honest surprise at Brian and his terms.

Three-Blades rumbles softly as Brian's response is heard. ~Application pending, following a brief interview. Don't call us, we'll call you.~

Bernie giggles at Yi, quietly.

Kaz blinks. "Huh," she mutters, half approvingly.

The corner of the Strider elder's mouth crooks into a thin moon-smile; she ignores the perfectly understandable skeptic looks from several quarters and has eyes only for Brian's answer. With a nod, she slips back to her place, giving Three-blades' muzzle a gentle slap. ~Shh.~

Agatha half-smiles, muttering quietly, "That will be more difficult for Sepdet-rhya than for some others."

Joey looks to the two female Raggies, and puts a finger to his lips. He's smiling.

Peacekeeper simply nods in response to the terms, then turns to Lion's-Roar. ~Lion's-Roar is next.~

Alicia watches from her spot next to Adam, a wide grin touching her lips as she brushes away a few strands of hair from her face.

Lion's-Roar steps forward once again, keeping the war-form he's worn since the moot began. ~I have been at this Sept for some time now. Like me or not, I think most of you know me and what I have done here.~ He turns to face Kyle. ~Kyle Thunder-Eater, I stand before in our ancient way. I challenge you to prove the title of Fostern.~

Three-Blades snorts good naturedly and nips the Strider elder with a soft whuffle close enough to be a wolven giggle.

Chaser's expression darkens, though a little twist comes to her lips.

Adam looks to Alicia, nodding. Though there seems to be a little look of anxiety on his face, here.

Joshua Halfhand looks more sullen as time goes on. As the fostern Get is named, his mouth twists even further downward and he crouches by his packmate.

Kyle nods seriously as he steps forward, ~I accept your challenge.~ He states clearly, colored by a frown. ~Here are the terms: Find two worthy Garou who think you're worth a shit in the woods. You three will face off with me and two of my choosing. First we'll attack your renown, and you and your... defenders will retort. Then we'll all fight. I'll find some Philodox or other to judge the outcome. Gotta be wise enough, honorable enough, and glorious enough.~

Kaz grins at Owen, then tilts her head thoughtfully at Kyle's terms.

Piotr cocks his head, quietly listening.

Persephone chuffs encouragingly at her packmate.

Agatha smirks as the loudmouthed Get is told his terms, but says nothing. Lion's-Roar nods, a low growl escaping him. ~Accepted.~ He then returns to his spot in the crowd.

Peacekeeper simply nods again, then looks around for a moment before his gaze lights on Rides-Fire. ~Rides-Fire. You are next.~

Rides-Fire does not shift, remaining in hispo form as he steps forward. His call says simply, ~I challenge Defiant Storm, ahroun of the Get of Fenris, for the rank of fostern.~

Tecmessa seems faintly surprised at this, but it's soon subsumed in complete approval.

Signe, just as bluntly and to the point, steps up, shifts up to crinos, and answers. ~I accept. Here are my terms: A fight, in the two-leg form of your choosing, to honorable surrender.~

Kristine gives a soft chuckle, low enought hat only her packmates can hear at Signe's terms.

Three-Blades flicks her tongue briefly over her muzzle at the mention of fighting for rank. Seems fair enough to her, mostly.

Rides-Fire seems slightly startled at the terms, but he chuffs his assent. ~When?~

Steven gives a small frown toward Signe.

Shadow-of-Blood's hackles rise slightly at the terms, but that's all the show of reaction he's giving yet.

Kaz mutters, "That oughta be worth watchin'," quietly to Max and Bernie.

Max steps closer to Kaz and leans up and over to murmur a question to the galliard.

Signe says, ~Whenever you're ready.~

Rides-Fire considers that. After a breath, he asks further, ~You will fight in the same form? Will we use our rage and our gifts?~

Kaz tilts slightly, listening to Max, and then mutters something to her.

Signe bares her teeth before answering. ~I will fight in the same form. No gifts, but we may use our rage.~

From afar, to Joey, Bernie, Max, and Three-Blades, Kaz ums, Elan, maybe?

Three-Blades twitches her tail over her forepaws. Still is fair enough.

Max lifts a hand and nibbles at a fingernail, her gaze flickering from Kaz back to Signe, her brows furrowed.

Rides-Fire bares his teeth at the Get and shifts upward. Perhaps surprising to some, he doesn't stop in the most familiar crinos form. Instead, the Stargazer does not stop until his human hand points at her. In his gruff, accented voice, he says, "Fight now, after rest, before Revel. This form."

Kaz mutters something under her breath.

Signe bares her teeth again and then reverts back to her breed form.

Three-Blades blinks in surprise, and the glances over to Signe shifting down as well.

Peacekeeper nods once again, at both the terms and the cliath's wisdom, then turns and looks at the galliard who began the moot. ~Storm-Singer,~ he says.

Serf jerks his chin in a nod at Robert, waiting for the rest of the moot to conclude before stepping forward.

Jarred shoves off from the tree against which he has been leaning and walks forward to stand in front of Steven, speaking evenly. "Steven MacDiarmud, Heart-of-Fury: Though we, too, have many differences, to this Cliath your competence, bravery, and your worthiness to hold the rank you do are inarguable. With all of the respect due the position you hold in our great sept, I challenge you for the rank of Fostern and bid you accept in good faith."

~There are cliaths of this sept with more glory," The fostern Fianna Galliard begins his reply. ~There are cliaths with more wisdom. And there are cliaths who have been at the Walk longer. In fact, septmates, this Shadow Lord's major claim to renown consists of fleeing in the face of an extraordinarily powerful enemy, and usurping the authority of the Fianna over their cubs. Yet here tonight, Song of Fury claims he is ready to be called fostern. Very well.~ Steven draws a breath, and looks at the assembled Garou. ~My terms are this: One week from this night, you will tell a story of this sept's history which shows Glory and Wisdom. Then, when you are done, I will tell a story and judge which is better. If you beat me at this test of your auspice -- convince me that you've won, then you will be a fostern in my eyes.~

Serf has partially disconnected. Serf has reconnected.

Agatha shifts down to lupus and sits for a moment with her tribemates before excusing herself and padding over towards the Warleader. Once there, she puts her head on her paws and waits for Rides-Fire to acknowledge her.

Kaz snorts sourly.

Serf glances down at the Black Fury, once she gets his attention from his Fianna packmate.

Sepdet grimaces with the look of one who's bitten into the wrong sort of lizard, but whether at the subject of the speech or the speaker is impossible to guess.

Three-Blades rumbles her own quiet agreement of Steven's terms. Even the Gnawer in lupus doesn't know the whole history of this sept, and judging by the size of it, there must be quite a history to tell. Her eyes flicker up to Sepdet curiously.

Jarred doesn't flinch. "Shadow Lords, as always usurp where they feel such behavior is needed. Be that as it may, if the contest is to be a test of venom and uncouth savagery in verbal form, you'll win. But if, as you say, the story is to be judged on Glory and Wisdom, You will find me a tough competitor, Steven. I accept."

Chaser snorts quietly, and mutters something to Kyle.

Steven shakes his head at Jarred. He taps his head a couple of times. Then falls silent, crossing his arms again.

Peacekeeper looks curiously at Jarred, then finally nods and turns to his packmate. ~Dies-For-Others. You are next.~

The coal black wolf wags her tail and then gets to the point. This wolf would volunteer to stay and guard the Caern tonight. She would beg to be included when the Warleader leads the Sept to Gaia's Tears.

Alicia glances over to her teacher.

Jarred holds Steven's gate expressionlessly before moving back to the tree.

Adam stands up, taking the Warform. ~Megan Firewatcher. We may not have agreed all of the time, but you know what I have done here, as Guardian, Child of Gaia, and Philodox. My Challenge to Nightflash, Fostern of my Tribe, was nullified as he has left for Western Eye.~ He fixes the Fostern Fianna with a steady, unwavering look. ~I am Adam Dies-for-Others, and I Challenge you for the Rank of Fostern.~

Leonard blinks and stares at Adam, almost falling out of the tree.

Signe smirks in answer to whatever Chaser mumbled. As for herself, she occassionally eyes Serf, eagerness apparent in her eyes for the moot to conclude.

The Fianna returns the cliath's gaze evenly. ~You have questioned my judgments and we have disagreed loudly. Nevertheless, I will accept your Challenge. As a challenge between philodox, it will be even, and it will be fair. You have earned that.~

Dies-for-Others bows his head to Firewatcher. ~Your will,~ he says, simply, showing respect before he sits back down.

Alicia smiles over to Adam and touches his shoulder, giving a squeeze of encouragement.

Sepdet rubs absently at a moon-shaped white scar on her neck, following the challenges quietly but intently, measuring the sept's reaction as much as the challengers.

Peacekeeper nods once again, then gestures towards Signe and Rides-Fire. ~So concludes the listing of Challenges. There is one Challenge waiting to be held now.~ He nods to the pair, then looks meaningfully towards the rock slab. ~It might be better if you did not fight too near the pathstone and possibly damage it,~ he says, a small trace of humor in his voice.

Tecmessa looks from Megan to Adam with a small, approving smile.

Serf dips his head and walks toward the rock without looking back.

Signe pulls her jacket off and shoves it into Chaser's hands before approaching the rock slab. "Hold this," she says, as she moves off.

Kaz mutters, "Awright," and moves somewhat closer, to get a better look.

Perhaps it is with the full moon, that Three-Blades rumbles with feral interest as she looks to the two challengers.

From the rock outcropping, Before he goes to the stone, he did acknowledge both the Black Fury's requests and indicate she should speak to Peacekeeper.

Agatha wags her tail once or twice at Serf as he climbs onto the rock slab. Keeping one eye on the forthcoming Challenge, she worms her way through the crowd to Peacekeeper's feet, to make her offers to him.

From the rock outcropping, Signe starts the fight the moment she gets to the slab. Aiming a kick at the Stargazer's torso, she blurs with the use of her rage. Again and again the Get aims brutal strikes at Serf's head and chest, while the Stargazer does his best to stay away from her. This only enfuriates the Get more, and the blows that she does land stagger Serf in ths awkard form.

Peacekeeper nods to Agatha, somewhat absently. ~You may certainly guard tonight. We will speak later about the assault on Gaia's Tears.~

Sepdet sets a hand on Three-Blades' back, teeth bared in another disconcertingly feral grin as the battle grows animated. Just the thing to get in the mood for a revel. ~Stay cool, Stargazer! Get her mad!~ she calls encouragingly.

Kaz seems fairly neutral on who she's rooting for; she just seems to want a good fight.

Steven is clearly rooting for his packmate.

Alicia gently nudges Adam, then leans over to softly whisper to him.

Three-Blades looks up to Sepdet as the hand touches her back, and thumps her tail against Sepdet's leg. For good measure, she roots Signe on just for an opposing thrill. ~Lay it on him Signe-rhya!~

From the rock outcropping, Serf manages to keep his feet, even when a solid blow rocks him backwards an unexpected step. Pushing further back, he steps up his pace as he begins to circle the fuming Get of Fenris. A few agonizingly long seconds go by as she strikes out after him in lunges that him manages to dodge because of the distance between them. Then, suddenly, the Stargazer flings himself directly at her and swings crude, hard blows with his fists. Both land, rocking the woman, though her injuries are not yet serious. Immediately, Serf retreats outside her range. Furious now beyond thought, Signe spends more energy in the chase, striking at his back. "Coward!" The challenger does not waste breath in answer, spending all his energies keeping his body under control and striving for distance.

Chaser's eyes light as she watches the fight; her hands clench and unclench, expressing the tension in the rest of her posture.

Kyle seems to have every confidence in Signe's victory. He watches and tries to maintain an impassive air... but he's not terribly good at it. As blows land, his thin lips curl in a silent snarl.

Agatha makes her gratitude clear, staying near the Warder until he can spare the attention to tell her where he wants her. She watches the fight with evident interest, but without an obvious preference for either combatant.

Kaz starts grinning. "Hey, go for it, Rides! I mean, hell, pissin' her off ain't hard, but go man go!"

Dierdre watches the fight interestedly, but not excitedly.

Sepdet smiles faintly down at Yi. ~This,~ she predicts softly, ~is going to hurt.~ The ruefulness of memory colors her tone.

Kaz snorts. "No shit." Perhaps she's gone at it a time or two with her former packmate.

Kristine leans down to murmur in Tec's ear, "Should'a brought pocorn."

Tecmessa murmurs quietly, wincing at one of the blows to Serf, "Baklava."

Three-Blades rumbles back up to Sepdet, her own ears flicking to and fro with the thrill of the fight. ~Hope they don't frenzy on one another.~

Lion's-Roar just drums his fingers along his arms.

Kristine taps her chin, "Never had it, actually."

Bernie sits up straighter to try and get a better view, watching with curious interest. She shifts positions, sitting up on her knees for height.

Peacekeeper shakes a head at Three-Blades's comment. ~Nothing to worry about. If either of them moves from homid, the challenge is over. They agreed on a form.~

"Sig might, but th' Stargazer dude, he ain't likely to. Sig kinda likes losin' it sometimes." Kaz has opinions. Kaz shares opinions. There's a shock.

Tecmessa looks shocked at her packmate. "Kris! You must come to the Fury house and try some. Finest thing on earth, for those with a sweet tooth."

From the rock outcropping, Signe continues the chase, and continues to hurl insults of cowardice at the Stargazer. More rage allows her to catch the awkward homid and lay into him rather harshly with three rapid blows. This time the Stargazer does go to his knees, but he's able to scramble away before Signe can land a fourth blow. Again he begins the chase, and again she snarls, moving after, when suddenly the lupe-in-homid rounds on his attacker and lands a solid punch to her face. Rocked by this attack, Signe spits up some blood and maybe a tooth. Now, grinning, she attacks again. The game goes much as it did before.

Three-Blades turns her gaze towards Peacekeeper. ~Not worried about the challenge. Worried about if we can stop them should they frenzy.~ Her grin is goodnatured, and she returns to the fight.

Peacekeeper shakes his head again, attention still mostly on the fight. ~Like I said, don't worry about that. All taken care of.~

Matt grins, reminded of other nights, other friends. his hands twitch for a cigarette.

Sepdet drops to one knee by Yi, murmuring in her ear. ~The trick is getting your opponent to frenzy without getting yourself ripped to shreds. Control is power.~

Steven says, ~C'mon Rides the Wave of Fire! Hang on.~

Shadow-of-Blood barks excitedly for the other lupus, regardless of Rides-Fire's current form.

Kaz appears to have abandoned neutrality for the 'root for the underdog' approach. "Go man go!"

Kyle scowls and calls out, "Break his fucking knees, Signe! He won't run like a bithch then!" Kyle's choice of words can be poor sometimes.

Chaser's grin widens. "Someone's gonna ride the wave, tonight, but I don't know that it's gonna be /him/."

Alicia isn't as excited as the others by this one on one battle. She leans back from Adam and pushes herself up.

Joseph's muscles twitch, and the Wendigo's dark eyes reflect a desire for fighting. The battle seems to be putting him in the right mood for the revel. The only encouragement he offers the combatants, however, comes in a triumphant, worldess call when Rides-Fire hits the Get in the mouth.

Three-Blades listens to Peacekeeper and Sepdet's words, then settles her ears in a normal position as she watches the fight continue, now just riding that thrill of the battle.

From the rock outcropping, Serf spends more time trying to keep out of her way, occasionally failing, but succeeding enough to give himself the breathing room that he seeks. Once she clips him on the side of his maimed ear, catching him by surprise. Ducking slightly in his wince of pain, Serf plows a fist into her stomach before backing up. The blow knocks the breath out of the Get of Fenris, giving him a few moments to gain distance.

Kristine grins a bit at Tec, "Now that I have an invitation, I will drop by." She lifts her hands up and claps, getting into the spirit of the cheering squad, "Kick'er tail!"

Leonard's eyes watch the fight but his mind seems miles away. He slips down the tree with ease and approaches Adam, hesitantly.

Tec looks somewhat surprised. "You hadn't had one before? Remind me to shore my mind up, it's leaking."

From the rock outcropping, It does a little more than knock the breath out of her. Signe holds an arm against her left side, where she knows at least one rib is cracked. Her breaths are sharp and shallow, and now she seems content to let the prey come to her. "Come on you fucking bastard. I'm done chasing you," Signe says, and now it seems the Stargazer is more on even ground, but the fight has far from left the Get. If anything, her tactics are smarter, more precise.

Adam is watching the fight, curious, but does catch the approaching movement. Leonard gets a raised eyebrow, an unspoken question.

"Diana used to allow me to come over all the time." Kristine seems sullen for a moment, "But I haven't been there since.." She doesn't finish, instead taking the opportunity to cheer Rides-Fire some more.

Chaser grins, a savage baring of teeth. "Yeah," she approves.

Kyle nods and growls quietly as Signe's tactics settle down. "About time."

From the rock outcropping, Serf continues to circle, waiting, seeing if he can draw her out again. Signe refuses to budge, though she does swivel to face him, smiling grimly as her hands flex in anticipation. Finally, after severl long breaths, the wolf-born Garou lets out an inarticulate howl and charges into the fight, only now fully committing with rage and actions.

Tecmessa says, with a slight grin, but entirely sincerely, "Then let me say, Kristine, as a packmate and as one I enjoy, you may come whenever you wish."

Kaz sucks a breath in through her teeth, nervously.

Kristine winces, "Okay, this is going to get ugly." She smiles her thanks to her packmate.

Three-Blades rises to her large paws, ears pricked forward eagerly at the howl. Her fur ruffles a bit in anticipation, as seems the challenge is reaching a climax.

Steven's teeth grit, his own fists clenching.

Leonard seems more uncomfortable as Adam looks at him, glancing away. He shakes his head and moves back towards the trees.

Peacekeeper continues watching the fight impassively yet closely, both the arbiter and the one who'll have to stop any frenzying.

Lion's-Roar just keeps his cool gaze on the combatants, still drumming his fingers on his arms, a slight feral grin coming to him.

"...'ands up, 'ands up, mate..." Matt mutters, queitly giving Serf the benefit of his meager street-boxing experience.

From the rock outcropping, The wait is longer than Signe expected, and the Get's impatience almost surfaced again. She remains tenacious, however, and in the meantime, the lupe manages to heal a good deal of his wounds. The homid doesn't have that luxury in her birth form. Nevertheless, when the attack comes, Signe rejoices in it. A furious exchange of blows continues for several long moments, first one and then the other having some small advantage. In the end, though, the now-stronger Stargazer gets the final blow and knocks Signe to the ground. Disoriented, she gives her submission through gritted, bloodied teeth.

Kaz pumps her fist. "Aw/right/!"

From the rock outcropping, Serf staggers a step, grunting out in turn, "Accept." Breaths coming hard enough to shake his body, he attempts to search the crowd for Peacekeeper. Blood trickles from a healing wound on his face as he waits.

"Yes!" Steven shouts out. He whoops out proudly.

Three-Blades lolls her tongue and lifts her voice in a congratulatory howl to Rides-Fire. Rarr!

Kristine claps wildly, "Whoohoo!!"

Lion's-Roar just scratches at his chin as the battle concludes.

Joey is just watching, fascinated. "Woah," he mutters, impressed by both sides.

A jubilant howl breaks from the Talon at the submission, though he contains himself quickly enough. His tail and perked ears, though, readily betray his feelings on this challenge's conclusion.

Leonard glances over at the fight at the sudden commotion from the audience, then shoves his hands under his armpits and looks away.

Junior nods to Joey. "Good, aren't they?"

Kyle shakes his head, startled by the outcome. After a sigh his expression settles into a scowl.

Alicia glances over towards the victory, then settles her hands back into her pockets.

Peacekeeper nods towards the rock slab. ~Rides-the-Wave-of-Fire, with your successful challenge of Defiant-Storm, you are welcomed to the rights and responsibilities of the Fostern among the Garou.~

Sepdet growls approval, shaking her head slowly. She thumps Yi's back and gets to her feet.

Kristine murmurs to Tec, "eventually I'll get that far." She gives a soft chuckle, as if it's a private joke.

Three-Blades rumbles softly to the Strider, fur smoothing as the rush in her blood dies down some. ~Hope your Challenge isn't as painful, eh?~

From the rock outcropping, Signe climbs to her feet, eventually, after Robert's pronouncement. She slips up to a healing form and offers a hand to the Stargazer. It's clear the desire to take the fight to a real enemy burns in her eyes, but for now she just offers her hand to the Stargazer. ~You lead us tonight, yuf.~

Bernie sits back down crosslegged again, and grins, shaking her head slightly. She leans over slightly to comment quietly to Matt, "...hmm, an' t' think at school they insisted fightin' wouldn't getcha anywhere..."

Sepdet grins down at Yi. ~My last one was.~

Tecmessa murmurs, with a faint chuckle of her own, "Sooner rather than later." Alicia wanders over to Sepdet and Three-Blades, sinking down to her knees next to the Raga' New moon.

Matt bahs, playing with his lighter. "they weren't Garou, then, were they? Seriously, Oi'm in the mood for a read mesel'. Wif this moon, if we don't Oi'll be all chicken oriental by daylight."

Three-Blades offers the Coggie galliard cub a short nuzzle with her large furry head, glancing back towards the others as they speak of the Revel.

Alicia wraps her arms around Three-Blade's neck, giving her a big hug into her fur, then releases, her eyes twinkling a bit with mirth.

Three-Blades glances to Matt and whuffs at him. ~I heard that.~

Kaz heads over to Adam. "Hey, yo, Adam?"

From the rock outcropping, Serf also takes the war form, offering his hand to his opponent even before she's fully to her feet. His touch isn't so much in the traditional handshake as a clasp of arms that might seem odd to the American. Leaning back his scarred head, he howls out to the sept. ~Tonight we kill what of the Wyrm that dares to come near this place. We are the Garou of the Hidden Walk! We are strong, and none can challenge our territory and survive. Feel your rage! We are one, and we now fight in the spirt world for our home!~ With that, the Stargazer turns and begins to move toward the pool.

Serf pages to Chaser, Kristine, Steven, Collin, Signe, Joseph, Leonard, Adam, Kaz, Kyle, Alicia, Joey, Bernie, Max, Koschei, Three-Blades, Shadow-of-Blood, Lion's-Roar, Matt, Tecmessa, Junior, Sepdet, and Peacekeeper: Inspiration has been activated. :)

Adam is watching the current festivities. Kaz gets a nod. "What's on your mind?"

Kyle contorts and blurs as he is transformed. Kyle shifts into Crinos form.

By the waterfall, Rides-Fire approaches the waterfall from the center of the caern.

Kaz jerks her head at Serf. "I gotta go whup butt, but if you wan' temporary folks, when you're off visitin' Canada on the non-vacation plan, I'm willin'."

Heart-of-Fury joins the howl, and follows Rides.

Heart-of-Fury heads southeast, towards the waterfall. Heart-of-Fury has left.

By the waterfall, Heart-of-Fury approaches the waterfall from the center of the caern.

By the waterfall, Chaser approaches the waterfall from the center of the caern.

Adam nods quietly. "I have no problem with it. Just inform Robert when you can."

Bernie pauses, running that sentence through her head. "A'ight," she grants, "...got me on that one. Chicken oriental? An' if they were, they sure hid it damn well..." She gets somewhat distracted by the new proceedings at that point, though.

By the waterfall, Shadow-of-Blood approaches the waterfall from the center of the caern.

Three-Blades howls long and loud, feeling the cry of the Stargazer as she shifts up to her warform. Not immediately following though, her eyes ablaze gaze at Sepdet.

Three-Blades contorts and blurs as she is transformed. You shift into Crinos.

Alicia glances over to Adam and raises a brow. "Will I be allowed to partcipate in the Revel?"

Kaz nods. "Sure thing, boss. Thanks." Shifting down to hispo, she belts after Rides-Fire.

By the waterfall, Rides-Fire waits until his pack is around him before the three children of Cougar pass through the Gauntlet as one.

Leonard moves towards the pond, eyes gleaming. He strips and shifts up into crinos, leaving his clothes in a pile next to the pool.

By the waterfall, Rides-Fire's eyes stop on his reflection in the pool at the base of the waterfall.

By the waterfall, Rides-Fire gazes into the pool at the base of the waterfall, and suddenly he vanishes.

By the waterfall, Leonard approaches the waterfall from the center of the caern.

By the waterfall, Heart-of-Fury's eyes stop on his reflection in the pool at the base of the waterfall.

By the waterfall, Heart-of-Fury gazes into the pool at the base of the waterfall, and suddenly he vanishes.

Sepdet tells Three-Blades apologetically, ~I'll catch up with you guys. I know the Lake's safe tonight, but I just have to check, y'know?~

By the waterfall, Leonard's eyes stop on his reflection in the pool at the base of the waterfall.

By the waterfall, Leonard gazes into the pool at the base of the waterfall, and suddenly he vanishes.

By the waterfall, Defiant-Storm approaches the waterfall from the center of the caern.

By the waterfall, Defiant-Storm's eyes stop on her reflection in the pool at the base of the waterfall.

By the waterfall, Defiant-Storm gazes into the pool at the base of the waterfall, and suddenly she vanishes.

Three-Blades rumbles and nods, then moves to follow the rest of the packs across.

By the waterfall, Thunder-Eater approaches the waterfall from the center of the caern.

You head southeast, towards the waterfall.

By the Waterfall
The edge of the valley forms a sheer rock face on this side of the Caern, perhaps 10 meters straight up, studded with outcroppings and lined with narrow cracks in a tracery of spidery fractures. Over the top lip of this natural wall streams a narrow, glass-like sheet of water that hurls itself into a small pool at its base, throwing up spray to soak the stones there, the rock behind it, and the surrounding earth. From this pool the water flows in a shallow bed toward the southwest before disappearing below the surface of the earth again in what must be an underground stream.
To the west, cool mist kicked up by the falls mingles with warmer steam from geothermal sources; these mists swirl around the caern to the north. The caern's center lies northwest of here. You can pick out what seems to be a hazardous trail over rock and up the wall, to the side of the waterfall.
Contents:
Thunder-Eater
Shadow-of-Blood
Chaser
Obvious exits:
Steam Vents Center Windy Spot Up the Trail

Thunder-Eater's eyes stop on his reflection in the pool at the base of the waterfall.

Thunder-Eater gazes into the pool at the base of the waterfall, and suddenly he vanishes. Thunder-Eater has left.

You start to reach through the umbra.

Three-Blades's eyes stop on her reflection in the pool at the base of the waterfall.

The landscape shimmers in a myriad of colors, and you are through.

Three-Blades gazes into the pool at the base of the waterfall, and suddenly she vanishes.