{ meeting of the century [open to all]

[Ezio°]

[atrb=border,0,true][atrb=cellSpacing,0,true][atrb=cellPadding,0,true][atrb=width,500,true]

[atrb=background,http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g210/Tonwe/Table/Graverobber2.png] "Zydrate comes in a little glass vial" Rattle rattle. Rattle rattle. Long legs picked their way across the hill as the multi-toned male walked from one of his drug raids. Around his neck was a classically designed bright red bandanna filled with pill bottles and prescriptions. He held a map between his teeth, a map of Hexasol that had paw prints of ink over sections of the city he'd raided already. There were some marked, but most weren’t, he had more homes to go through. Graverobber lifted his head contently, his tail wagging behind him before he noticed the sudden gathering of canines and felines all over. His tail wagged lazily behind him when he noticed how many were around and talking. He tilted his head and poked his tongue out from his muzzle. There were so many! So many opportunities for genetic perfection! So many theory and philosophical questions hat could be pondered. He perked his ears forward. The husky's front legs were coated in dirt and mud, his pelt smelled like a graveyard and he paced a couple times, unsure if he was welcome to join the ranks of those who mingled amongst each other. He took in their scents, drawing in the smell of so many different pelts, trying to find those he knew, those who he might have associated with once or twice. He huffed when they all came jumbled together and couldn't seem to get it. That was until one scent flooded his nostrils and triggered the memory in his brain. His tail stuck up when he recognized one pelt and scent among the rest. He nearly bounded down the slope towards his new friend but instead, he sat down and watched, feeling rather awkward and separated.

[{Mactíre}]

[atrb=border,0,true][atrb=cellSpacing,0,true][atrb=cellPadding,0,true][atrb=width,450,true]

[atrb=background,http://i42.tinypic.com/33ufp07.jpg] Valkyrie glanced from the young lion as he spoke her and her mother. Denim? What an awesome name - and it suited him, too. And son of Florence and Panja? She knew Panja! She glanced behind her as her mother moved back slightly, and saw none other than the old white lion sitting there. Wgging her tail again, she greeted him, "Hello, Panja! It's a lovely day, isn't it? It's good to see you again!" Turning back to Denim, she told him, "You have an awesome name, Denim - has anyone ever told you? Can we be friends? My name's a bit longer and different, I know, but that doesn't matter, really, right?" She beamed up at the young lion, vaugly acknowledging that parhaps she should calm down slightly - she didn't want to be seen as a little cub - or worse, a cute little cub - when she would be a great warrior someday, did she? As others arrived and approached them - an old black wolf and a puppy - the cub turned to see. The wolf was saying something about a. . . Marriage? Cocking her head to one side, she addressed the pair, "I don't know anything about a marriage, but. . . I'm Valkyrie, and you are?" She eyed the puppy with interest, knowing he was from Tempest, but not much else. She turned back to Denim, her gaze flickering beween him, the she-cat, and the two canines. Hearing a voice from somewhere behind her, she noticed Antigone standing there. "I'm making friends, of course! Felines are awesome!" The last sentence was spoken in something between a howl and a cheer.

[/justify][/size][/blockquote][/color][/td][/tr][tr][td][/td][/tr][/table][/center][/size]

[atrb=border,0,true][atrb=cellSpacing,0,true][atrb=cellPadding,0,true][atrb=width,450,true]

[atrb=background,http://i41.tinypic.com/kf5pph.jpg,true] Rikki smiled wryly at Demin's words, her eyes steady as she gazed into the face of Florence and Panja's youngest living son. She saw nothing of his mother in him, but something of his father - he seemed to be a peaceable lion. "It's a pleasure to finally meet you, Denim. Ah, but times are changing, and during my time as a captive, I found that not all felines are hateful - or hateable, if that is a word. I was a fool for not realising it sooner, and I suppose my scars are in a warped way a testament of what I believe about our kinds, even though their being there is due to your parents. Besides, no-one can order me to hate you, even if I do dwell in the Tempest Pack. I've started to think, lately, that maybe I no longer belong there. But you don't seem to mind canines so much, either, young sir." The last few sentences were spoken in a slightly lowered tone, so that anyone who was listening in could hear, but not necciasrily clearly. She wasn't afraid to express her opinions, but she didn't want to cause a fight to break out in this peaceful setting. The white wolf's ear pricked up at a quiet greeting from nearby - she looked up to find Panja settled in a patch of weeds near her. A small smile formed on her face again, her words quiet but with a touch of warmth in her tone as she spoke, "Good day, Panja. How is life treating you at the moment? You and Florence seem to have raised at least one child we can all be proud of." She didn't quite know how that observation slipped from her lips, but she meant well by it - she wasn't even sure if she'd made enough of an impression on her children to convince them that felines weren't all evil and that fighting wasn't always the best option.

[/color][/td][/tr][tr][td][/td][/tr][/table][/center]

[offtomars]

[atrb=border,0,true][atrb=cellSpacing,0,true][atrb=cellPadding,0,true][atrb=width,450,true]

[atrb=background,http://i820.photobucket.com/albums/zz129/sorrelpaw102/ChellTable1Middlecopy.jpg?t=1342632476] "Speech" Chell smiled, pleased with the young lion. He seemed very kind, as far as the small feline could tell, and even chuckled when faced with her comment about his age. She liked this Denim. He'd be a wonderful specimen. Chell had a kind of expression on her face, one of curiosity and the eagerness of a kitten. But at the same time she felt as if she should act more reserved. This lion was younger then she was, and acted a lot more mature then she had been. 'Hold on now, what do you even care?' Chell asked herself, and it dawned on her that she didn't, really. Denim was apparently the son of Florence and Panja, leaders of the Iris Pride. Chell was... interested to say the least. And when he had introduced himself as such, he didn't seem to pleased with the fact. Ah, such a curiosity that led to such a trouble. "Well, Denim, I wasn't aware that not only was I in the company of a lion, but a lion with social ranking." Chell paused, and smiled, a vague cloudy look coming to her eyes as she looked him over again. "Terribly interesting." She purred, tail flicking above her back. Chell seemed to come right out of her daydreaming with the mention of science. "Ah, I'm glad you asked!" The tabby coated feline was more then prepared to give Denim the whole story, the whole nine yards about her research. She could take about it for hours, a speech was even prepared for this kind of thing. But she was, in her mind, very rudely interrupted by a small black wolf cub barreling headfirst into Denim's side. Which wasn't in itself very bad. She logged reactions, fur color, body shape of this new cub, who introduced herself as Valkyrie, maybe of the Tempest Pack. Chell was glad that most creatures introduced themselves with their pack name, she didn't have the ability to smell each of the scents on them. Which was a particular disappointment, as she couldn't add this to her long lists of observation. The small feline held back a small squeak of excitement when Valkyrie's mother, an aging and scarred white wolf. Ah, what a story she must have! "I'm Chell, loner and scientist. I'm very please to meet you, Valkyrie." She nodded at the pup, and gave a respectful nod to the pup's mother. Before a real conversation or even some sample collection could take off, another set of creatures crowded around them. An old black wolf, and a small dog pup. The old wolf spoke of marriage, and Chell flicked her ears at him. The hell was going on here? Her confusion only became worse as more and more creatures, canine and feline alike, piled around them. Their words rang in Chell's ears, and her fur stood on end. The tabby feline could feel herself beginning to panic. She tried to calm down, take a deep breath, just stop and think. But her mind was going into overdrive, and she was ready to bolt her way out of this mess. Too many... Too many...

[SMIFFAGRIFF]

[atrb=border,0,true][atrb=style, background-image: url(http://i1099.photobucket.com/albums/g399/SmiffDemon/leowolf.png); width: 499; height: 499] Lee huffed in irritation when it seemed no one paid him any heed. Well. He'd just have to step up his swagger a few notches wouldn't he! He glanced around at the gathering of animals, eyes straying to the large group around Denim, and then back over to Panja and Kira. He found his lip curling ever so slightly at the lions, but he shook his head. No - no. They could be perfectly friendly for all he knew. Those stories from the battle before his birth were all over and done with. There was peace... for now. That was why this gathering was taking place right? Still, the two of them made him uncomfortable. At least Denim was younger... and a couple of wolves like him seemed to be interacting with him fine. Putting back on his sneer of complete confidence, Leonardo lifted his head and tail high, his nose turned up, and trotted like he was the star of a dog show over to the large gathering. He came onto the scene just as Valkyrie introduced herself to Denim, and without a moment left wasted, he walked between the two of them and sat right down, "Woah woah woah, Lion-O and Val--" how the hell did he say that name of hers? "Volcano. Sure I'll call you that. 'Sup? I'm Leonardo! Lee for short! Don't leave me out of the fun now!" He wagged his tail rapidly, thumping against the ground and spurring up some dust. Beside him, Chell piped up about being a scientist, and Lee immediately whipped around, eyes wide - damn his puppy curiosity! He just had to know more, "A scientist? Like like.... a mad scientist? Can I call you Doctor Horrible?"

[atrb=border,0,true][atrb=style, background-image: url(http://i1099.photobucket.com/albums/g399/SmiffDemon/brooke-2.png); width: 499; height: 499] "Speech!"

[/color]
Thoughts
Actions

***
[/center]
"Keep an eye on Kira. I don't trust any hair on her,"[/color] Brooke murmured to her General. She wasn't worried about Panja. He seemed to be a moping mess from the stray whispers she'd heard. She was sure that at some point she'd have to speak with the white lion, but she was less interested in his presence than the appearance of a new friend she'd made some time ago.

A small smile worked its way onto her face as she spotted Graverobber. What a strange dog - but oddly charming in his own special way. Of course, Brooke could tell he wasn't having such an easy time of just coming down and saying hello. He wondered how the rest of the dogs and cats here wold receive his presence, with his glass vials and paper map. Not to mention his... unique hobby. She excused herself from Heuso's presence for the moment and padded over to the Husky, "Long time no see."[/color]



[/div][/td][/tr][/table][/center]

[zeph]

[atrb=border,0,true][bg=#F2F5BC][atrb=width,500,true][atrb=cellpadding,9,true][atrb=cellspacing,9,true] Basil watched and observed the interactions in the group. His eyes weren't as sharp as they used to be, but they were still working fine. A large group of mixed canines and felines were gathering. A few lions, wolves, even a small domestic cat who seemed to be receiving a lot of questions. Basil turned his head to look at the other gathering groups. He could easily smell Tempest on a small group of canines, and Iris scents were everywhere. The elderly wolf hound stood up and moved closer to the mixed group. He heard something about a mad scientist- Dr Horrible? He continued to approach, but sat down before getting too close. Sometimes he felt that he was bothering people. After all, he was just an old dog that was a newcomer in Hexasol. He had spent a long time without a pack or even just a canine or feline companion, so he wasn't the most confident in his social skills. Maybe this was why he hadn't joined the Lexis Tribe. There is no doubt he would fit in with their beliefs, but he was a bit shy when it came to that. He looked up at the sky a moment. He hoped that the beautiful day wouldn't be scarred by any tensions of this meeting being brought to violence. A battle would do nothing for this country but create even more hatred and continue the war. He hadn't been here long, but in the time he had been in Hexasol, he had decided that war was not the answer. That may seem like an uneducated decision to those who supported the endless fighting, but to a canine who had known peace for most of his life, war was not even an option. He would never hurt another living creature unless it was absolutely necessary, like hunting for food, or defending against an attacker. Basil shifted his weight and looked around, hoping he would be spoken to. This group setting was making him feel slightly uncomfortable, sitting all alone. ~so why don't we go somewhere only we know~

[atrb=border,0,true][bg=#021401][atrb=width,500,true][atrb=cellpadding,9,true][atrb=cellspacing,9,true] and you have every right Alto looked around frantically. Why had he gone into such a powerful trance? Now he was trapped in a meeting of dogs and cats. The cats terrified him, and since he had learned of the war here, so did the dogs for the most part. His heart was pounding, his body pressed against the ground in an attempt to disappear. He felt like everyone there could hear his heartbeat. A panicked feeling grew inside him. There was a lump in his throat that felt like a boulder. Slowly, he moved toward the edge of the trees. He kept alert, and noticed that the wolf he had met a while ago was there. Valkyrie, he thought. Unfortunately, she was around cats. And lions, at that. For a moment, the clouded leopard hesitated. What if he was perfectly safe? No, that was impossible. Anybody in this meadow could want to kill him. Suddenly, he jumped out of the grass, nearly hitting one of the meeting goers as he bolted to the tree line. As soon as he was there, he was up a tree in seconds. His heart was pounding, but as he moved out on one of the branches, it slowed to a normal rate. He was safe here, for now at least. He had the advantage of being higher up and being able to see everything. He had been vulnerable on the ground, but now that was solved. He settled down to watch the meeting, paws gripping a thick branch. to be scared

OOC: Wow, sorry for the crappy post >.<

[Zen]

[atrb=border,0,true][atrb=cellSpacing,0,true][atrb=cellPadding,0,true][atrb=width,450,true]

[atrb=background,http://i1198.photobucket.com/albums/aa446/jadedog08/panja2-1.png] Panja blinked in confusion when Denim approached him, not having the faintest idea why he would have wanted to attend a boring meeting like this if he didn’t have to. Panja hadn’t even forced Alex, his heir, to come. “Son?” he said, surprised, but Denim had already turned away from him. Not that he could really blame him. Most cubs his age were embarrassed to be seen hanging around their parents. Instead he looked down at Rikki, shrugged and answered, "Things have been...quiet around the Pride lately. I hesitate to call it peaceful, but I can't say there hasn't been a noticeable change in the air. I'm quite enjoying it, to be honest with you. And how are you faring?" He watched her closely, wondering if he should tell her what he was planning, but the thought slipped his mind when she made a strange comment about Denim. "What exactly is that supposed to mean?" he asked with the faintest trace of a snarl. All of his cubs were equally special and worthy of praise in his eyes. Not understanding, he looked over at Denim again and saw that his son did seem a bit overly enthusiastic about this gathering, which Panja found really bizarre. That was partially the reason he hadn't brought along his other two cubs - he knew they'd only create trouble and botch up all his plans for peace. He didn't have time to think about Denim any longer, though, because right away one of Rikki's own kids bounded up to him, causing Panja to visibly wince. He did not need everyone knowing he was on relatively good terms with Rikki's entire family. So ignoring the hyperactive puppy, he stood up to acknowledge his two close friends, Kira and Sota, who were now loyally at his sides. He was too preoccupied to engage them in idle conversation, but knowing they were here was still comforting. Neither of them would ever allow someone in the crowd to try and hurt him, especially Kira who was gifted with her mother’s strength and fierceness. Not that Panja couldn't defend himself if need be, but his mind wasn’t on combat or killing, nor was he as alert and ready for anything as he usually was while in the presence of enemies. But he could imagine Kira boldly leaping in front of him to tear open the throat of some crazed attacker, and the thought made him smile. Eventually he noticed Brooke and, without another word to anyone else, turned to make his way over to her while continuing to ignore the many pairs of eyes that were now locked on to him like a moving target. Already he had some ideas for how this arrangement could be made without sacrificing the dignity of either Tempest or Iris, but it would only work if she was willing to listen to what he had to say and not immediately dismiss it as some kind of joke. The fact that many of his pridemates were now staring at him in utter confusion would hopefully tell her that this was not a trick or a trap either. He so far hadn’t discussed this with anyone else. “Leader of the Tempest Pack,” he addressed her dryly. “I’m going to skip the preamble. Would you or would you not be willing to create a truce between our packs?”

[/size][/blockquote][/color][/td][/tr][tr][td][/td][/tr][/table][/center]

[Ezio°]

[atrb=border,0,true][atrb=cellSpacing,0,true][atrb=cellPadding,0,true][atrb=width,500,true]

[atrb=background,http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g210/Tonwe/Table/Graverobber2.png] "Zydrate comes in a little glass vial" Ohmygodohmygodohmygod! When he caught Brooke's eyes, Graverobber's tail went whipping back and forth and his entire bag end swung back and forth. She even broke away to come see him! He didn't scare her when they first met! Fudge yeah! He poked his tongue out and panted happily. Despite his love for talking, he knew how uncomfortable he made others, so for her to actually -want- to see him made his chest stick out a little. He put the map down on the grass and stepped over it. "Brooke!" he greeted with that deep elegant tone. "It has been a long time! How are you?" He said graciously, laughing in content. That was until he noticed there was a massive white shaded lion making a beeline towards them. His tail stopped wagging and he stared at the lion. He'd never seen one so large! Though the white coloring was a defect, this creature did not meet genetic perfection. He was flawed. There was no questioning it. Despite his drug raid, he came up rather short on his findings and retreated to the cemetery to dig up something to study, he couldn't find anything of use there, and unfortunately was coming home almost completely empty pawed. But, in his little bandanna, there was a long shiny chain with a blue vial on the end of it that had been hanging in the room of what he assumed was a teenage human girl. He took the chain due to the fact as the sun was hidden by clouds, it had begun to glow in the dark. He took a step back away from the lion when he spoke about such politics. He nearly retorted to the lion that the lady had a name and he should respect her if she was in such a position to be called a leader, but he assumed he would earn a massive claw smacked across his handsome face. So he kept his maw closed and stood beside Brooke with his head up.

[♥Picasso]

[atrb=border,0,true][atrb=cellSpacing,0,true][atrb=cellPadding,0,true][atrb=width,470,true]

[atrb=background,http://i53.tinypic.com/167uwox.jpg,true] Denim was surprised at how Valkyrie greeted Panja like they were close friends. He narrowed his eyes and looked over at his father. When had they met? Denim had heard that Rikki had once been Florence's favourite plaything, and both she and Panja would have frequent torture sessions with the poor, white wolf. Did Panja have a change of heart? Questions buzzed in his head as he turned his attention back to the excitable cub, "Thank you. Your name isn't too bad either." He quirked a smile. Denim wondered, when he was much much older, whether he would ever have cubs of his own. He would have to find a mate first! Denim nearly chuckled at the idea. The thought of finding love was extremely amusing. He was still young and had many, many years ahead of him. As he gazed at the tired, white wolf, he couldn't imagine the years of suffering that she must have gone through. Shuddering, Denim decided not to think of the utter horror Rikki had been through. She still looked exhausted. Weathered from age and torture. Her body was frail, especially after having many cubs who drained the remainder of her energy. And to think, she had no one to help her raise her children. With Gravity gone, those cubs only had their mother to rely on. How must it have felt? To give birth alone, to look after them alone, to see her mate's face in her cubs? Shaking his head, Denim felt overwhelming respect and admiration for Rikki. "You and I share the same ideas," Denim agreed with the wolf, "However, for you, it has taken a lot for you to trust some felines. I don't know how you do it." He lowered his head when she spoke of his own beliefs with canines, "My Pride would hate me if they found out. My siblings probably do hate me." His eyes widened when Rikki suddenly addressed Panja, mentioning him in the process. Flattening his ears, Denim almost cowered away from his father's gaze. He was surprised that such a boisterous comment had come from Rikki's lips. Turning to the excited cat who seemed very keen to explain science to Denim, unfortunately she was cut off before she could even begin. Denim was very curious about her thoughts on science. Science had very much been a human concept that animals had picked up on over the years. It was more a set of theories than actual proof. Denim sometimes caught himself wondering about the stars that hung in the night sky like a thousand jewels. He wondered why the sun rose in the west and set in the east. He wondered why the moon changed shapes throughout the months, and the trees shed their leaves in Autumn. Perhaps Chell could give him answers. Before Denim could question her, she suddenly seemed extremely agitated. He looked around at the crowd of animals, and wondered whether she was feeling claustrophobic. "Are you okay, Chell?" He asked softly. Before Denim could speak anymore, he noticed his father moving. Denim followed Panja with his eyes, and he nearly fell over when he saw that Panja was approaching Brooke. Did he have a death wish?! Denim was only just close enough to hear his father question Brooke. A truce. Between packs? Denim looked around, to see Iris and Tempest members alike staring at the meeting. Denim certainly hadn't been expecting it, and neither had anyone else. He heard a whisper from the left: "Brooke's gonna tear his eyes out! Another whisper: "D'ya think this could mean peace?" Denim couldn't quite believe his ears. For the months that he'd been living on his Earth, he had wished that his family and Pride understood him. Had he really been missing what had been under his nose this entire time? It was time to see Brooke's response.

[/color][/td][/tr][tr][td][/td][/tr][/table][/center]

[SMIFFAGRIFF]

[atrb=border,0,true][atrb=style, background-image: url(http://i1099.photobucket.com/albums/g399/SmiffDemon/leowolf.png); width: 499; height: 499] Lee flattened his ears to his head. He had gone ignored a second time. This was how it was always going to be, huh? He just was going to be a lone pup forever and ever it seemed. Denim hadn't paid him the light of day, and as soon as Panja got up, the air turned so thick with tension that he was sure that Valkyrie wasn't about to break the silence to talk with stupid guy like him. He drooped, and quietly sidestepped Chell to go sit under a tree. Maybe it would have been different if my siblings had survived. Or even if Mom had joined The Tempest Pack. I hate being alone like this, and that was really the only reason why he was so obnoxious. He wanted the attention - badly. His mother loved him dearly, but she was growing old and sickly. Autumn, his brotherly figure, also was busy these days. Just surviving was hard enough, it seemed. He let out a long sigh, flopping into the grass and putting a paw over his eyes, "This is lame." But only moments later a rustling in the branches above him made him peak from his little moping spot and see just who was nearby. Maybe they would talk to him? It was a feline. A clouded leopard. He seemed... really scared. The fear scent was overwhelming him anyway, "Hey, mister... are you alright up there?" he tilted his head at Alto. "If one of those big bad lions comes I'll protect ya!" he exclaimed confidently. "I'm Lee!"

[atrb=border,0,true][atrb=style, background-image: url(http://i1099.photobucket.com/albums/g399/SmiffDemon/brooke-2.png); width: 499; height: 499] "Speech!"

[/color]
Thoughts
Actions

***
[/center]
Brooke smiled ever so slightly as Graverobber greeted her cheerfully. Well. At least it was nice to have someone happy to see her. She'd felt pretty alienated from the dogs all around her for a while - it was clear many of the older pack members - members like Rikki, had changed. Brooke feared that they thought of her as a tyrant more than a leader. Someone new, a new friend, and one so clearly fond of her presence, was a nice change of pace.

"I'm... alright,"[/color] she responded, tilting her head towards the Husky. "It's nice to see a friendly face and not one so hostile--"[/color] But she had spoken much too soon, it seemed, because only moments later, a shadow crossed her path.

Panja.

She could feel every hair on her pelt raise as her hackles tensed and she fought back the boiling rage at the mere sight of the white lion. This was Florence's mate. She didn't trust him for a damn second - and the disrespectful way he referred to her only made Brooke that much more livid. However, before she could snap, the white lion's request startled her.

Narrowing her eyes, she took a few paces towards the elder lion and snorted, "Is this some sort of trick? Don't tell me you've suddenly grown soft on me, Panja. And show a little respect, asshole. It's Mistress or Brooke. Address me as such, or I won't even begin to listen to this proposition of yours."[/color] She sneered, eyes baring into enemy with such disdain that it almost shook her to her very core. She wished suddenly she could do something like man - use one of those dreaded weapons and kill the beast before her in a matter of seconds.

But she continued to speak calmly, "You come to me with an offer for peace? Why now? Because that monster you called your mate was finally put to rest? You think you know suffering, Panja? Do you know what your mate has done to me?"[/color] She curled her lip up, voice dripping with venom, "You expect me to spare you kindness, when she made me kill my puppies, one by one? Can you imagine doing that to your own children, Panja? Can you!?"[/color] Her voice began to raise as built up emotions finally worked themselves out of her.

"She made my mate rape another female in front of my eyes! Do you understand what it's like to have your heart shattered like that?! DO YOU?"[/color] She went silent after that, wincing. There was nothing left to be said. She did want peace. Brooke was nearing the end of her fighting days - she was breaking apart slowly from the inside out. But as soon as that little sign of weakness had shone, it was gone. Brooke stood as stoically as ever, voice emotionless and level, "Now. Tell me one reason. One reason at all, I should make peace with the Iris Pride. One fucking reason. I'm listening fully, Panja."[/color]



[/div][/td][/tr][/table][/center]

[{Mactíre}]

[atrb=border,0,true][atrb=cellSpacing,0,true][atrb=cellPadding,0,true][atrb=width,450,true]

[atrb=background,http://i41.tinypic.com/kf5pph.jpg,true] Rikki shook her head, sighing to herself at Panja's reaction to her remark about Denim. He just had to take these things the wrong way - she supposed that he wouldn't forget that they'd been mortal enemies less than a year ago. She certainly never would - the mental and physical scars he and Florence had inflicted on her made sure of that - but there was no point in continuing to be his bitter enemy anymore. If someone had asked her why, should wouldn't have been able to answer - except that there was just no point. Watching for a moment as the old white lion made his way over to Brooke, she glanced back at Valkyrie to make sure her troublesome daughter wasn't causing chaos and trotted over to where the Tempest leader - she had never really though of the bitch as her leader - was snarling at Panja.Walking between them so that her tail was in Brooke's face for a moment before positioning herself on one side of her, between the two but not in the middle, where she had been moments ago, the aging Arctic wolf lifted her muzzle to speak. "How can you expect Panja to treat you with respect if you don't do the same in return, Brooke? How can you ask him all these questions when you ripped his mate apart? If it's anyone's turn to seek revenge, then it's Panja." Her tone was neither accusing, nor did it hold any anger, only weariness and gentle reproof. She knew this came close to treason, but she didn't care - neither the ivory female nor her cubs were a true part of the Tempest Pack, and tha was partly of her choosing. Several times, she'd wondered if they'd be better off in Lexis, but in the end she'd always decided to stay with the pack of canines. Glancing from the elderly white lion to the aging labrador mix, Rikki told them both, "I'm not a pack leader, so you may sweep my words aside and go on as you would have, had I nto interviened," here she paused for a moment; the bitterness in her voice as she said that first phrase was unmistakeable, but she had not been able to prevent it. "We need peace for a while, even if it's only for a week or a month. Otherwise the bloodbath will continue without halt, without anyone stopping and thinking, and for what purpose? Revenge? Because this is what it has been about, for a long time. How many more canines and felines will die until everyone realises that it will not bring back the dead? I, too, lost nearly everything to this war - but I'm not perfect, either. It took my body being practically runined and my mind being scarred almost beyond repair to make me realise that there was no point holding grudges any more. For the sake of the young ones, who will rule here when you are gone, we need peace. They will doubtless pick up where you left off somewhere in the future, but if they do not have a chance to experience a world where we can be civil to one another, then they'll think it's only right to continue the bloodshed straight away." Dipping her head, the arctic wolf sat down, wondering where that had all come from, and whether they would listen. Parhaps she should have waited for Panja's response, but what if Brooke's words had caused him to take back his offer? Twtiching her ears, she waitedd to see what would happen now.

[/color][/td][/tr][tr][td][/td][/tr][/table][/center]

[atrb=border,0,true][atrb=cellSpacing,0,true][atrb=cellPadding,0,true][atrb=width,450,true]

[atrb=background,http://i42.tinypic.com/33ufp07.jpg] Valkyrie pricked up her ears as the she-cat spoke. "A scientist? That sounds interesting!" In truth, the cub had no idea what a scientest was or what they did, but she had no time to ask because just then a young black wolf waltzed up. He immediately began talking - he sounded like fun, and he looked to be around her own age. "Lee, is it?" She askked with a chuckle as he tried to pronounce her name. "You can call me Volcano if you want, but everyone calls me Valk." The timber-cross-arctic wolf watched for a moment as he ran off to greet a feline, who she immediately recognised. Alto! Quickly promising, "I'll be back!" to Denim and Chell, she sped off after him, attempting to skid to a halt nd running into somebody for the second time that day. Mumbling an apology to Lee, she became herself straight away as she stood beside him and looked up at the clouded leopard. "Hi there, Alto!" She called up to him. "Why don't you come down and play with us?" She gave the black wolf a questioning look. "You do like to play, right?" Wagging her tail, she glanced from her newest friend to the one she'd met several weeks ago.

[/justify][/size][/blockquote][/color][/td][/tr][tr][td][/td][/tr][/table][/center][/size]

[* chemistry]

[atrb=border,0,true][atrb=cellSpacing,0,true][atrb=cellPadding,0,true] [atrb=width,450,true]

[atrb=background,http://i963.photobucket.com/albums/ae113/gimble2355/alcytablemiddle.jpg] "Talk" The clouded leopard's fur prickled on his spine as he felt the gaze of another creature rest fixedly on him. The unflinching observation made him very uncomfortable, and the cat turned his head towards the back, emerald eyes searching for the source of the sensation. The leopard locked eyes with a creature that made a flicker of surprise seep into his features for a second. It was another one of his kind, another male. Shorter than he was, but slightly bulkier, the other clouded leopard seemed to be very frightened. Frowning, the cat observed him race away into a tree, as if terrified of everything that was in this clearing. Turning back to the meeting, the cat froze when Panja approached the Tempest pack leader. This is going to be good, he thought, watching the black dog tense in aggression. The offer of peace was made, and the leader of the Tempest responded with disdain as she stared her enemy down. The white lion didn't seem very phased by anything though, seeming almost not to care. Her response was biting, filled with anger and hatred even though she kept her tone calm. Her long tirade on what Florence had made her go through almost made Alcyone wince. He was more than willing to fight the Tempest. In fact, he wanted to crush those silly dogs. But he hated the fact that torture was used on both sides to win the war. That was just wrong. The clouded leopard watched Brooke closely, his eyes narrowing as he saw, only for the tiniest fraction of a second, a moment where she seemed to be breaking slightly. A single moment of weakness. Then it was gone, and her traits were emotionless once more. So, she isn't made of stone, he thought, his emerald eyes taking in the Tempest leader. Then, a white wolf stepped up, her wise words echoing across the clearing. She did have a point, but he disagreed. He didn't think the Tempest would ever stop. They were too stubborn for that. The only way of ending the war, was to eliminate the pack. He would have to see it to believe that the Tempest pack would take peace. His eyes went back and forth between the two leaders, wondering what was going to happen next. ------------------------------------------------ words; 384 muse; 5/10 tags; -- notes; --

[Mika]

[atrb=border,0,true][atrb=cellSpacing,0,true][atrb=cellPadding,0,true][atrb=width,450,true]

[atrb=background,http://i45.tinypic.com/2vt8e1d.png] walk talk think 'What is this for anyway?' The young coyote thought as he warily looked to his left and right at the many felines,and canines, that had come to this gathering. He had only come here out of curiosity,and also because Brooke was here. Gus had already grown attached to Brooke during the short amount of time he had been in Tempest, if she was here maybe this wouldn't be as bad as he thought it would be. He jumped back a little when a small, young feline ran by in front of him to join a friend. He probably would have chased after the cat if he didn't quickly notice that it was a loner, not a target for his hatred of felines. After a moment of pausing he went back to searching for his leader. Some of the felines attending this so-called meeting made him feel that he should be more wary. He had already learned to recognize the scent of Iris, and there seemed to be an abundance of them. He could event see a panther chatting with friends. He growled silently to himself and tried his best to ignore the content looking panther as he continued his search. Gus finally spotted Brooke talking with a white lion, but she seemed angry for some reason. As he approached a white wolf had positioned herself between them and, from what Gus was hearing, she seemed to be defending the lion. He stood next to Brooke when the white wolf started speaking, and the more she said the angrier he became. "If you want peace so badly, you should look elsewhere. How do you know someone won't try to take advantage of it?" So he wouldn't draw attention to himself, he tried not to shout as he spoke and slightly bared his fangs. (hope it's okay if I have him come in)

[smudge]

[atrb=border,0,true][atrb=cellSpacing,0,true][atrb=cellPadding,0,true][atrb=width,498,true]

[atrb=background,http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5064/5585398841_9d6c038328_o.png] "old story, same old story."

[/b]

As more individuals slid into the meeting, Hueso was forced to swallow his emotions, fearing the pressure might just fray a strand of his collected exterior. He allowed a casual smile to remain on his face, but his eyes were carefully guarded. He almost flinched when a smaller black and white figure shouldered up beside him, realizing after a second that it was one of his own daughters. He relaxed slightly but a twinge of annoyance tickled his senses. How had Antigone found him here, in the middle of an important conference that could hold the destiny of Hexasol in it's hands? Nevertheless, he offered a warm smile, undoubtedly proud of his little girl even if she did not understand. She was at least brave enough to come out here on her own...a trait Hueso couldn't be ashamed of.

However, her confusion soon proved to hold consequences. Hueso furrowed his eyebrows, realizing that she had come without a preset of peace. "Antigone," He murmured, pointedly correcting her, "It's okay." He reassured her, hoping the look in his eyes would explain the meaning behind his words. He did not have time to explain this to her. Already, Brooke had sidled up beside him on the opposite flank. He couldn't suppress the snort of laughter at her remark, agreeing whole-heartedly. It was ridiculous...the thought that an age old feud would be settled through deliberation. Too much had been lost on either side to end the war now.

A part of Hueso already knew that even if they did forgive and forget, Hexasol's population still thrived on war. In the most ironic sense ever, it was peace. It kept populations stable and even the humans, during their brief periods of peace with other nations, fell to war again and again. A duration of no war would only last for so long before another, more dangerous and heated, battle erupted. "I fear some of these fools are very short-minded. Peace is only temporary." Hueso whispered into her ear, careful so the others wouldn't hear and find offense in his truthful words. After all, he wasn't looking for a fight. But if all the lot were only going to think up the impossible, Hueso would find something better to do with his time.

Caught off guard by her praise, Hueso grinned crookedly. "Of course, you devil. It's an honor to serve you." He replied warmly, a teasing look in his chocolate eyes. "I'm always here for you." He added, more serious this time. Was there something on the Mistress' mind? Yet, before he could ask, she had changed the subject. Hueso resisted the urge to look at Kira at the mention of the lioness' name. He simply dipped his head, waiting until that moment of conversation had passed before casually swiping his eyes across the crowd, resting on Kira for a few seconds longer than the rest. His eyes then lifted to a new canine, a husky of sorts, that Brooke rose to greet. He didn't pay much attention to Brooke then, distracted by the exchange of speech between Rikki and Panja.

He smirked, amused by some of Rikki's commentary, and even more so by Panja's undeniable reaction. Denim, so the lion cub was called, seemed caught up hopelessly in it all. And then Panja addressed Brooke and a all-too-familiar surge of anger pulsed through him from head-to-toe. Hueso straightened, his ears pricked firmly toward Panja as a grimace took shape on his muzzle. He knew immediately that the ugliness was about to begin. Feeling the need to be beside his leader as she spoke, he quickly glanced down at Antigone and whispered, "I have a task for you. I want you to observe every Iris feline carefully during this. Watch their every move, their every reaction, what their eyes say instead of what their tongues lie. You never know when they will turn, but whatever you do, be secretive about it. Tell me what you've learned from how they act after this is over...we will have a discussion together. I promise." Hueso offered his daughter a wry smile. He hoped it would help occupy her while he spoke with the leaders, otherwise she might feel left out. And recently, he had left all of his family out. Guilt stabbed his chest at the thought of it.

Gulping away his regret, he sauntered closer to Brooke, observing Panja through two cold eyes. Brooke released all of her anger and opposition in a matter of several sentences, some of which almost made Hueso wince. What Iris had done to Brooke was still a fresh wound in everyone's mind. It was a blatant questioning challenge, what Brooke had uttered, and the gathering quieted for a for moments after the words had been passed. Rikki was the next creature to open her maw. Hueso felt himself bristling slightly. Was she defending Panja? His ears turned around, clearly showing his displeasure with what had just taken place, while also formulating a reply in his mind.

"Does no one understand? War is the foundation of our souls. It's what drives us to survive. Even the humans fought, as we fight, and as our future generations will fight. Peace doesn't work. It has temporary relief, but sooner or later, a new battle will arise. One with even more blood lust than the first." He added to the cries of indignation, his voice steady and solid as his eyes swept across the mass of faces confronting him. "Rest for a short while may be in order. But, as you all can see, there are too many fresh wounds to have hopes of a resolution to years of rivalry. I cannot weigh the wrongs made by each pack; in a sense, they all equal out. But that's not the point I am making. It's simply that there will be no end to this. There was no end before, there won't be one now, and there won't be one ever." Hueso finished off there, interestingly calm after his speech. It was a difficult fact he had learned to accept through his years of constant turmoil.

[/size][/blockquote][/color][/td][/tr][tr][td][/td][/tr][/table][/center]

[atrb=border,0,true][atrb=cellSpacing,0,true][atrb=cellPadding,0,true][atrb=width,450,true]

[atrb=background,http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5140/5565494523_bca5a82aa3_o.png] "any way the wind blows."

[/b]

Aiyana released some of the tension in her limbs, even managing a small smile as she hauled herself up on to the branch beside the male. He seemed friendly enough. She froze as a familiar tawny form stalked into the clearing, her brain instantly labeling the lioness as Kira. Her sister. And if she wasn't mistaken, her former best friend and litter mate had caught her eye for just a second. A indistinguishable mixture of emotion flooded her, and Aiyana was forced to look away, only then realizing that the clouded leopard had spoken to her. Another feline had also joined them in the tree, and all Aiyana could do was offer a sad smile.

"Oh, uh, Aiyana. Sorry. It's nice to meet you." Aiyana stuttered, her eyes slowly easing back to the crowd surrounding Kira. "Oh, no, that's totally fine." Aiyana added, smiling at the other female. "I really don't know. I don't think there will ever be peace, as nice as that would be..." Aiyana murmured softly, her expression vague and distanced. She decided not to tell the other two felines she used to be affiliated with Iris. She had already taken a big enough risk coming here today.

Her eyes narrowed as the tone started to heat up within the crowd of Tempest and Iris below. Looking over at Alcyone, she could see he had noticed as well. She strained to hear what they were saying, tail flicking in anticipation. Would today really end in a mass battle?

[/size][/blockquote][/color][/td][/tr][tr][td][/td][/tr][/table][/center]

[atrb=border,0,true][atrb=cellSpacing,0,true][atrb=cellPadding,0,true][atrb=width,500,true]

[atrb=background,http://i423.photobucket.com/albums/pp315/smudgeblox/skyellbottom.png] The fact the tabby was late didn't bother him much. Besides, he could always blame it on his crippled leg, right? But, as soon as he arrived, he realized this gathering was a lot bigger than he had thought it would be. Heck, in this crowd, he would be lucky to even be noticed. He was dwarfed by many of the large cats and dogs present. This wasn't a cause for discomfort, however- no, Skye had been through too much for that. Life was too short to worry on meager occurrences. No one would give him trouble in a crowd like this, where the animal next to you could either be your best friend or worst enemy. Hobbling through the assembly, his pale eyes searched for a suitable companion. He could join the felines in the tree...or maybe the canines and felines talking in the huge group...or wait, was that...? Yes. A lone canine, observing the chaos from afar. Perfect, the grey tabby thought, completely disregarding the possibility that the canine could be a Tempest Pack member. He situated himself near the old dog and smiled warmly, careful not to invade his space. "Hello there. Trying to watch without being sucked in as well?" Skye asked kindly, an amused gleam in his eyes. "I'm Skye by the way." He studied the fluffy white dog for a moment longer before turning his head to watch the most prominent discussion going on. It was starting to grow ugly by the sounds of the snarls and growls. Skye shivered at the thought of a huge battle breaking out. ooc; Skye is referring to Basil :3

[Zen]

[atrb=border,0,true][atrb=cellSpacing,0,true][atrb=cellPadding,0,true][atrb=width,450,true]

[atrb=background,http://i1198.photobucket.com/albums/aa446/jadedog08/panja2-1.png] Shaking his head, Panja laughed, “I would if I had even the smallest shred of respect for you. Fortunately, you don't need my respect and I don't need yours for this truce to work. All I need is your pack's cooperation, that's it.” He could see the raw anger and hatred burning on her face. Instinctively he unsheathed the claws on his right paw, quietly and out of sight. Just in case she snapped and decided to attack him. “Why now?” he echoed, raising an eyebrow. “And why not now? Both of our packs have been severely weakened after the last battle. It’s obvious that neither of us can take much more fighting.” His eyes widened slightly when she then practically began screaming at him, accusing him, but before he could open his mouth to retort, the sound of paws crunching on grass and Rikki's tired voice made him swivel his neck around to face her. "It's alright, Rikki. Revenge is the last thing on my mind today." Why on earth was she coming to his defense? He knew she was no friend of Tempest's, but after all he had put her through, he did not feel deserving of her support. The old wolf baffled him sometimes. And amazed him as well. She'd been repeatedly tortured and humiliated for over a year, had been abandoned by the one she loved, and still somehow managed to emerge from all that as a gentle and forgiving soul. It was clear that the past had broken Brooke – shattered her was more like it – just as it had him. But Rikki... she hadn’t let it break her spirit or turn her into something she wasn't. She wasn't resentful and angry, she didn't want revenge, she didn't hate herself or the world, she was still her. Panja longed for that kind of strength. "Your words are as important as anyone's, Rikki. This war is not a dispute between two leaders, it is between two packs, and everyone must have their say." At Brooke he said, “Oh, but you also seemed to have forgotten. Before any of that occurred, you tried to kill Florence and her cubs in that blizzard two years ago - in fact, if I recall correctly, you did succeed in killing one of them. Did you think Florence was going to resist the chance for revenge after you murdered one of her own newborns? You also recently kidnapped my cubs and because of that I lost my son Orbit, not to mention the emotional scars my other two cubs are going to bear for the rest of their lives because of that ordeal. What this all boils down to is that you, me, Florence...we are all the same. We are all murderers and we have all done evil, unspeakable things to one another. And now we have a chance to end it. Rikki is right. Do you really want future generations following this same path that we've created? I'm not doing this because I’m incapable of coping with losing Florence or being a leader on my own. I’m doing it because I love my children and my Pride and I wish to see them safe, without any more blood on their paws." He paused for breath, and his voice was a bit softer, but not pitying, as he added, "Are you going to let the past dictate whether or not to give your pack a future? I’m not. Think of their suffering. Don’t you want to see them happy and free to live out their lives, prevent what happened to you and me from ever happening to someone else? I think you do want this. I think you're as tired of this war as I am.” His whiskers twitched and he turned towards the white dog beside Brooke. "Of course conflict is inevitable. War, however, is optional. Our packs must learn that there are other ways of dealing with conflict besides fighting. In fact, if such a battle like you describe does happen, I'm afraid neither of us will have to worry about future generations - all of us will be destroyed. As I said before, neither Tempest nor Iris are as strong as they once were. Yet you do have a point; I've had those same thoughts myself. We have been fighting for so long that we have forgotten how to do anything else. I might be leader of the Iris Pride, but I can't order everyone to agree with this idea, and I definitely can't end all violence between canines and felines on my own. Maybe this truce won't last longer than a day, or even a few hours. But I see no point in not trying." And then he raised the pitch of his voice so that he was no longer just speaking to the few of them, but to everyone gathered. He hoped he could get at least a few of them to side with him. “And what about the rest of you? Speak up. Aren’t you growing tired of this as well? Don’t you long for peace and the safety of those you love? We could try and stop it all, all this madness, right here, without sacrificing any more precious lives.” He stared back down at Brooke, waiting for a final answer.

[/size][/blockquote][/color][/td][/tr][tr][td][/td][/tr][/table][/center]

[`K E Z Z I ♥♥]

[atrb=border,0,true][atrb=cellSpacing,0,true][atrb=cellPadding,0,true]

[atrb=border,0,true][atrb=cellSpacing,0,true][atrb=cellPadding,0,true][atrb=background,http://i53.tinypic.com/6z3429.jpg] [scrolly:h(270),w(258),sy] "Speech." Of course nobody noticed the black and tan figure hidden in the shadows, this didn't surprise her. That was how she liked it, away from all the action, where she could watch the goings on in peace and quiet. Natiri had never been one to dive headfirst into an argument, no she'd much rather observe. What was the use, it wasn't like anybody would listen to her. She was a nobody, she was nothing to Tempest, Iris or Lexis, they didn't even know she existed. Not that she was complaining, to be in Denim's position would be disastrous! No matter where he went, the legacy of his mother and father seemed to follow him. At least Iri could blend into the crowd of canines that made up the infamous Tempest Pack. She was nothing special and never would be, her father had never led an army to rip the enemy open, led them to their deaths. Her father had never forced another being to murder and consume their own children. Natiri sighed, sometimes she wished that she didn't know everything that she did. She wished that maybe her parents could have been a lone peaceful couple far away from all this drama, away from Hexasol. Would it have changed anything, would Natiri have been any different? Who knows. Light hazel eyes flickered over the shifting shapes of the many different canines and felines, finally resting upon one particularly familiar figure. Denim, her cold blank gaze softened instinctively as she eyed her only friend. It surprised Natiri how she had warmed to the young lion, then again he was the only being that had bothered to get to know her. That she had allowed even remotely close to her and that was how she intended it to stay. The adolescent observed the conversations that were struck up, how the participants slowly began to mingle and Natiri shook her head softly. She had not come here to make friends, that wasn't exactly her thing, no she had followed the rest of her pack here to see what would become of the war. The useless, ridiculous war that had ravaged Hexasol for five long years, years that had so clearly gone to waste. Even the thought angered her slightly, though the bitch immediately cut off the emotion, it was unnecessary. Iri supposed she should stand by her friend, he looked uncertain, unwilling to take the lead in the meeting. Natiri understood how he was feeling, how he wanted to be anything but the leader here. A few characters caught her eye, the fast-talking small cat named Chell, Valkyrie who she knew anyway, and the large white lion who could only be Denim's father. The malamute cross swallowed a prickle of fear running down her spine, Natiri was many things but courageous was not one of them. This male, Panja, was gigantic.. his paws could easily be the size of her head. He could wipe out a dog like her with a bat of one of his colossal club like paws, raking his deadly claws through her skin. Iri shook her head, scolding herself internally 'don't be ridiculous Natiri!' Then there was Rikki, the white she-wolf who stood not far from the pair of lions. She was talking softly to Denim, though Iri could not hear what she spoke of from this distance. Curiosity tingled her paws, though she denied them from carrying her further into the meeting. Her eyes raked across her Mistress and General as they entered, ah.. no this is where things got interesting. Natiri assumed already that Brooke had no intention of letting things simply blow over peaceably. That wasn't her style. She waited a while longer, watching as the discussion began. Brooke's voice became louder, angrier, more vicious. Hueso spoke too, though Natiri dismissed his words. Hexasol could certainly do without such destructive warfare, only a fool would say that it needed it. Iri listened to Panja reply, no this was something she could agree with. She glanced up at Denim, deciding to accompany him, she was his friend and it was her duty at least to provide him some companionship if nothing else. Quietly, the pretty young bitch slipped through the throng of canines and felines alike. She appeared beside the cub, not that he looked like a young kitten any longer. His mane was starting to show, and heck he'd shot upwards, what a fine lion he would become. Natiri smiled softly to herself as she sat beside her larger feline friend, she nodded a greeting. "Denim, it's been a while." she whispered in low tones, hoping not to distract the crowd from the heated debate between Panja, Rikki, Brooke and Hueso. [/scrolly]

[atrb=border,0,true][atrb=cellSpacing,0,true][atrb=cellPadding,0,true]

[atrb=border,0,true][atrb=cellSpacing,0,true][atrb=cellPadding,0,true] [atrb=width,450,true]

[atrb=background,http://i963.photobucket.com/albums/ae113/gimble2355/bearmiddle.jpg] "Talk" The young male could hardly believe his eyes as he saw his sister slink off. Nikita had given them strict instructions to stay at the asylum today, and especially not to try and seek out their father as he was away on important business. Their mother had seemed on edge however, as though she were awaiting bad news. It was bad enough that Estelle was missing, and now their father was away more and more. Bear longed for the good old days, when he and his littermates couldn't have been older than three months. Life was simple then, easy and fun. Now it just seemed complicated and confusing. There were always secrets kept hidden, whispers passed from ear to ear and none of the youngsters were ever told the real truth. Bear sensed that they were being fed lies, that their father was involved in something serious today.. something worth investigating. Rech was probably in the process of tackling one of the larger juveniles, and Bear knew his mother was out back keeping an eye out for.. something. It was quiet, half the pack had upped and left early this morning for some reason. The yearling wondered whether other kids his age were told what was really happening by their parents, it seemed as though Nikita and Hueso wanted to keep the wool over their youngest children's eyes for as long as possible. Well, all that was about to change. The brindled juvenile tracked his sister quietly, assuming that she too was setting off to find out where the pack and their father had disappeared too. He kept quiet, not wanting to disturb her. Antigone was well known for having quite the sharp tongue on her, and Bear knew better than anyone she would not appreciate being stalked. Even by her own brother. Suddenly his duel-toned sibling pulled up short, causing Bear to gasp and duck behind a small bush. He frowned, narrowing his eyes at her before he too spied what he had stopped Antigone in her tracks. Before the pair of them lay a large open meadow, and in it stood a large crowd of cats, dogs, tigers, lions, coyotes, wolves alike. Tempest, Iris and Lexis had arranged a meeting! Bear had to stop himself from snorting aloud, why hadn't his parents mentioned anything? Was this a battle.. it didn't seem as though any of the packs were fighting but what other reason would they all be gathered here for?Bear crept after Antigone, tracking her through the crowd. He couldn't help the ripples of uncertainty that shuddered down his spine, through he held his head high with pride and lifted his tail straight into the air. He met every canines' and felines' gaze with apparent confidence, daring them to challenge him. Probably not a good idea Bear.. He recognized several members of Tempest Pack as he delved deeper into the crowd now, hearing the voice of his father and sister suddenly. He pushed on, before spotting them suddenly. Bear stood silently, not wishing to reveal himself just yet. Antigone sat proudly beside her father, though he saw the confusion displayed clearly across her face, obviously she was as miffed as he was. Brooke stood nearby, along with Rikki and her daughter, Valk. He also spied a young male lion who seemed completely at home surrounded by what should have been his enemy! Bear growled lowly, his hackles rising steadily.. if he dared to lay a claw on any one of his family.. Suddenly Valkyrie darted off, over to a huge ivory lion. Bear's heart skipped a beat, his eyes widening and he couldn't help the involuntary step back that he took. Instinct screamed at him to run from this great beast but fear froze him to the spot. The youngster scolded himself internally, his mind yelling orders at him to stop being such a pathetic mouse. Quickly, Bear straightened up and lifted his muzzle, he would not be scared of this lion.. nuh uh. From where he sat, the juvenile was out of sight of his father and sister. He wanted to wait a while, watch some of what was going on before he revealed himself to the pair of them. He doubted his father would let him wander from his side when he spied him, so Bear decided to make the most of what was likely to be his short-lived freedom. Glancing around, the Akita mix gasped as a clouded leopard bowled him over in his rush to climb a nearby tree. The young dog barked angrily, snapping his jaws at the feline in contempt. He glared upwards but the voice of the large white lion attracted his greater attention. Bear turned and listened to what was going on.. so they were here to discuss what was going to happen next. Would there be peace, or would the war continue? Despite his young age, the brindle akita cross had been introduced to the fact that when he was older he would most likely fight for his pack. For the cause, and Bear didn't have a problem with that at all. He was well aware that all felines were sly, selfish, evil scum that didn't care about anything but themselves. He knew that during battle there was a possibility he could get fatally injured, and though this terrified him.. Bear could never let his family or Tempest down. That would be worse than death itself. So the notion that peace would reign over Hexasol was utterly foreign to Bear, he wasn't sure he could quite comprehend the idea that Iris would not be the enemy, that cats were not evil. What the Hell was this meeting going to fix? What was done was done, nothing could be changed now, or so it seemed. Bear listened to his father, and his chest swelled with pride. He loved Hueso dearly, he was so wise, so brave. He was his idol, his inspiration, his father and Bear would do anything to make him proud. The brindle pup wagged his tail happily, as Panja finished, Bear decided to approach his father and sister. He bounded over cheerfully, a mischievousness grin toying with his face, his curled tail wagging rapidly. "Hi Dad, this is great isn't it! Hey sis." He pawed at Antigone affectionately, bowing down in an attempting to entice her to play. He wasn't really listening to what the adults were saying, he never did to be honest with you. He'd much rather play a game of tag.