2021-08-25 It's Time for Moot, Dudes I

It's Time for Moot, Dudes I

Participants: Garou of the Los Angeles Protectorate

Storyteller: Griffin

Location: Heart of the Caern, Sept of the Smiling Angel

Date and Time: Early Night - August 2X, 2021 - Waning Crescent Moon

Summary: This Moot, several Garou announce their challenges for vacant positions...

A domed cavern holds a metal statue easily half the dome's height, while equally-spaced around the edges of the cave are six ancient domed huts thatched with shaggy reeds, the arch of each doorway facing the statue. In front of the statue is a fire circle, a ring of white stones with charred earth within. The statue is a piece of art far too large to have fitted through the tunnel. Assembled from a selection of recycled metal parts, it portrays a crowned angel with wings spread high and hands outstretched, and on the angel's face a smile that changes tone every time it's looked at, sometimes warm, sometimes wry, sometimes cold and sometimes hungry. The ground underfoot is trampled earth, with bioluminescent fungi dotted about in less-trafficked areas; the fungi climb the cavern's arcing walls as well, in shelves and drapes and stands. When no other lights show, the cavern is dimly-lit by the fungi, the darkness hiding far more than the light can reveal. When there is a fire in the fire circle, the flickering light makes the shadows dance, and turns the doorways of the huts into yawning voids of darkness.

<Storms-at-Dusk> In front of the massive statue that commands the room, there are thee individuals. One, is the recognizable form of the Sept Alpha, Liam "Peacekeeper" King. The second, is one of the rising stars, the black-furred crinos form of Storms-at-Dusk. One could easily mistake him for a Fury, save for the... obvious bits. And then, a third man. Weathered tan skin, iron-gray hair, and a visage that holds many scars, one of them being over his eye. His movements are with a pronounced limp. Only-Ghosts-Behind-Him. The trio prepare the necessary elements of the Moot Rite in quiet, hushed tones. It's not officially started yet, so it would be bad form to approach them. ((This is the IC 'pre-set'.))

<Clint> Abnormally clean. Especially clean. Clint, smelling like very little comes into the heart in full ghetto paladin gear. Along with the rest of him, it's all been freshly cleaned. Handmade, heavy canvas clothes and leather boots. Ratty looking kevlar vest with multiple patches. Over it all is an ankle length fur coat made from a myriad of pelts of city animals. Around his waist is a neon green fanny pack and a rope belt with a large fetish pipe wrench hanging from it. On his beck, held in place by a nylon strap is a shield made from a large stop sign. He moves towards the statue and stops short of any interference with those working on the rite. He gets a small canid figure, a coyote, made from twisted wire and he kneels down to place it on the floor with a reverent bow of his head. He stays still and silent for long moment before he stands and moves away to find a spot out of the way.

<Jingqi> Jingqi escorts Nova down to the heart to attend the moot, dressed in his sharp suit and putting on his g-man impression par excellence. Yes, he's wearing sunglasses underground. Then, he waits in silence, as per usual.

<Piper> Piper has arrived, early and be-blazered though it's tossed over her normal t-shirt so business casual is apparently as far as she's going on the formality scale. She may be quiet, but she's not doing a very good job waiting... she's stopped pacing but every so often shifts from one waiting spot to another. Testing out all the vantage points?

<Alicia> Alicia arrives with everyone as people gather for the moot. She looks around the crowd to see everyone who is about as they wait for things to get started.

<Gabe> Gabe sits against the wall with Eve, just chilling and being an unusually quiet Ragabash. Unusual for him anyway.

<Nova> Nova arrives shortly once Jingqi, aka Hui Fen, brings her inside the heart. This evening she's wearing a sharp looking blue business jacket along with her usual business attire dress. Even in a place like this, she's got her medical badge ID attached to one pocket, representing Tower Wu. To those she knows, she dips her head in a nod for recognition.

<Corey> "No, I've never been to one before, have you?" Corey says quietly. She's standing towards the center-front of those who have gathered for the once-monthly moot next to Callum. Corey herself is dressed as she usually is -- like she's either coming from, or going to some sort of workout. Her arms are folded over her stomach, and her conversation with Callum is hushed. This does, after all, seem a touch more formal than the decidedly informal once-weekly 'It's Tuesday, My Dudes'. She lets her eyes lazily wander those present up front -- Liam, Storms, and Only Ghosts. Corey uncrosses her arms from over her stomach and lets them rest on the back of her head, elbows pointing out at either side.

<Petal> Petal arrive at the moot while adorned in a old brown sweater and old blue jeans. Her dark curls are wild and messy. She moves with the athletic grace of a highly trained warrior. Once here she quickly looks over the cavern to get a sense for things.

<Cedar> Cedar enters with a stiff and formal gait, head held high and eyes cold as tries to find the sweet spot between 'in the way' and 'still able to see' that few Kinfolk strive for at these things. He's dressed quite casually, but there's Glyphs honoring Unicorn smeared on his wrists and face, black and dusty, drawn in ashes. He offers a reverent dip of his head to Liam, and a respectful flash of throat to Dusk.

<Edge> After a couple more rounds of 'drilling' of Valentine, Edge gives a nod to him. Their grin is teasing, the raspy words aloud lost to most of the crowd: "Now you are ready," they proclaim, though the tone of it sounds more like quoting a line in a tease than *actually* proclaiming it. "I wanna challenge properly as Crinos," is explained to Valentine... and probably to anyone near enough to hear that low, husky whisper. "I'll talk slow if I have more to say than my challenge."

<Lucky> Lucky sits on the floor, forearms raesting on his knees, quiet and motionless, only missing a 'Please help, god bless' sign and a tin cup.

<Nathan> Arriving just a few minutes early is Nathan. This time, he wearing a formal, tailored tuxedo and red tie, in comparison to his usual casual blacks. His idea of formal wear? A moot is a formal Sept event, after all.

As he steps inside, his stride turns into a slow walk as he takes in the room, clocking Piper, he gives her a nod, before he steps to one side against the wall to glance to the three at the statue, examining the rite with curiosity.

<Foebiter> Foebiter sidles up to Petal, to be at hand if she has questions. Is he her mentor, guiding her through the protocols of wolfing? He'd probably like to *imagine* so... Possibly he's just being an overbearing worrywart.

<Ashlynn> Ashlynn pushes off the wall, standing to her full height, then stopping to stare at Nova in surprise before her lips pull back from her teeth in a silent snarl, eyes narrowing and tensing.

<Niall> Walking arm in arm with Ariana, comes Niall. As they enter the heart, there's a pause. But then they head on in, finding a comfortable place to be.

<Griffin> The opening of the Moot is a somber reminder of the status of the Sept. So many positions sit empty... even the Ritemistress Morena Moon looks on with her usual expression. Nearly a year since she took up the position to train a replacement, and yet... Sept Alpha Peacekeeper, Gatekeeper Only-Ghosts-Behind-Him, and Truthcatcher Storms-at-Dusk perform the rite, and it is the latter who officially starts the ceremony with the Opening Howl, in his form of birth. He's not a Galliard, so the howl lacks the flavor and spice once infused into the song that the late Sings-Her-Heart, now known as Vengeance-of-the-Slain, once put into it. But if anything, a lupus knows the importance of the howl. And all are encouraged to join in when the spirit moves them; certainly Concrete Coyote can see that the reverberating sound in the tunnels doesn't reach the surface. It's a gentle reminder as to the nature of this caern. Stealth. Urban. And though there isn't much distance that truly separates the dozens of Garou that call this caern their home, from the millions living above them in their steel-glass hives, it's enough to know that deep in the Heart of the Caern, there is safety. "Now, offer your Gnosis to the caern!"

This time, the Ragabash known as Alicia dons the guise of The Fool. With an aloof air, it doesn't seem that Alicia pays much attention during the opening howl. Stuffy old tradition, met with such as she performs the False Litany. Along with other random comments about this and that as recent issues are brought up. As the pageantry comes to a close, one issue stands out for her, "I just want to say, I think the teamwork some showed during the recent battles is a good thing. We are soon fighting the nexus crawler, which can be unpredictable. Being chaotic, and having people run off on their own, and being willing to leave people behind, those will come in handy in such a fight." The last remarks of the Fool, she takes her place among the circle. Even that last remark has Dusk caught for words; though he's sharp with the callback of the Litany, he doesn't have a good retort for that last remark. There's a strong truth in that falsehood.

Caller of the Wyld Ghostwalker then takes the center. The Inner Sky, bringing forth the spirit of Concrete Coyote first. Many offerings are placed before the giant metal statue, all the various tributes the many Garou of the Smiling Angel provide. Among them, a string of keys, badges, and identification cards, all emblazoned with the logo of Sunbeam Wireless. Mementos of the prey. Someone even managed to get ahold of Sunbeam CEO George Armstrong's spectacles, long-since depleted of their spiritual power.

The other various avatars of the spirits that have been brought to the caern arrive in the wake of the Sept's totem. Among them, the avatars of Unicorn and Coyote (the actual), taking up positions near Peacekeeper and Ghostwalker respectively, as well as Pigeon swooping across the caern to take up a perch near Dante Zimmer... Perhaps more totemic avatars will arrive in the future, to grace themselves with other up and coming packs of the Sept. But for now, all pale in comparison to...

The Heart of the Caern will be quite for what feels like an eternity in the aftermath of those preternatural swirling winds... And then all of those present will feel a strange sensation in the back of their minds. A hair-rising awareness of Something More. A faint, and sometimes tenuous connection that binds every wolf here that has sincerely taken it upon themselves to guard this holy site of Gaia. It might not be remotely as intimate as the experienced of a shared pack totem... But it is very real. Especially at moments like this. There will be a dribble of dust from the roof of the cavern, and then a rumbling in the earth beneath your feet (or paws!). And then there will be seen two very bright eyes flashing golden yellow as if reflected in the headlights of a passing vehicle. It is hard to describe Concrete Coyote in purely animalistic terms. He's /not/ just a Coyote spirit... This is not a mischievous trickster spirit. This is a pragmatic survivor. Los Angeles is a hard city. His fur has the hue of gravel, and one could almost imagine the hint of a yellow streak through it, not unlike the painted dividing line on a road. When he's angry he can look like a frightening, savage sentient roadkill. But he's not angry now. He's quick and cautious; a scavenger and an opportunist, but not a coward. Cowards die in this town. His eyes glow like headbeams when he looks directly at you. He's here, and he's watching. And somehow even now, here beneath the earth, there's a lingering sensation of the wind on your face, as if driving down Wilshire Boulevard at midnight.

<Foebiter> Foebiter gouges his claws in to his palm, his blood boiling out of his skin and sublimating in offering.

<Valentino> Before everything kicks off, Valentino arrives to the Caern Heart and enters with reverence for the location and the totem. He has changed into something more traditional, at least for him. Val wears buckskin pants and a bone shirt with bare feet so he can feel the bare earth under them. His long silky black hair is braided loosely as he does sometimes, two eagle feathers woven into it. He carries the doeskin bag he always seems to have. Next to him, on his arm even, is Naomi. They walk in a manner that says he is being gentlemanly and respectful. He guides the Shadowlord Kin over to Nathan and gives them both a small nod before stepping away so he can focus on the events. He begins to guide his spiritual energies into the Caern Heart helping everybody fuel it and keep the Caern alive.

<Bronwyn> Bronwyn enters the heart of the caern quietly. She slips off to the side and goes to find a group of kinfolk she knows to stand with to observe.

<Edge> As the howl begins, Edge stands up tall. Their head is thrown back, giving a wheezy cry into the air. And eve nas that's going on, their body shifts upward, growing, gaining fur and mucsle and height and power. The robe slips off when their body gets big and hairy enough, letting it drop to the floor until Edge's black-furred Crinos form is giving that same silent howl to the skies.

<Naomi> Naomi bows her head to Val as she is delivered safely to her cousin and she silently moves a step back from the going ons, to join the other ShadowLoard Ladies

<Xavier> Xavier comes wearing tactical clothing, his eyes narrowed as he quickly moves off to the side keeping to the back away from the Garou for now, though eh ends up finding a spot near the kinfolk, he's near Bronwyn though his arms are crossed and he leans against the wall. A light bruise along the side of his face, annoyance and anger show on his face as well.

<Nova> Dr. Nova takes up a place along the wall near the other Kin, but once things get started she slides her hands into her pockets. She watches the gathering with steady reverance.

<Ghostwalker> Addison is dressed with in a mix of modern clothing with traditional accouterments. A ocean blue button down shirt was covered with an oak brown vest and paired with matching slacks. Underneath his glasses he's painted his face. From the waterline of his eyes worked up into his hairline is sleek black hair was dark blue-black grease paint. Over that with chalky lines was painted the suggestion of a skull. Over his shoulders is thrown a cloak with geometric patterns ranging from blues, to greens, to turquoise and accented with dots of red. On his hip is an object indicating the present office, a great twisting conch shell large enough to serve a Crinos as a horn, hangs on hips until it is in use. When the time comes, he rises out of Breed form into Crinos. Still wearing his cloak, there is the same skeletal warpaint worked into his short redwolf fur...

<Corey> Corey's eyes close when the howl begins. Homid-born as she is, it feels right, at least in this moment, to remain as such. She lifts her chin up and lets out a sound from within her throat. A high-pitched, humming, resonating sort of thing that rings out into the air to join the chorus of those around her. Her cry is a mournful sort of sound, but one that feels right to make in this moment and in this place. As she does, she concentrates on releasing that bit of -something- that she's learned to slip her fingertips around and hold onto. It's strange, really. It feels so much easier to let slip through her fingers than it does to hold onto.

When all is said and done, the young woman shifts her weight from her right hip to her left and leans her shoulder up against Callum's own arm.

<Silas> Silas stands with his hand resting over the gleaming handle of a new cane. He has come a long way in the short span of a week. On his feet. Perhaps still somewhat sedated amidst the crowd, but far more present than he was at the last Tuesday gathering. His suit has been taken in enough to account for lost weight. As the howl begins, he closes his eyes and lifts his own voice to join the others. And lifting his head high, he offers his share of gnosis.

<Valentine> Valentine keeps his attention on the the group at the statue, or seemingly near it at least. Occasionally letting his eyes flit about the room. Spotting Bronwyn he gives a small wave, subdued in this moment. He listens to each of the howls and stuffs his hands in his pockets. Shrewd eyes slipping over each of the Garou as they lend their voices.

<Brandon> Brandon's late. He misses the Litany, but he makes the Opening. He shivers, when the spirit of the caern passes through him. All this togetherness is a bit too much right now; he shoves his hands in hsi pockets, and goes to stand near Piper and Nathan and with a grumble, not looking at anyone else, except, once, at Smiling Angel.

<Edge> Edge makes a gesture, bringing Savage over. It's a two-step gesture. Hands quickly speed through the gestures to translate for their kin, and whatever Valentine doesn't quite get from those signs, Savage picks up and whispers to him. Sure, this is a 'trial by fire' for Valentine's translation, but that doesn't mean he has to be *completely* left out in the cold with some of the things being said!

<Alicia> Alicia sits back down after playing her part of the fool. Along with the others she offers some of her spiritual energy to the spirit and the caern to help strengthen it. With that her attention goes to the bone as the next step of the moot is about the begin.

<Ashlynn> Ashlynn stares at Nova a long moment before refocusing on the Moot and the howl, roiling up into her warform to add her broken, raspy voice to the others.

<Piper> Piper's constantly shifting feet finally come to a rest as she finds a spot near Nathan and Brandon, giving the Shadow Lord a nod and her tribemate a friendly nudge of her elbow. But that's before the howl begins and as the show is officially underway, her eyes are fully on the proceedings. Howling along (homid throat not the best for howling, but she gives it a shot anyways), and focused on giving her own small token of gnosis when offerings required.

<Jingqi> Jingqi moves to find a space and goes through a short, personal ritual, sacrificing some item to Concrete Coyote, going prostrate and bowing deeply, forehead touched to the ground in front of his knees, and then he stands and steps back, silently paying attention to the Sept's leaders again.

<Valentino> Once he has delivered some of his energy into the Caern, Val-O speaks a few words in Navajo, ending just in time to join in the howl. He remains in his homid form just now, but tilts his head back and releases a fair howl. He's no Galliard. As it ends, the Theurge listens, his eyes on Dusk while he begins the cracking of the bone. He remains standing in silent reverence for now.

<Niall> Offering up his own essence to Coyote, Niall also shift to warform to add his own voice to the howl. Once it's time for the cracking, he shifts back down to homid form, going quiet, but standing proudly.

<Xavier> Watching from where he is, hearing the howls after those garou transformed into their Crinos form, it never stops to amaze him at the sight of this form. He places his hands in his own pockets and continues to watch.

<Nathan> As the ceremony continues and Gnosis is called for, Nathan takes a breath as he raises his hands to offer up his own Gnosis. As Naomi steps in, Nathan glances to her and gestures her over to him, Brandon and Piper. Then, he steps forward with his own offering: A tooth from the corpse of the fomor from the Tower B battle.

<Callum> While it might not be his first moot, it's his first moot in Los Angeles and so he's paying close attention as he and Corey make a subdued entrance. At least, Callum is subdued. Everything gets started and he stands quietly, looking about at the people and the place. When Corey leans in, he remains still and keeps her upright. A solid rock of support. How nice.

<Gabe> Blends-with-Shadows adds his voice to the howl

<Thundergrowl> Thundergrowl doesn't bother to shift back once they have howled. After all, when does one get hte chance t ostand tall in tei Crinos form among others, when they're *not* having to fight things? They may not be metis, but there's still a spiritual and physical power, both, within that form, and at times like this it just feels good to be able to.... *be*.

<Naomi> Naomi looks about and when offerings are asked for, she has nothing, but when Nathan offers a tooth she has an idea.. and from her pocket .. a little orgami turtle she places next to his tooth "thank you cousin." she says to Nathan

<Valentine> Valentine is standing next to the Crino's formed Edge (Thundergrowl) hands in his pockets, just waiting for his moment to do his duty for his mate.

<Evelyn> Evelyn looks around as many she's never seen out of their Homid forms shift up to Crinos to join the howl. A soft look of awe on her face, and the expected shiver as the haunting melody of their song rises in the cavern.

<Nova> Doc Nova pulls out of her left pocket a pair of black metal frames. Once things get going she slides them on and watches the offerings being given.

<Ariana> Ariana just extends one hand toward the center. There's a frown of concentration on her brow. She bows her head as the howling washes over her and then looks up again, though she keeps her eyes downcast.

<Everlee> E'vee is very new to the Sept. The howls travel, however, so they've lead her this this vast cavern. "whoa," she whispers as she walks in and spends a long minute or three just spinning around, trying to see everything at once and failing. Instead, she shuffles off to one side of vast gathering to tuck in out of the way. A little wide-eyed, she stares out across the cavern, soaking it all up. All the howling sets a shiver racing down her spine. It's so freakin' cool!

<Bronwyn> Bronwyn did see the small greeting from Valentine and she offers him a small smile and a dip of her head but at the sound of howls fill the room she closes her eyes and tilts her head up to listen, a sweet smile on her lips.

<Valentine> Valentine would go greet his sister, but...he's a bit preoccupied with being the mouth piece to Thundergrowl. But he does notice their arrival and they get a brief but enthusiastic wave.

<Gabe> Gabe stays in Crinos and sits back down after the howl

<Ghostwalker> Ghostwalker presides with great pride over the offerings for Concrete Coyote being placed at the feet of the Smiling Angel Statue. War trophies and precious gifts are laid before the Incarna. Even kinfolk crafters lay down effigy carvings and cooks bring a small feast worth of snacks down to 'feed' to the great spirit. Some Glasswalkers offer Money or strange ambitious new technologies or discs of self-made recordings. Most Ahroun's offer a shred of a kill that they have made over the past season. There's some competition amongst Concrete Coyote's folk for bigger, better, and more pleasing offerings, hoping both to gain the favor of the great spirit with treasures and also show their worth to other members of the Sept by being able to have acquire those offerings.

<Cedar> Cedar takes a deep, almost intoxicating breath as the howls fill the air. A smile spreads across his face as the pride and fury of a true Moot begins to soak into the Empathic Kin.

<Xavier> Casting a glance around, he sees whats going on and Xavier closes his eyes as he takes in the feeling of his people around him. Seeing some familiar faces, but seeing more new ones or just people he's not met yet. He relaxes a little bit, he closes his eyes as he takes this all in.

<Nathan> "No problem." Nathan quietly tells Naomi, before he heads back over to Brandon and Piper, "Roller-Coaster, this is Naomi, my cousin and one of the better spies in my network." Nathan offers in introduction to Brandon, "Naomi, This is Roller-Coaster, known as Brandon to humans."

<Niall> Looking around, Niall offers little bows of his head to those he knows. He keeps his attention on the elders mostly.

<Callum> After having made his offering to the caern, Callum takes some time to look around at the gathered Garou, unfamiliar with...all of them? He's new enough not to have made the rounds quite yet. He doesn't stare, he just keeps his head on a swivel, glancing about and like some of the other newcomers, also making time to look around heart of the caern itself as things are soon to get started.

<Falling-Petals> Falling-Petals is here and still in her strong crinos form. She seems pleased to be at the moot, but her pleased Crinos face is still a bit grr-rawr.

<Liam> Liam is dressed in his ritual robes, the midnight blue hue worn down through the ages but those silvery threads that make stars and constellations across the galaxy of cloth. He bears the scars of battles past on his torso with a measure of quiet pride. During the opening howl he lifts his voice with the others. When it comes time to sacrifice to Concrete Coyote, he bleeds for his beloved Sept Totem.

When the Fool dances around speaking of chaos in battle there's a snarl from the Alpha as he contests this with uneven battles won because of the pack-like nature of the warriors who fought them. He seems particularly snarly about this.

When handed the bone, it takes the man a long time of looking at it before he looks up with ocean blue eyes to look over the faces of the Sept slowly. By the time he finally speaks, the eerie quiet is only accompanied by an even more weighted air. "One year ago, this Sept was about to face one of the deadliest attacks the Enemy has managed to mount against us. We lost friends, siblings, dignity, and maybe we lost sight of The Goal, my dudes," he takes a moment to look at some of the faces still left, those that fought beside him. "We've witnessed loss and growth since then. Trials and Challenges have shaped the Garou that remained, you've each become more, and I hope to hear more growth tonight. Those of you who have recently arrived. Welcome to the Grindstone. We are the Sept of the Smiling Angel, we are the children of Concrete Coyote, we face enemies on all sides, we have few allies, and yet we fight. Because we are Gaia's warriors! We are the last line between this beautiful city and the corruption that threatens it. Every tooth and claw will be sharp, every eye and ear alert. Gather your strength, the Great Hunt is upon us, and then we carve our legacies into this City." With that, the man throws his head back and calls to the Sept with a challenge of a howl, daring them to join him in warning the darkness that they are coming. After he has howled his lungs out, he does give the bone back to the Truthcatcher to continue the ritual.

<Naomi> Naomi smiles to Brandon, then she gives a little incline of her head as she is introduced "hello" she says quietly before she murmers to Nathan softly, she listens and moves to stand just behind him.

<Brandon> Brandon cocks a slanted grin at Naomi as he's introduced: he puts his arms out fonzey-style, in answer to Nathan's introduction, but whatever cheesy line he was about to sling off gets interrupted by the quiet when Liam picks up the bone. He _behaves_, and listens. When Liam howls, he slaps his fonzie-extended hands together hard above his head, over and over, and yells "Whoooooo!"

<Storms-at-Dusk> Joining the alpha in the howl in his crinos form, Dusk then takes the bone back, turning to the old warrior standing off to the side.

<Only-Ghosts> The weathered man with iron-gray hair does his part in the Moot Rite, and then steps back. Though he has an air of stern wisdom, it's a faint smile that comes across his face as he steps back. Normally, one to fade into the background when it came to serious matters of the sept, tonight he picks up a large bowl, in which is a feathered bone knife. After Liam's said his piece, the bone is then offered to the aged and scarred Chumash warrior by the young Truthcatcher: Only-Ghosts-Behind-Him. His words from the last meeting are true: The Great Hunt is upon the Sept of the Smiling Angel. He keeps his words brief, explaining the ritual for those who may not have experienced it yet. After the business of the sept is concluded, and the bone is cracked, it is time for the Songs and Stories. During which, such words will accompany the bloodletting, offering a sliced palm to the large bowl. And once mixed, the mingled blood will mark the warriors who will Hunt. Though it may be a few days before Gaia responds with her answer ((OOC convenience)), one dawn, the Sept will know the face of their Enemy. "To which I say..." he concludes, looking back over the crowd. This veteran has seen this ritual dozens of times. Both lived it, and welcomed the hunters home. Though there is hope in his eyes, one can perceive the faint bit of sadness. Wondering, if this time he looks upon each and every face present, will be the last time he sees them. "Fight with Honor." And then, a smile, passing Storms-at-Dusk the bone back.

<Clint> Clint puts the tips of two fingers in his mouth and lets out a loud shrill whistle when Liam howls.

<Corey> Corey remains with her weight leaned on Callum's arm. It's a familiar sort of closeness shared between the two Garou, both who seem to have chosen to remain in their homid forms. At least for the opening howls. Corey keeps her eyes on Liam as the man speaks, and takes a moment to look out towards those new and unfamiliar faces that have either just joined, or that she hasn't had the privilege to yet meet. But, for the most part, Corey keeps her attention facing forward for the ceremony being conducted. And, of course, she's fairly quiet in the crowd. Unless it's time to howl. She'll make some noise for that. Awoo awoo.

<Storms-at-Dusk> Taking the bone back, the black-furred crinos then scans the room. A glance to Morena, wondering if she'll want to say something. But, as all he gets is her typical look in response, he'll start to recall the rank and order of all present. As it stands, Ghostwalker would be the next in line, as Dusk makes his way over to offer the bone.

<Evelyn> Evelyn keeps her attention on those leading the Moot for the most part, at least until Gabe sits back down still in crinos. There's a chuckle soft enough that it just moves her shoulders, and she reaches out to rest a hand against his back and lightly scritch his shoulder.

<Thundergrowl> Thundergrowl's expression looks slightly pained at the discussion about the songs and stories, though the lupine face manages to hold most other emotion from it. No teeth are bared, at least. Just a momentary silent wince. They just watch the passage of the bone through the crowd.

<Falling-Petals> "Arrwooo." Petal howls when Liam does. She stops her howls to listen to Only-Ghosts and then she turns to Ghostwalker awaiting what he will say. She peeks over to Foebiter as if to silently ask "I am mooting right?"

<Piper> Homid mouths aren't great for howling but they are perfect for loud ass whistles, which Piper shows off with the others joining in after Liam's howl. As for the Gatekeeper's more somber words of the Great Hunt to come, dangers and glory combined, she watches somberly but a definite itching there, young galliard bouncing on her feet by the end, head nodding. She's ready!

<Foebiter> Foebiter gives Falling-Petals a discreet thumbs up and a reassuring nod.

<Alicia> Alicia joins in the howling with the others. When that is over she settles back down and finds a comfortable spot, as she looks around to see what other people are going to speak and what challenges might come this evening.

<Valentino> Valentino stands with a certain amound of pride when his Tribemate speaks, paying Only-Ghosts-Behind-Him close attention and much respect. He listens attentively to what the old warrior has to say. The Uktena places his attention again on Dusk when he gets the bone back, but it is the ritual that he is studying now as it unfolds before their eyes.

<Niall> Again, at the howl, Niall shifts to crinos form to answer the Alpha's howl, putting everything he's got into it, before shifting back down to human form. He listens to the roll, looking to each person as their name is called.

<Ghostwalker> With the bone passed to Ghostwalker's claws he takes a step forward and rises up to his full height. The Uktena has Redwolf in his blood, manifesting in the Ragabash as a Crinos form much more slender than the robust figures of those other Tribes descended from other Wolfstock. Standing alongside the ranks of many mighty Ahroun, the New Moon looks respectively fragile with his willowy claws. The lanky Crinos's posture rises, and straightens. He is Adren now, and the Rise in Rank manifests more even now into his Half-Beast shape. With Bone-In-Claw Ghostwalker steps forward to speak...

<Billy> Billy is there, amongst the crowd. He's not new here, but he is one of the quiet ones. One of the guardians. Content to watch and listen and complete his tasks as assigned. He's earned himself some glory in his years, but has so far at least seemed content to play background actor to those that are more inclined to play the leads.

<Dante Zimmer> Towards the back of the Heart, stands a man about six feet tall. Wireframe glasses sit in front of soft brown eyes. To either side of him, is a thin-built younger woman and a larger man. Unknown faces in the crowd of many Garou who keep to the background. But the bespectacled man himself has been gaining more and more acquaintances in the recent days. And when Pigeon arrives to perch near him, his identity is confirmed. The City Farmer known as Dante Zimmer. Those familiar with the San Julian Park and many rooftop garden projects of Skid Row have likely seen him. Or heard him. He certainly will talk *at length* about the sustainability projects. The only thing to quiet him is the presence of new blood in the city, to which his insatiable curiosity will prompt many uncomfortable (but innocent!) questions about family lines.

Or, in this case, not having the talking bone. Maintaining the decorum and respect for the occasion. However, his interest is greatly piqued when Ghostwalker steps forward, ready to announce something.

<Bronwyn> Bronwyn is just listening, looking around the room at all those gathered, gaze pausing here and there now and then. She stays close to Xavier though.

<Nova> Dr. Nova has her gaze uplifted and watching Ghostwalker now. There's a sense of anticipation in her body language, yet she's still leaning against that back wall with avid interest.

<Everlee> E'vee's gaze swings wildly around the cavern as various Garou speak out. She goes a little googly-eyed when Only-Ghosts-Behind-Him speaks. Dude! Old wolf! Totally awesome! Tugging knees up against herself, she hugs those bent legs to herself, resting her chin on her knee. Who needs Rock concerts in the park when you can watch a moot? Eventually that gaze drifts off, studying the others who make up this new place she'll call home.

<Gabe> Blends-With-Shadows leans back against the wall, tongue lulling out to the side as he listens.

<Niall> Niall stands with Ariana. He's watching the musings of the cracking. Paying close attention for something.

<Valentine> Valentine sweeps the area between the important words. Eyes scanning Everlee to see how she is getting on, then falling on Bronwyn for a moment before continuing on to the others.

<Lucky> Lucky moves. He unlaces his arms, placing his hands on his knees, and pushes, rising laboriously. Upright, he places his hands on his hips, leaning back, filling the quiet with the popping of his joints. 'Cracking of the Bone' means something different for garou over 40.

<Thundergrowl> Thundergrowl is fortunately in Crinos. Their face at that is inscrutable, hands settling behind their back. If they happen to be gripping those armbands (even in Crinos they're still there, yep) and giving them a tight squeeze and massage, that's puer chance. Really. *Not* a nevous or annoyed tic. Why would you say that?

<Ghostwalker> From behind a mask of grease-paint and chalk-white that paints a human skull over animal fur, as if to illustrate his Homid birth with a subtle visual language. He gives his introduction. Even for those who knew him, this was considered a formality. At least in some places. "I am Ghostwalker. New Moon of the Black Coil Pack. Uktena following the path of the Scouts. Recognized Adren of this Sept. Trained by Kanti Mother-Sky and Two-Bows-One-Arrow of Sept of the Roadrunner."

He pauses then cites his ancestral Lineage. He glances around the room. To some it would have been too much. To others it would no doubt be, too little. "My blood is traced through Whispers-to-the-Wind, to Balanced-Sea, to Banes-in-Bullets, to Smoke-and-Thunder, to Sandrunner, to Blooddancer, and to Dark-and-Distant-Waters. From Many Different Fires, from many peoples, I come and I stand before you."

"I stand before the Sept of the Smiling Angel and its Alpha to Challenge for the position of Keeper of the Land, to carry its mantle from Brother of my Tribe Smoke-on-the-Water-Yuf." Ghostwalker does not say so with as much boldness, perhaps suggesting trouble over his Tribemate's sudden disappearance and vacancy. He turns to Liam and bows his head. "Peacekeeper-Rhya. When I came to this Sept over a Year ago, when I Danced the Fool and I challenged for Caller of the Wyld, it was said that Ancestry can only stand for so much. That we most also have our own Deeds in this life. I now come to you with both. My people, my Tribe, we are the stewards of this land and the relationship we have with it is enduring, continues to endure, no matter who comes to build a city over it. I have served you and I have Concrete Coyote," he looks up from the Sept Alpha to the mysterious Totem, "as His Caller of the Wyld. I would be so Honored to continue to serve Him, you, and the Spirits as Keeper of the Land."

<Liam> Liam watches the bone be passed around, the challenges spoken aloud and vied for. That Addison addresses him directly, he pauses long enough to match eyes with the Ragabash for a long moment. Finally he smiles and nods, "Sounds good, man," clearly approving of this step in the younger wolf's path. Then he is quiet again, following the protocol of the Ritual.

<Storms-at-Dusk> Taking back the bone from Addison after he's spoken fully, he hands it to Jingqi next, owing to some mystical understanding of seniority.

<Jingqi> When Jingqi receives the bone he steps forward, addressing the leaders of the sept but pitching his voice loud enough to be heard by all, "Elder Wu has instructed me to improve relations between the sept and Wu Sun. I am Changying, homid Ahroun of the Glass Walkers, born in Hong Kong. When I arrived in this city I did not yet even speak English." Indeed, his English is still heavily accented with his native Cantonese, "In accordance with Elder Wu's instruction I believe this is the best way I can be of service to the sept: I stand for the position of Wyrm Foe." With that short speech presented, he faces the angel and bows a full ninety degrees, giving the deepest respect and doesn't straighten until he has backstepped once. Then he returns the bone to Storms-at-Dusk and quietly retakes his previous position.

<Corey> Corey turns to look up at Callum when Jingqi speaks. She gives her pack-mate a nudge of her elbow, as if daring him to pipe up. She's got a toothy little grin as well. She settles back up against him and turns to look at the Wormfoe challenges beginning. There were rumors swirling, of course, that this would be a hotly contested position.

In other words, fun to watch.

<Brandon> Brandon's attention had started to wander, but it meanders back when Jingqi takes the bone, and then snaps to when he mentions being instructed by Elder Wu. He's completely fixed; even when Jingqi is done, he doesn't move for a few seconds, before, obligatorily, he shouts a supportive whooo, claps twice, and points at Jingqi, evincing his support for the fellow Glass Walker.

<Bronwyn> Bronwyn rocks on her heels a bit, comfortable just rarely able to ever stay still. She sees the look from Valentine and she studies him right back. She offers him a reassuring smile.

<Callum> Ah, some challenges! Now Callum seems more interested. He'd been lost in looking about, Garou-watching and such until Corey nudges him and gives him that look. He merely frowns slightly at her and gives a shake of his head. "Stop." he murmurs softly enough not to be easily heard, leaning a little closer to do so. Then he's looking toward Jingqi as he announces his intentions.

<Piper> Piper is curious enough as the bone passes to one of the Wu Wolves, but as Jiangqi puts in his bid for Wyrmfoe she gives an approving nod, though can't help but grin at Brandon's much more enthusiastic encouragement for their fellow Glasswalker.

<Corey> Corey gives an 'ope' face, which involves a bit of widening eyes and thinning lips. It's not really an admission of guilt -- too playful for that -- but it's not really a 'yikers' either. Maybe a bit more of an 'oopsie' or a 'woopsiedoodle', but, perhaps most telling of all, the expression is delivered without an apology.

<Nathan> As Brandon shouts, Nathan looks that way with a small smirk, before he glances back to the one with the Bone.

<Xavier> Xavier is keeping quiet as he watches what's going on, he will need to speak with Edge for a moment before heading out, though he looks around at the other kin around him. He yawns a little but he keeps the yawn quiet, he was tired but he didn't want to miss this at all.

<Storms-at-Dusk> Receiving the bone back from Jingqi, Dusk glances around those gathered once more. And then, stops. Turning around now, to face the front. "When I came to this Sept, I found many voids from the Siege of our Caern. One of them was the absence of a Truthcatcher." Looking towards Liam, the Crinos' expression is one of positivity. "Given the chance, I was allowed to learn and grow in this role... far faster than I expected. Or liked." The expression darkens for a moment. Many would know of the tales lingering. Catherine, Vivian, Edge... Turning to face the others, "But with it, I have earned not only Honor from the spirits, but Respect from the Sept. In recent days, the calls for my name have not been for me as a Truthcatcher."

Taking a pause, and addressing some of the possible confusion, "I have been called to mediate in disputes and challenges that would not require the presence of a Truthcatcher. But rather, the advice and guidance of a Philodox. To settle arguments. To oversee Cliaths become Fosterns. It brings me joy, that my honor is sought." A pause for dramatic flair, but also to catch his breath, looking over to the crowd with a sad smile. "Which is why I, Storms-at-Dusk, Philodox of Unicorn, renounce the position of Truthcatcher." Another pause, as he turns to face Liam, eyes alight with determination. "To become Master of Challenges, of Smiling Angel."

It looks as if Dusk is ready to pass the bone to the next in line, but he grips it even tighter. One final breath, locking eyes with Liam. "And I will do so, as Adren." It needs not be said, the simple words of the lupus-born carry the meaning all the same. Dusk challenges for rank, from no less than the Sept Alpha.

<Valentine> When Storms speak, Valentines attention is laser focused on him. He shifts and the hands in his pockets come out and are placed behind his back, giving a small stretch. Then he looks away again.

<Silas> The full measure of Silas' attention settles on Ghostwalker as headdresses the Sept and challenges for Keeper of the Land. He smiles with a glow of pride in his alpha. Silas' head turns with much interest as Jingqi steps forward to make a challenge. Both a fellow Glasswalker - and one he from the same distant lands as himself, though few might guess it. He nods with silent approval of his own.

When Storms-at-Dusk retakes the bone, Silas grows still. He watches. Scarcely breathing. Full attention on the Truthcatcher as he renounces his position and seeks another. And further challenges for rank. The homid Glasswalker inclines his head with the greatest respect.

<Thundergrowl> Thundergrowl's brows go up at the final part. The first bit wasn't a *huge* surprise, and was taken with just a little frown at the mention of giving up Truthcatcher. But then their face falls into something more surprised and ... impressed? ... as Storms-At-Dusk makes that challenge directly to Liam. A snort and impressed rumbling sound are heard. Now and again, eyes briefly dart Addison's way as well, the Crinos' ears attempting not to display their annoyance, and yet still they wait for the presence of the bone.

<Billy> Billy looks around a bit, his normally squinted eyes opened by resignation slash lateral transfer. He's not holding the bone and likely wouldn't have much to say on the matter if he was, but it seems the sept's orginzational charts will need some editing.

<Clint> Clint tucks his thumbs into his rope belt and stands there quietly. One brow arches up at Jingqi's challenge and he shakes his head with a soft "Order. Not choice." When Ghostwalker gets the bone and declares a challenge, the large man remains silent but turns his back until Dusk has the bone and he nods in approval.

<Foebiter> Foebiter side-eye.

<Niall> There's a look of approval from Niall, a smile to Storms-at-Dusk. He continues to listen, paying attention. He looks around to see everyone else's reactions.

<Liam> Liam is vibing at this point, someone might accuse him of being high, but there's not a whiff of weed on him right now. He's just positively vibrating with glee as the bone is passed around right now. The challenges coming forth mean one thing for the Sept: progress. The calls to Wyrmfoe, Keeper of the Land, and now Master of Challenge. Then another Adren? The man's eyes actually get a little wet at the corners, he keeps it together as he stares back at his Truth- Master of Challenge and simply nods. He accepts the challenge, and will present it when the time is appropriate.

<Brandon> Brandon supports Ghostwalker's challenge completely, nodding along, and is openly suprised by, and then approving of, Storms-at-Dusk's audacity. The chutzpah! He opens his mouth wide, covers it with a hand, and then pumps his free arm.

<Alicia> Alicia looks around and listens to each of the people who are stepping forward to make their challenges for the different positions within the sept. It seems many of them are getting filled.

<Ashlynn> Ashlynn remains silent for Addison and Jingqi's Challenges, then nods towards Dusk when he makes call for Rank and Title both, a smile threatening the edges of the stoic Fury's mouth.

<Storms-at-Dusk> With his two challenges put forth, Dusk only waits for a response from Liam, then turning back to the crowd. A stern glance is given to Clint for the moment. The traditionalist, no matter his personal feelings, observes the formalities with a seriousness that befits the station, and conveys as much in the wolfish expressions of his Crinos form. For the moment, he passes the metis by, now offering the bone to Ashlynn, with her look of determination.

<Piper> Piper is utterly fascinated by the challenges flying about, but as Dusk not only renounces a position, but goes for Master of Challenge and lays out his own challenge for Adren too? Her mouth probably couldn't grin any further.

<Gabe> Gabe is quiet as he watches everything, but the Crinosed Ragabash cocks his head as the challenges are announced

<Falling-Petals> Petal has young Ahroun hyper energy as she watches and listens to the moot. She seems to be well interested in the challenges, howling after each one is announced as if supporting them all. She doen't even know the challengers though.

<Ashlynn> Taking the offered bone, Ashlynn turns the familiar item over in her hands, expression meandering through different things before she nods to Storms-at-Dusk in thanks. Thoughtful, she moves forward, the bone held in her left hand, the crinos pelt marked with her lineage and the moon-dappled cape of her Fate, the matte white markings of her battlescars. "I am Ashlynn Demetrio, rited Cracks-The-Skull. A Fostern Ahroun of the Black Furies, mated to Ares Laskaris, both of us hailing from Western Eye, though I arrived over a year ago."

"In that year, I have grown to know the Sept my Great-Aunt, Athena Beauregard came down from Western Eye to fight for. My blood mixed with many during last year's Great Hunt, during the Siege, the bane hunts and the clean up. I have stood face to face between a Nexus Crawler and some of the strongest this Sept has. My own strength has grown with every fight, tempered with Honor and Wisdom and the scars of my Glory."

"I Challenge for Wyrmfoe, to continue to fight for the Sept and with it."

<Storms-at-Dusk> When the bone is handed back, the Truthcather-turned-Master nods his affirmation. "Already, two strong warriors make such a claim. Our sept will be well-served by such a challenge." Offering her a grin, he then moves down the line... In front of the one once known as Bites-the-Hand. Now, Foebiter. Who is handed the bone.

<Foebiter> Foebiter is dressed to kill - or, well, no, these are his good clothes, he doesn't want to get blood on them. He's dressed to impress. Clean khakis chinos, a canary yellow t-shirt of stretch fabric, and some jordans that he surely stole. His chaotic mess of hair is tied back with a twist tie, and Vivian Vengeance-of-the-Slain McNamara's fingerless gloves are stretched over his fists. A legacy he intends to be worthy to inherit.

Foebiter accepts the Bone. With a deep breath to steady his nerves, he presents himself to the Sept Alpha, showing throat (deference, submission) but also teeth (conviction, confidence). "Peacekeeper-Rhya, I, Foebiter, survivor of Black Coil, inheritor of Vengeance-of-the-Slain, challenge for the position of Master of the Howl," he declares. "I, who sang the wolf-song before the First Change took me - I am ready to sing the glory of Smiling Angel. I will howl our triumphs, and our sorrows! I am Bone Gnawer; I am well fit to join Smiling Angel tight to the Barking Chain. Peacekeeper-Rhya, I shall accept what ordeal you see fit for this challenge, with a glad, proud heart."

<Foebiter> Foebiter passes the bone back to Dusk. Short, sweet, straight to the meat.

<Brandon> Brandon nods sharply at Ashlynn, several times, and watches her for a while, brows furrowed. His support is not as overt as with his tribesmate: it's less performative, more personal. His attention whips over to Foebiter now, and he is already grinning, immediately ready to support whatever it is his lupine bro-in-arms/paws is challenging for. "Awooooo!" he ululates, very quietly, so as not to get in trouble, but perhaps not as quietly as he should, because he is excited.

<Everlee> It's hard to sit still with so much happening, which is why Everlee hugs her legs to herself; it keeps the red-head on lock down. At least for the moment. One challenge and then another and still more. Crazy awesome!

<Valentine> It could be worst at least Foebiter is a Gnawer. Still Valentine reaches out a hand to sooth Edge, along the the lower spine.

<Silas> Silas listens in silence, somewhat impassive as Ashlynn presents her challenge and makes her case. He casts his gaze across the Caern Heart, taking in other reactions. But when the bone reaches Foebiter, his attention sharpens. His packmate's words draw forth a smile. Though silent, his quiet pride is clear.

<Thundergrowl> Thundergrowl looks down at Valentine at that, smiling a bit sadly. Yeah, it's a bite. Edge reaches down and gently caresses Valentine's hair, shoulder, back, just petting him to disperse the energy a bit. Those armbands get another press, albeit with considerably less ferocity than the earlier announcements.

<Cedar> A smile begins to tug at the edge of Cedar's lips as Foebiter announces his challenge, a brief fire flashing in his eyes as Vivian's name is invoked. He takes a deep, baited breath as he looks to Liam to see how he responds to the flurry of challenges.

<Piper> Piper's head nods as the Fury lays out her resume for her challenge. Impressive. And then Foebiter's up as well and she smiles at the lupus challenges for the right to Howl... only appropriate!

<Ghostwalker> Ghostwalker has since stepped out of the limelight to watch the procession of Challenges that follow after him. It's difficult to tell what the Crinos thinks at all the ones that follow up. The look on his muzzle is fairly austere. There is a glimmer of light in his dark, nearly black, eyes. But is that Pride or is that the firelight?

<Liam> Liam is a tried and tested Sept Alpha it seems, his eyes are able to bounce to Ashlynn as she also steps forward to Challenge for Wyrmfoe, his smile hasn't really waned at this point, and he nods firmly to her statements. There's a moment where he steps in to put a hand on Dusk's shoulders to pause the passing for a moment. Taking this moment to address the challenges set forth. "Those who Challenge for Wyrmfoe, your time is now. We prepare for the Great Hunt, you have this time to find those who would follow you into battle. You have this time to learn their strengths and weaknesses. We'll begin meeting to discuss our strategy, it will firm as you build your war-packs. Myself, the Master of Challenge, the Ritemistress, and the Gatekeeper will discuss the merits we seek from you and you'll be informed so there are no surprises. Foebiter, we know well your lungs, and the position will suit you when you succeed," he is a Proud Dad right now y'all, he's just missing the birkenstocks and socks. But it's getting colder...

<Foebiter> Foebiter bork...

<Storms-at-Dusk> A glance back to Liam as the hand reaches his shoulder. Of course, the lupus is on a mission, and sometimes he forgets the moment that is so important to the homid-borns. He pauses, as Liam then announces the Wyrmfoe's challenge. There's a knowing smile. Had there been some philodoxing in the preamble? Quite possibly. It's clear that he agrees with the challenge.

Receiving the bone back, there's a quiet look from Dusk. This one he already seems to approve of, but, formalities observed. "Our Sept will be blessed to receive your pure voice, Foebiter." And a bit quieter, more in the language of lupines than anything. 'Show them how the wolf-born howls.'

Yet there are many gathered, and the lupus-born will move quietly down the line. No words spoken between candidates. Only a steely gaze from fiery-orange eyes. That catch sight of Silas. His own look of determination to him. Dusk... seems to know. This passing of the bone is slower than the others. And he grips it at the same time Silas does for a lingering moment. And then, a smile. Passing him the right to speak.

<Silas> Silas closes his hand around the bone and meets Dusk's gaze in that lingering moment. He offers a slow nod of appreciation. And much respect. Then shifting his attention, he lets it drift across the Heart of the Caern and all those gathered here. Still slow, but present. "I am Silas Black. Shot-in-the-Dark. Philodox of the Black Coil Pack. Glass Walker associated with the City Farmers. And Fostern of this Sept." Lifting his chin, he steels himself for what he says next. "I challenge for Truthcatcher of the Sept of the Smiling Angel."

"This Sept. Without you, my pack had no chance of bringing me back alive. You knew the risks. And you took them. For me." Silas bows his head low. "For this. You will forever have my devotion. My service." Lifting his gaze and holding his head high once more, he continues. "I've a long road yet. But. I've a level head to offer. And an understanding of both the inherent truths and nuances of the Litany. I will neither flinch nor waver in judging crimes and resolving disputes." With his challenge made, Silas offers the bone up once more.

<Valentine> It might be bias, but Silas gets an approving nod from the kinfolk, not that it matters. Perhaps while caring for the man, Valentine developed a rare soft spot.

<Gabe> Gabe watches the challenges and lets out a little snort of breath from his nostrils that could be a sigh. The crinosed Ragabash crosses his arms over his chest and just watches.

<Thundergrowl> Thundergrowl gives an upnod toward Silas as the man makes that offer, a silent approval at what they're hearing. Hand closes into a fist and gently taps their own chest. Not an ASL sign. Just a gesture of appreciation and solidarity in hearing his announcement.

<Brandon> When his friend and mentor challenges for Truthcatcher, Brandon starts to seriously struggle with the injunction not to talk during the passing of the bone. He makes a little sound, throttled in his throat, and his eyes bug. He fidgets. Finally he claps his big left hand over his eyes, makes a finger-gun with his right, and fires into the air once. The imaginary bullet can scatter across the room, wherever Concrete Coyote sends it. Then he triple-thumbs-ups Silas: a regular double-thumbs-up, then an additional thumbs-up for good luck.

<Ghostwalker> Ghostwalker swings his crinos head to look towards Niall's challenge to Wyrmfoe. His muzzle twitches. Finally the Ragabash is unable to withhold a Coyote grin at the revelation that the Challenge for Wyrmfoe would be a Threeway with a Dakr Horse in the running... And then back to five minutes ago, he's observing Shot-in-the-Dark's dutiful presentation with dignity.

<Xavier> Xavier continues to watch the challenges that are going on. He moves closer to find a better seat and as he does he continues to watch.

<Piper> Piper listens to Niall's challenge and her head tilts as if expecting more and left blinking when the Fianna's challenge is just that.

She nods somberly at Silas' heartfelt words for his recent hardships... the recovery... and now the challenge. Good story there.

<Liam> Liam watches Niall for a long moment and nods in agreement with a small smile of amusement. "We will see how children of Stag wage War, the challenge is set, you already know the stakes," he says. Then comes the Challenge from Silas and he pauses for a moment before looking the wolf in the eyes, "Your test will not be easy, brother," he states without remorse, but still with empathy somehow, "It will either make you, or undo you, I hope you have the fortitude for what comes next," he tells the Walker before nodding, "Your challenge is accepted," it's not like the eldest Philodox is going to let Silas out of the Challenge either.

<Alicia> Alicia tilts her head and looks around as she listens to the challenges and what sort of tasks they might have. She is still a bit new herself and so isn't challenging for anything at the moment so she just listens.

<Storms-at-Dusk> There's a serious look given to Silas as Dusk considers what would be his successor in the role. The temporary Catcher-Master here has to consider it deeply. But whatever his thoughts on it are, he doesn't voice them yet. Instead, "The position of Truthcatcher is unique. It is my dream that this sept will never need a Truthcatcher again." Of course, that dream is as distant as winning the Apocalypse War might be. Still, he grabs the bone with one hand, and pats Silas's shoulder with the other. "When the appropriate time to challenge you comes, we will let you know." And then, Dusk steps away. Finally, finding himself back in front of the hairless metis, Dusk offers him the bone.

<Silas> Silas gazes at Liam with the full measure of his regal bearing, head lifted high. He does not appear to waver nor show any trace of apprehension at whatever his test may be. He simply nods, looking from Liam to Dusk. Hand closed tight over the gleaming handle of his cane. And once the attention shifts, he closes his eyes and just breathes. In and out. Slowly.

<Foebiter> Foebiter gives a brief, silent, encouraging fist-pump to his Tribe-brother.

<Clint> Clint accepts the bone with a deep bow and a soft "Thank." He strips off his clothes. Stop sign shield. Franekenfur coat. Kevlar vest. Boots. Fanny pack. Handmade heavy canvas clothes. Only thing left is his rope belt with large fetish pipe wrench. As he strips, he shifts fluidly from his already huge, homid form to his truly massive crinos form. Eleven feet tall, pink skinned and entirely bare, save for his rope. Not a single hair. There's a jagged scar from his left hip, up across his abdomen and chest to his right shoulder. He walks up to the front to be better seen and looks around those gathered. "Someone translate for the kin please. I'm going to say that I'm not good at speeches." He pauses and clears his throat. "I am Gonna-Eat-That? Fostern, Theurge of the Bone Gnawer Tribe. Bound to Unicorn as part of the Silverhoof pack." He motions towards himself. "Metis. Born as you see before you. Garou, from even before I tore myself free my my mother's belly." Voice cracking and eyes glistening. He clears his throat and continues. "This world is the one that I have always know. I grew up watching garou. Watching. Listening. Learning. Being taught by the spirits. Learning and knowing this world, our world before any others."

He takes in a breath and lets it out slowly before he continues. "When I had my first change I was able to experience the world outside these tunnels for the first time. All the little things were amazing. The feel of the sun on my skin and the way it stung my eyes. The smells and sounds. It was all overwhelming at first. But in time, exploring in Skid Row, I learned of human things." He points towards some of the homid born in the room. "How to nagivate the city and find things that are needed. How to spot trouble and knowing which gangs to be weary of." Then he laughs. "Of humans themselves? Not so much. You are all still confusing at times. But the empathy gained by Unicorn is helping me learn." He pauses to look around the room again. "This is my home. The only one I have ever have. The only one I plan to ever have. You are my family." He makes a wide sweeping gesture to everyone. "I rarely talk about these things. My past. How I feel. I tell you all this because I am trying to be better. Always better than I was. What I am and my past are the hardest things for me. I do not know if I am really ready to find out. But I'm determined to try." He moves from where he was, moving his way through the crown with greeting as he does. Offering to punch fists. Punching shoulders. Pats on the head. Etc. At least he is gentle with the kin. Talking as he goes.

"I am rambling. But I am trying to show that I have epent my entire life preparing for this moment. I have dedicated my time to keep this Sept and the people in it safe. And I have spend the past months working hard, pushing myself to learn and experience new things. Specific ones to help expand my way of thinking. To organize, plan, lead. I have started organizing classes with myself and others. Those who are specialists at a skill, to teach others. So that we are all more prepared in the future." He goes silent as he walks back up to the front and turns to look over the members of the sept. "I am ready for this, I am prepared, and I will continue to push myself to always get better!" His voice raises as he talks and his muscles tense. "I will do everything in my power to protect this sept and those in it! I have saved the lives of many in my time here and plan to save many more!" Louder and louder with every muscles tensed up in his body from his excitement. "I CHALLENGE FOR THE POSITION OF WARDER!!!" The words transition into a howl that he puts his everything into. The sounds echoing around the room until he runs out of breath. The howl trails off, leaving him bent over and catching his breath. Holding the bone out towards Dusk when he does.

<Hawkins> More shuffling in the back and Hawkins slides in to the moot... right on the tail end of Clint's declaration. Huh. Something big and important is happening, alright. The bearded kinfolk contents himself with watching more than listening, since growls and chuffs might be the 'high tongue' to the fuzzy wuzzies, but to him it's mostly just animal noises.

<Thundergrowl> Thundergrowl is happy to sign some ASL for Valentine to translate, with Savage (their other kin-voice) picking up to whisper anything Valentine misses in the explanation. It's pretty obvious this is the poor kin's trial by fire, so to speak, in that Savage isn't doing *most* of the translation. Just when there are some parts that Valentine can't seem to make out in the signs.

<Falling-Petals> Petal howls when Clint is finished speaking, cheering for him it seems in her wolfish way. She thne looks over to Hawkins and her amber wolf eyes peer toward him thoughtfully like she knows him? He might to know her though as she looks like a big multi-colored wolf beast of some sort. She greets him with a grow that might sound hostile, but most other wolves would really isn't truly such, just a feral greeting or an "I know you" sort of moment.

<Logan> Logan slips in after Tess, hanging out with the kinfolk because that's what kinfolk do in the middle of a moot. So many people here....it takes his breath away.

<Brandon> Brandon watches Clint challenge, and his hands go into his pockets. He pouts thoughtfully, and intimates nothing more, instead looking at the fire.

<Valentine> Valentine is notably not with the kinfolk, Valentine is standing stoic like next to the Crinos form of Edge, Thundergrowl. Hands behind his back, bag dangling from it, attentively listening to the proceedings.

<Liam> Liam listens as Clint takes the bone, his packmates emotions telling on him a bit early which makes the Alpha smile a bit more big if that's at all possible. In issuing the challenge, the man nods once, "Your commitment to progress will be tested, brother, I look forward to seeing how you conquer it," he of course looks to the Master of Challenge as well, expecting him to say something of this challenge as well.

<Storms-at-Dusk> "In the coming days, this Sept will strike out on the Great Hunt. It is the duty of any prospective Warder to put their skills to the test." It's no secret the interim Master of Challenges intends to tie most of the Sept's positional challenges as practical examinations. Such is the way of the lupus. And... the way of a sept on the brink of survival. That so many offices need filling, and have roles to perform in the upcoming Great Hunt, it should be no surprise that most will relate to that moment. "Any Warder will need to make sure that they can defend our caern while it is vulnerable, even if they take to the Hunt. Supplies must be prepared. Threats must be checked." A pause, a stern look to Clint, and a glance across the rest of the crowd. "A Warder is not just for this bawn, but for the entire protectorate. This includes those who are not with us, but call this place home."

A glance is given over to the far end of the Heart. Over there, one nerdy-looking male with a collared shirt and neatly-trimmed hair stands. The logo on his pocket clear: The California Institute of Technology. Cal-Tech. Keen eyes might have spotted them offering a drone disguised as a bird to Concrete Coyote earlier.

With the Fosterns handled, Dusk then begins to turn towards the cliaths, eyeing Niall first. With Niall settled, then comes Nathan, the other distinguished outsider of the bunch. Handing him the bone.

<Clint> Gonna-Eat-That? points towards Liam with a claw and nods. Lips pulled back into a huge tooth filled wolfish smile. When the bone is taken back he goes back to his clothes. Shifting back to his homid form, smile still on his face as he pulls his pants on. He grabs up the rest and moves to the back to pulls the rest on while listening to Dusk. He claps his hands together and presses them to his chest over his heart. A silent promise to put his all into it.

<Storms-at-Dusk> The first of the cliaths, Dusk passes the bone to Niall. Clear from Dusk's face, this Fianna has distinguished himself in the short days since he's arrived. A subtle honor awarded.

<Niall> Bowing to Dusk, Niall steps forward, shifting to his warform. Kilt and sword stay with him. He holds himself up regally, "I am Niall Campbell, rited Wrath of Danu, Cliath Ahroun of the Fianna! Son of Oisin 'Herald of Truth' Campbell, Elder Philodox, Truthcatch of the Three Valleys Sept, Grandson of Whelan 'Morning Glory' Campbell, Elder Galliard, Master of the Howl of the Loch's Deep Sept, Great Grandson of Connall 'Howls at the Sun' Campbell, Athro Theurge. Great Great Grandson of Fergus 'Strength of Stag' Campbell, Elder Ahroun. Decended from the line of Campbells back to Elder Ahroun, Darragh 'Stalks the Prey' of Argyll." He looks to Ashlynn and Jingqi and then back to Storms-at-Dusk and Liam. "I come from a long and proud line of warriors. I also stand and challenge for Wyrmfoe!"

<Callum> The challenges come fast and furious and Callum is interested in all of them, looking amongst those stepping forward to take their place within the sept structure. He seems most interested in those challenging for WORMfoe and Warden, which isn't surprising considering his auspice, far more interested in who the more militant of the sept are.

<Billy> Billy looks around him, holding up three fingers on his right hand. His eyebrows are up a bit, impressed perhaps by the thought of three challengers for the same position.

<Storms-at-Dusk> Dusk can't help but grin in his crinos form. That so many fierce warriors were stepping up in this 'race' earns a smile, and he turns his head to catch sight of the Alpha for a moment. Only seeing a victory for the sept at the end of this road. With that, he nods and accepts the bone back. "Show us how the warriors of Stag war."

<Niall> Niall also hands back the bone after he's made his claim. He bows to Storms-at-Dusk and Liam before stepping back, shifting back down to human form. Standing proudly.

<Thundergrowl> Thundergrowl looks between the three people who are challenging for Wyrmfoe. Uncertainty shows on their expression, nostrils flaring with a near-silent 'hnnnmmh' about it. Decisions decisions, apparently. Then eyes latch back onto hte bone.

<Silas> Silas might not have been all that lucid on the night of his rescue. But he listens to Niall's challenge with a nod of much respect.

<Brandon> Compared to his endorsements of the previous too, Brandon's take on Niall's is borderline shade: he raises his eyebrows, and tilts his head. Then he looks from the Fianna, to the Fury, to the Walker, and he smirks.

<Tess> Tess slips in respectfully after being late. Staying at the back wall as much as possible in search of a good place to sit. Noticing its challenge time she stays still and watches the group.

<Nathan> As the bone is offered, Nathan steps forward, shifting himself into chrinos as he does so. The midnight black fur is unmarred by anything, offering perfect black, while his eyes have a blood deep red to them. His tuxedo rips as a result of the shift. Placing his hands behind his back as he offers his words with determination, "To those who have never met me, I'm Breaks-The-Web, known to the humans as Nathan Amalomyn, Alpha of the Silent Claws Pack. I have no long line of ancestors to draw upon, I was a lucky birth, and I'm the outsider Shadow Lord Cliath Theurge whom has spent the last few months proving himself to this Sept as an ally and worthwhile addition. I've stepped up every time I've needed to step up. I've proven my willingness to do what I need to do to ensure the security of this Sept, and stepping up for the position of Warder is no different for me."

He looks around, "We're an urban Sept, defending an urban Caern. The Garou who takes Warder needs to be able to understand the city and the humans, and the needs of our Caern alike, to balance the risks. I've spent my entire life understanding and working in human cities, and I have the knowledge to watch out for direct and indirect attacks on our Bawn, with an unbiased view of defense, and I will grow into the role as I need. I challenge for the position of WARDER!" As he finishes, he gives a deferential bow to Liam, then to Dusk as the Garou offers the bone back, and he steps back.

<Storms-at-Dusk> Dusk gives a nod, his earlier words still fresh in minds. Taking the bone back from Nathan, he holds onto it for a short while longer. "All Garou will be tested. Several for the same position. We compete against each another, but not to harm each other. This is the one warning: to strike at one who challenges alongside you, is to strike at the Sept, and will be treated as such. Settle your dispute as our ancestors have done, but walk your own path."

With that, he turns towards Piper, catching the same determined look that many have had tonight.

<Brandon> Brandon spares a regretful glance for the tuxedo--it was incredibly well-tailored, and so young! But he lifts his chin, and looks up respectfully at his Alpha in dark Crinos as he addresses the caern heart. And he nods: to wear a good suit, this is wealth and fashion, but to wear a good suit for an hour, and then destroy it: this is a flex, and Brandon is all for it. He folds his arms, to indicate his complete and utter support for Breaks-the-Web's bid for Warder.

<Piper> Piper straightens the lapels of her blazer before she steps up to boldly take the bone. "Talesinging is more than just recitation as a good song isn't just something you hear, but you feel it in your heart and in your soul... something to rev the Sept up when it's time for a fight... and when there is bad news to deliver do so in a way that the message isn't despair but what we can learn from it and do better. Now I might not be the strongest wolf or the toughest wolf in this room, but that's fine. Gaia has blessed me with other gifts. I know how to read a room and how to craft a tale they need to hear when they need to hear it. Doesn't hurt that the spirits gave me Perfect Recall as well. We have to remember our past and need someone to sing our present into the future, and so I, Piper Zietec, rited Go-Phish, cliath Galliard of the Glass Walkers, challenge for Talesinger." That said, she gives the now interim Master of Challenge a nod and hand the bone back.

<Callum> Callum is nodding here and there at what various challengers say, though his attention wanders now and again, glancing over at Corey beside him to see how she's watching things going on. All in all, he's keeping silent and just standing there with his packmate. It's not tme to participate for him.

<Thundergrowl> Thundergrowl is translating for Valentine with sign language, letting Valentine translate for those kin who might not be able to speak it. Savage is giving the occasional extra explanation for parts that Valentine is missing. Backup for tonight, at least as a translator!

<Tess> Spotting a spot near kin Tess smiles and then lets her attention play on anyone who might be talking, assuming the bone is like a speak stick. She smiles and pays close attention to Dusk as he goes about his work. Piper is closely sistened to and she consideres all the words.

<Gabe> Gabe just continues to sit quietly, nostrils flaring every so often as he snorts out on occasion

<Storms-at-Dusk> "Talesinging is not only the songs of our present, but the stories of our past," Dusk explains. "When I first arrived to Smiling Angel, it was the previous Talesinger, Forged-in-Fire, who told me the sept's story and history." With the bone, he points to Piper. "Thus, you are presented with two parts to your challenge. One, you will record the tale of our Great Hunt to come. And two, you will take this time to learn the history of Smiling Angel. When next we meet, you will recount them both for all the Sept," gesturing to the others in the Moot.

Leaving her with the challenge, he makes his way down the line. Finally, stopping before Edge, and... a moment of confusion, looking to them, and then to Valentine. Uh... he wasn't quite prepared for this deviation from procedure, and sort of... jointly hands them both the bone.

<Foebiter> Foebiter 's eyebrows go up. A smile stretches across his face, a steady nod. Yes, yes, here we go...!

<Thundergrowl> Thundergrowl and their 'voice' stand up, though Edge accepts the bone. Still, it's Valentine doing the *actual* speaking as Edge holds it up: "I am Valentine Nash, kin to the Bone Gnawers and mate to Edge," says the kinfolk at Edge's side, "and I speak as Edge's voice." He pauses, looking over toward the Garou standing beside him. The Garou temporarily hands the bone to Valentine, hands going through the motions of ASL, translated by the kinfolk at their side. Practically a dance, even in their Crinos form.

"I am Thundergrowl, They/them, born to the humans as Billi Williamson, born to the streets as 'Edge', adopted as 'Thundergrowl' to Mama Rat. Homid-born Galliard. Cliath of the Bone Gnawers. Mated to Valentine Nash, Patriarch of LA's Nash family. For more than six months, now, I have been Keeper alongside Smoke-On-The-Water, Ragabash of the Uktena and former Keeper Of The Land. For months, he helped guide and instruct me, both in bettering myself as a Garou and in how to care for the Bawn, both inner and outer. His absence is keenly felt by us all. It is in his honor that I wish to step up and Challenge for the position. It is a duty I have been holding and performing for some time, now, and one I wish to be able to continue, as Keeper Of The Land in my mentor's stead."

The movement and slap of hands, the gestures and the facial and body language helping to carry subtleties in the words spoken by the kinfolk. When they stop, large, clawed hand drops to Valentine's shoulder. Giving it an oh so careful pressure, not risking a squeeze. 'Good work', says that touch as Edge accepts the bone back to hand it back to Storms-At-Dusk. With how long the bone took to reach their hands, it's no doubt a foregone conclusion, considering the position of this Cliath. Yet their expression shows no irony in this challenge.

<Foebiter> Foebiter 's smile fades, a sigh. Alas... So much for a worthy opponent.

<Thundergrowl> Thundergrowl glances in an apologetic look over to Foebiter. Next time, My Friend. Next time.

<Brandon> Brandon continues to serve as cheerleader for his pack's challenges. He does a little dance, for about two seconds, all elbows, no hips, when Piper mentions feeling a good song in one's soul; and then when she starts to go through her qualifications he nods several times for Piper, like she's making a lot of good points. When she mentions her gift, Perfect Recall, he screws up his face, as if he can't remember which one that is, and it's very embarrassing not to be able to remember stuff. His smile is huge, when she comes back; he punches her in the shoulder bro-ishly. To Nathan he offers a more respectful fist-bump. He attends closely as Storms lays out the terms of the challenge, and then nods, looking at Piper with big eyebrows and broad cheeks, all to indicate: she's got this.

<Storms-at-Dusk> Dusk casts his gaze around the Heart. Only then, does he notice a hand up.

<Dante Zimmer> There's a bit of a grin on Dante's face, as he holds up a hand to request a chance to talk before the Truthcatcher moves onto other business. He certainly doesn't bristle at going after the cliaths of the Sept. He's nice like that. Once taken, he looks over to Liam with a smile, and then to Addison. "I am Dante Zimmer, rited Four-Left-Feet. Fostern Galliard of the Glass Walkers. My pack is Pigeon," gesturing to the two at his side, and the totem spirit behind, "And we've worked this land as hard as any Keeper, even if we don't take our share in the limelight these days." turning his attention back to Liam, and Dusk, "I would put forth my challenge for Keeper of the Land. If nothing more, than to make sure Ghostwalker and Thundergrowl here are truly suited for the task." It's a jab of sorts, but the smile in which it offers belies a more friendly stage of competition, rather than anything malicious. With that, he hands the bone back. (Dante shifted to Crinos for that, and shifts back.)

<Valentine> At this point Valentine is use to acting as Edge voice and the nervousness has long been left behind. His voice was sure and loud. Spoken clear. Pushing that accent away for the benefit of the gathered. After his speaking he falls back a little bit further from Edge than he was. Considering his duty done, though close enough to be called upon if needed.

<Hawkins> Hawkins catches some of the translations and follows along as best he can, though he isn't ASL proficient either. It's a rough going, but it's good to be aware of local politics, especially when aforementioned politics are occasionally solved via claw and tooth. The social worker nods faintly with some approval as he looks over the sept, though he doesn't elaborate on his mood by interrupting the whole affair.

<Liam> Liam shifts his attention to Nathan and he gives a nod, "An interesting challenge between one who comes from the topside and one who comes from below. Which of you adapts to the other's playground better will determine who becomes Warder." There's a moment's pause as the Bone continues to pass from one challenger to the next. There's nothing to say of Piper's challenge, the Master of Challenge handles it as he would have and he simply nods. This is appropriate. Edge and Dante both earn a smile from the Surfer Bum, though he doesn't speak up for one reason or another for now.

<Storms-at-Dusk> Dusk is a little surprised at the rank deviation, but, doesn't question it. "For all who have challenged, formal word of your task will be brought in the coming days. ((+requests)) I will consult with Peacekeeper-rhya, and you will be made aware."

And for once, the lupus-born is going to deviate from the tradition. Holding the bone aloft with both hands, he calls out to the heart of the caern. "I would call all new to the Sept of the Smiling Angel, to step forth. Introduce yourself formally to your brothers and sisters. Let all know your name, your tribe, your moon. Your face!"

<Logan> Logan listnens, looking from one to the other, the passing of the bone directing who may speak and who must be silent. A moot this time of the week? It's different, but it's definitely good.

<Brandon> Both of these new challengers for Keeper-of-the-Land get Brandon's attention, but he's running out of attention-mugging facial expressions. He favours his tribemate, Four-Left-Feet, with a nod of his head and a faint smile, before turning his attention on Thundergrowl. This look is longer, more serious, more ambiguous. It's hard to say what he's trying to convey, if anything, across the flickering fire.

<Ashlynn> After voicing her Challenge, Ash has fallen back on holding up some wall, thinking and listening to the different challenges and who seems to support who - sort of.

<Nathan> As Brandon offers a fist bump to the crinos Shadow Lord, Breaks-The-Web returns it as the ten feet tall intimidating presence just... stares at the rest of the Challenges as they come.

<Thundergrowl> Thundergrowl glances sidelong to Dante, squinting at him. It's a silent 'OI!', but that look is definitely an 'OI!' there. Still, the jab is taken with *only* that squint. One thing's for sure: they've had worse. And at least they have the confidence to put in; one little poke's not going to dislodge that challenge. Although this new entry into the ring is given a slow and curious study.

<Tess> Tess watches the odd display of Edge and Valentine. She must have missed a bit in the last few months. Trying to make out a few of the ASL signs, full of curiosity. Then Dante speaks up and she smiles at his words, her smirk grows with every sentance.

<Ghostwalker> Ghostwalker, from his standing position up with the rest of the entourage responsible for the pageantry of the moot, looks up when Edge also challenges for Keeper of the Land. It is, again, difficult to tell what he thinks about this. His beastial face wears an Austere scowl.

Though when Four-Left-Feet makes his Challenge Known to the Sept that seems to Change. Stepping out of line and changing shape Addison reverts to Homid as easily as one throws off a jacket. His moot close reform around him as he strides briskly towards Dante. The expression he wears when crossing the Heart is worryingly blank...

Until he closes in on the Glasswalker. Once standing in front of Dante, he puts forth a hand out to the other man. A coyote grin cracks his face and the lines of chalk-over-grease. He excitedly offers a ferocious handshake in respect to the given challenge...

<Xavier> Xavier has kept in the shadows, though his eyes have closed so he will find himself sitting but out of the way. He stretches as he seems to stir and look around for a moment, seeing that things are still going, he leans his head back against the wall.

<Foebiter> Foebiter gently nudges Petal forward. "Go, brag," he encourages.

<Silas> Silas remains somewhat absent once his breathing slows and he opens his eyes. Focused on the present and those around him, but perhaps not quite listening. His gaze drifts off after Addison, watching as his alpha offers his tribe-mate that ferocious handshake. But soon he begins to observe those that step forward to introduce themselves.

<Thundergrowl> Thundergrowl observes the slight from Ghostwalker with little to no extra expression. Just a deeper set of focus and determination on their face. Attention swings from the pair over that way to the crowd, ears perking up to take note of the newest arrivals and those looking to make their introductions.

<Xavier> Hearing the call to come introduce themselves to the Sept, Xavier knows he's not done that yet, he's just been here. He had spoke with Liam but he sighs as he gets to his feet. Wearing black and gray clothing, seeing others move up, he begins walking up to where it's indicated. As he moves up, he sees Tess and he smiles at her and gives her a wink as he walks up.

<Brandon> Brandon gives Xavier a quick upnod, mouth open but reasonably respectful. Brandon knows this guy. He knows this guy perhaps too well--they have been through some shit. He waits for the official introduction.

<Tess> Catching sight of Xavier and her eyes light up as she watches the man move up. She slips closer finding an open spot near the front so she can get a vetter view of the man. Looking at Liam and blushing a bit before her eyes go back to the handsome black man.

<Falling-Petals> Petal seems encouraged by Foebiter and she will take the bone if offered. She gets into the middle of the meeting, risen up to her masive crinos height. She is a bit of slender and mixmatched looking crinos. Her coat is not sleek and that multi-colored fur is not in any kind of neat pattern, but is chaos. One patch of her dove grey, one mud brown, another black and so on and so on. Even the shades of gray and brown change a bit. She speaks in her wolfy way, words growled and howled and barked out. "I am Petal, Falling-Petals, Born Ophelia to a human mother and a father who is said to be some guy. Born and raised in Skid Row. Ahroun. Bone Gnawers. Falling-Petals for falling blood, falling away kin, lost siblings and cousins. Trained in Western Eye as cub, came back home when Cliath. Here to fight."

<Corey> Corey continues to quietly lean against her pack-mate, watching the remainder of the moot's challengers step up to the task at hand. It brings Corey some comfort to see how many different names are being thrown into the ring for sept leadership positions. Competition is good, after all. The young woman, still in homid form, turns to look towards her packmate at her side and, at last, steps away from him. The call for introductions of the newer members to the Sept is answered, it would seem. When she speaks, her voice is pitched soft, but confident. The language of her body is, too. "My name is Corey Fischer. Cliath. Child of Gaia. Philodox. My cub-name was Tater-Tot, but, uh, we're working on that," she says. As she speaks, she glances to those around her with a gaze that contains a quiet, ferocious intensity that seems at odds with the lightness of her voice and the sweetness of her smile. Behind those lips, after all, are teeth meant for gnashing, ripping, and tearing.

"For most of my life, I thought Gaia's blessing was... a curse. A bad dream, maybe. That I couldn't wake up from. I was Lost, you know? On my own. But now," Corey says, and gestures to Callum, "I am Found. And now I know why my dreams fill my mouth with the taste of blood. It must be, because it must be."

Corey's body bristles, her face briefly contorted with the rage that burns with her and abrupt sudden transformation into Crinos. It might be easy to doubt that Corey is a wolf in homid form. But standing here now, in the tattered ruins of her clothes, it would be awfully difficult to dispute that fact.

<"Ready to kill. Beside all of you. Thank you for welcome me to home."> Yeah that wolf-speak's not quite there yet.

<Thundergrowl> Thundergrowl looks back and forth between the people talking, giving an upnod at each of them. Corey's transformation gets a grimace as the clothes shred away. See, this is why Edge brought a robe: easier to shed if you grow fast! Still, the expression turns back to less of a grimace and more of an approving one, nodding at Corey, nodding at Petal. A nod at Xavier as well, though *him* they've already met and been introduced to.

<Brandon> Brandon's got his chin raised and a big grin on as the new arrivals step up to introduce themselves, and he's jovial, he's welcoming, until Petal growls out that critical Hight-Tongue word: Ahroun. His head tilts, his brows crease, his smile fails on one side only. He nods a little, as he scopes out the competition, hands in pockets. Then she says she's from Western Eye, and he looks legitimately angry for a moment, before smiling again, big and fake. Corey's introduction gets no such treatment: she is a Philodox, and her name is Tater-Tot. His smile for her is genuine, if patronizing.

<Xavier> Seeing Falling Petal in her multi-colored Crinos form, he does keep a few steps back watching, respecting her space as she introduces herself. He didn't understand the growls, but with others translating for the kinfolk he nods his head, a respectful bow of his head goes to Falling Petal.

Then he sees Corey moves up to make her introductions. He's met Corey a few times but that was it, and as she starts off in homid form speaking, he could follow and understand her. He smiles but when she shifts, he watches her transformation, he's always enjoyed watching the Garou shift and again the translations are provided to him and the other kinfolk.

Xavier moves up giving Corey space, as he moves up he sees Tess and he gives a nod of his head to her, his eyes weary, he looks out at those assembled here, his hands clasped behind him, as he stands in military rest. He sees Brandon, his Temp Pack brother, and he sees Silas, and Foebiter as well. "My name is Xavier Ari Kahiau, Kinfolk of the Black Furies. Child of Homid Born Father Kinfolk Darrius Jones, Garou Black Fury mother Saia Kahiau, Mother Garou Eliza Deltoro." he says, "I'm an Ex-Navy Seal, served in the military for the U.S. for six years, followed in my fathers, and grandfathers path. Trained in the ways of the Black Furies and Garou. I own Elite Tactical Training Center where I teach self-defence and all manners of training for Garou and Kinfolk alike, as well as help the normals." he pauses for a moment. "I've also helped my Temp Pack brothers Foebiter-rhya, Roller-Coaster-Rhya, Wrath-of-Danu Rhya and Shining-and-Lustrous Rhya to rescue Shot-in-the-Dark Rhya." he says. "I'm here for you all, I'm a fighter, and will give up my life for any of you, Garou, kinfolk alike." he pauses as he steps forwad, taking in everyone that he sees, "That is my word. Some of you I've met and introduced myself, please accept this as my official introduction. I also have been taking as a mate to Tess Fen Black, Rite Name Bloody Tires, Ragabash of the Glasswalkers." He takes a moment watching everyone, "Thank you for your time. Nice to finally meet you all." he says as he takes a step back behind the two Garou.

<Griffin> Of course, there would be several new faces around. Even the Cal-Tech Garou would offer a light introduction. With one final glance over the Sept, AFTER the new faces have introduced themselves and petitioned the Alpha, Dusk casts his fiery eyes over the Sept one last time. And with that, brings the bone crashing down over his knee, shattering it in half, and offering the juicy goodness to the Concrete Coyote. The official business of the Sept is concluded.

But business there still is... During the ensuing period of songs and stories, the mingling after, the aged warrior with the iron-gray hair will slowly circle all those who are gathered. A slash across the palm, the flow of blood into the bowl. By the end of his journey, the bowl will be full, and with one long feather, will begin to inscribe traditional pictograms on those who volunteer to participate for the Great Hunt. He does this duty solemnly, giving each who come before him a firm regard, and respectful bow of his head. Offering brief words of wisdom and encouragement. The slow, gradual playing out of The Great Hunt. The former Truthcatcher moving over to assist him, with the occasional quiet conversation.