2022-01-14 It's Time for Moot, Dudes V

It's Time for Moot, Dudes V

Participants: Garou of the Los Angeles Protectorate

Storyteller: Griffin

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

Date and Time: Early Night - January 1X, 2022 - Waxing Gibbous

Summary: This Moot, several packs announce and challenges are heard...

<Dante Zimmer> Dante Zimmer arrives, with his pack members in tow. His second, Ximena "Grows-the-Urban-Wilds", the rather weaver-focused Fostern Uktena Theurge. And, a new third member, who does not seem to be known among the group, holding a rather starry-eyed expression as he takes in the sights of those gathered.

<Chazz> Chazz comes trailing in right behind Adeline with a big smile on his lips, always looking fairly friendly despite his size. He gives a wave to those about the area in greetings and then stops near Adeline to lean up against the wall and await for the event to start.

<Alexander> Tonight, Alexander is dressed to the nines, garbed in his ceremonial armor that he appeared in during his arrival at the Sept nearly a month ago. A mixture of etched plates atop furred leather, matching gauntlets and sabatons, and a hefty leather belt and subligar covered in a blue tabard with a red woven cord and tassle. The large silver klaive strapped in a partial sheathe behind him. In the crinos form, it would look imposing, and certainly show off his white fur; tonight onlookers would have to settle for that rigorous athletic strength and numerous scars decorating his torso.

To his rear, are the four Garou that make up his pack, the Falcon's Talons. The ever-brooding Morozov garbed in black, the bright-haired and cheery Galliard, and the two dark-haired female and male, his pack's Philodox and Ragabash respectively. Tonight, they are quiet, and keep towards the back of the gathering. Alexander, meanwhile, makes his way towards the front of the gathering, one hand resting on the hilt of his blade as he weaves through those present.

<Valentino> After some have already gathered, one of the indigenous peoples enter into the Heart of the Caern. If it wasn't for his obviously Hispanic/Navajo features, one cannot miss the fact he is dressed for ritual. Valentino is wearing buckskin pants and ceremonial bone warshirt. His face is painted with blues to represent his place as a shaman. Two feathers are woven into his hair. As always his doeskin bag is carried as well. He finds a place to stand before sweeping his gaze over the congregation gathered thus far.

<Pace> Pace will have to invest in nicer clothes. Wearing his usual digs, the massive Ahroun plods along with a shortened stride next to Lola. Lion pack gets a collective upnod and a lift of hand, but otherwise he is content to let the gremlin find a spot for them to lurk. Preferably where he can put his back to a wall.

<Niall> Niall does indeed walk in with Lucas and Bronwyn. He finds the place and takes his place. He looks to those gathered and offers greetings and cordials.

<Declan> Declan makes room for Wovoka and gives Lynn a nod of greeting as she enters and does likewise. "Good evening," he says to Wovoka, "I can guess why you came over. Definitely good news to tell you, but I need a day or two to make it official." He sees the big-wigs heading in and adds, "Come by later, and I can give you the full run-down."

<Jose> The Caern, it's not that rare to find the newest Uktena Theurge in here. He visits often, but tonight is a slightly different case. Jose enters, knowing about the moot, and pausing at the doorway. Not surprising to see a ton of wolf and kin gathered, but it still takes him a moment before entering. Eyes scan those gathered, before the man does as he often does, and makes his way around the outside of the domed cavern. He is not dressed in anything different than normal, no pomp and circumstance for him. His hand reaches out to slide gently along the caverned wall, and there's no surprise he starts talking to himself, or something else, possibly the wall, he has quite the relationship with those. Fingers touch some of the bioluminescent fungi where it drapes on one wall. Not the first time he's seen it, but it's still a curiosity. He runs a finger along one of them, speaking softly again, before he decides this is where he will stop, and set his bag down, moving to a crouch near the wall. Far more interested in the foliage for now, than much else going on.

<Corey> Corey arrives around the same time as Felicity and Granuaile. She's dressed... well... she's dressed a little prettier for today! She's applied a little makeup, put on a dress, and done her hair into a loose little braid that hangs over her left shoulder. The dress itself bares some midriff, split somewhere at the waist to show off the abdominal muscles of her core and that pierced navel. Cute, white slip-on sneakers and an actual pair of jewelry a necklace finish off the outfit. She turns to speak something hushed to the other two she's arrived with, and then heads up towards the front to find a good spot near the Talesinger.

Waves are given to faces both familiar and unfamiliar (even that starry-eyed one with Dante Zimmer, I see you!) as she goes, and when she settles in, she seems to nervously fidget with her skirt and dress.

<Bronwyn> Bronwyn is silent as she follows the pack, heading towards the place Lucas has picked out. There are so many people she looks a tad overwhelmed but when she spots the figure of Alexander she smiles and nudges Niall and Lucas and aeems to buzz with a bit of excitement.

<Liam> Liam stands in the Heart, near the Heart-Fire on bare feet in his Ritual robes, the midnight blue dyed fabric worn into interesting patterns of light and dark; all background to the silvery threaded embroidery that depicts various Garou constellations in the night sky. The sleeves are rolled to the elbow to leave whip-cord muscled forearm exposed. Only a pair of linen britches beneath means the Athro's scarred and inked torso is left bare, the storied wolf's deeds inked into his sun-kissed flesh - a stark contrast to the pinkish-white gnarl of Baneklaive scar over his heart, now changed, looking less deadly wound and more badge of honor. His hair remains tied back with the usual Unicorn scrunchi though, always repping his Totem. As it is Moot, the wolf wears the King Klaive belted to his hip with one hand on the pommel to keep the tip from catching a friend.

He is joined by Dusk, by Only-Ghosts, and he recognizes his pack as they enter, giving each a fond smile. Alexander's presence is hard to miss, and the man is offered a different kind of fond smile, but it's there all the same. As for the rest of his Sept, he does see them, acknowledge them, but there are serious matters to attend to as well.

<Rigby> Greetings exganged, Rigby adopts a pose of a cartoon depiction of an art director, one hand under the opposite elbow, the raised hand holding his pipe, from which bubbles begin to emerge and float about the chamber. He eyes a few of the other wolves, curiously or just normally, whatever that is, and then turns his attention to the front as the O-Team begins gathering.

<Stray Mutt> Stray Mutt hovers near Billy for now, sniffing at his lunch box. She does look to Liam, giving him a muzzle lift of a greeting, but considering he lots of important things to do, she otherwise leaves him be. Her brown canine eyes are friendly, her tail is relaxed and half-lifted. She seems like a peaceful gnawer hound at the moment. She chuffs a hello to Valentino.

<Lucas> Lucas is nudged by Bronwyn and he just sort of nods chuckling at her, yes, he can see the Silver Fang too. Gaze glancing to Niall, and if they make eye contact he gives a nod to him as well. Lucas letting a smile linger on his features as everyone gathers.

<Wovoka Jones> Wovoka Jones grins ear to ear. "Good to hear it, waterbearer," he tells Declan. "I'll look forward to hearing the story." He rolls his left hand, working out the kinks in his joints, and prepares to hunker down for the long meeting. Hopefully some good news coming down the pipe - god knows he could use some.

<Mark.> A rivulet of blood dripples over Mark's jaw as it juts out a little further. He watches the Garou and kin file in, of all sizes, statures and status, individually and in groups. His teeth grind in his head, which doubtless makes a stark contrast to the gentle and stately Jag, and the cartoonishly irreverent Rigby.

<Piper> Piper does take a moment before things officially kick off to lean in and whisper a few words for her packmates ears only. Once a few murmurs passed back and forth, back to standing up straight and tall and just trying to keep that professional-look thing going.

<Stray Mutt> Stray Mutt sniffs in Brownyn direction, probably thinking about foods. She gives a chuffed greeting to Wovoka who she probably knows and one to Mark. She has a more subdued greeting for Jag, that is subly in mourning?

<Griffin> Every month, the Sept holds a moot to, first and foremost, recharge the caern with their spiritual energy. These offerings of Gnosis maintain the sacred heart of the Garou in Los Agneles. Some moots are busier than others, with numerous points of business, challenges, and the like, bringing a sense of order and stability to the Garou so rooted in tradition. Others, are merely gatherings that reaffirm their connections with each other, sharing a few stories, before departing back to their daily lives. With the Sept of the Smiling Angel holding informal gatherings every week or so, occasionally the meeting is replaced with a more formal variation in the form of these minor moots. Typically monthly, they come about when the Sept Alpha and the officers decide the time to convene one is necessary, and the ceremonies start in the days leading up, with the Master of the Howl announcing the day on which it takes place.

This, is one of those such moots, though rumors and discussions surround the event as several look towards the open sept positions for themselves. With the ceremonial traditions out of the way; the Fool providing some biting commentary on a recent social issue, before slinking back into the crowd; the Caller of the Wyld offering invitations to the various spirits, though with only the usual smattering of Totemic avatars and curious onlookers present for the more minor affair; and then, the Truthcatcher Silas 'Shot-in-the-Dark' stepping forward with his choice of bone for the evening. Announcing the Cracking of the Bone.

As is to be expected, the Sept Alpha is offered the bone first; the reclusive Elder of Bunker Hill maintains his long-standing record of non-attendance, seeing no reason to break his years-long absence from the Sept's daily affairs tonight. In turn, after Liam's given his words of introduction, the bone is in turn offered to Only-Ghosts-Behind-Him, the Sept's Gatekeeper, who does not break from the norm, declining the chance to speak as he tends to the intricacies of the Moot Rite and Opening the Caern. Morena Moon, the Sept's Mistress of the Rites, isn't present, seemingly still away on her own personal quest.

<Adeline> Offering Liam a bright smile in return, Adeline manages a faint wave to him and Disk both... her hand lowering to her side. She maintains her silence next to Chazz where the larger Coggie Ahroun clearly towers over her much more diminuitive form. Her gaze flits up and over to Chazz before leaning closer against his side once the ceremony begins.

<Valentine> Valentine Nash raises a brow at the appearance of Alexander and Co. He sidles to the side of the entrance as more and more people follow in. But he does spare a glance for those he recognizes. Corey, Liam, Clint, Bronwyn, Lucas, Niall...etc etc... Each gets a up-nod before his eyes settle on Jag. A hand rises and then he slips further in and more...out of the way. Keeping to himself for now...

<Jag> Jag had already been silence, and lips only press tighter together when the bone begins its passage around the Sept. Her eyes are on it, watching the passage, distracted. Waiting. Listening. Thinking. Hard.

<Stray Mutt> Stray Mutt looks on attentively as the moot begins with her tail half-lift, ears relaxed, canine eyes bright and muzzle just slightly lifted.

<Granuaile> Dressed up a little more than usual, Granuaile makes her way into the Heart with Felicity and Corey, the redhead wearing a green blazer with a black turtleneck, a pair of 'dress' jeans (ones that don't show much sign of wear or distress about the knees, at least), and a pair of brown leather sneakers. She drifts over toward Jag and offers a smile and a hug, before turning to regard Mark with a look of concern. Various combinations of smiles and waves are given to the others she recognizes, along with a respectful nod given to Liam. Spotting Alexander, she finds herself spending more than a beat staring at him in his armor, awestruck. Only just managing to avoid letting her gaze linger for /too/ long, she turns back to Corey, giving the blonde an encouraging smile before looking for a place to stand. As the bone begins to be passed around, she settles into listening to the proceedings attentively.

<Valentino> Without a word, Valentino gives the 'Stray Mutt' a small wave and a smile? No way! Is this the really real world? It can't be. Yes, the Uktena flashes a smile to the Gnawer, though very briefly, then returns to his neutral expression and folds his arms. He settles down into a crouch to get comfortable for the moot, attention constantly shifting over the various groups who whisper and interact with each other.

<Alicia> Alicia smiles as she looks around, listening to all the people go through the motions of the monthly moot. She pays attention and enjoys listening to that stuff, though she is most curious about major things to be announce and pays extra attention when the bone comes out.

<Stray Mutt> Stray Mutt looks over to Mark and seems concerned or her ears press back and her tail lowers a bit anyways. She looks at his jaw and that blood. She keeps quiet though.

<Chazz> Chazz returns a nod back to Liam, and even gives a little wave to the stray mutt. He otherwise maintains silence though as the event kicks, content with just being a wall for Adeline to lean up against.

<Lola> Lola does find a bit of wall, for Pace's back to rest near, always one who liked to linger near the exits herself, she /gets/ it. Her eyes drift over the leadership old and new, taking in the looks they share with each other, before settling on Alexander. But she's never fool enough to let herself stare for too long, the wolf can always sense it, and she has never been overly fond of when they stare back.

Her attention is given to the ceremonies at hand, though perhaps they linger with the most interest ones that bring the spirits forward, her violet eyes fixed with engaged interest.

But she is the creature she is, and so her eyes must travel, flicking to every motion, every new and unfamiliar face, ever hyper vigilant, always doing an inventory of the people around her.

<Felicity> Felicity is present. She arrives with Granuaile and Corey, sporting her rather unfitting budget-goth outfit that she clearly picked up from Goodwill and just became fond of. She too offers hugs, to Jag, Bronwyn, Declan and Piper if they accept hugs. And then, she finds a seat along with Granuaile, and only then notices just how *decked out* Alexander is. Impressive.

<Lynn> Lynn, after a little elbowing with Brandon, takes a pose of respectful repose, crossing her hands at the wrist in front of her. As the Moot begins, her posture straightens, attention more engaged. She bows her head deeply to the totems as they come, particularly Easy Credit, but she does not seem to thirst for the Bone. Perhaps others do, tonight.

<Stray Mutt> Stray Mutt lifts her tail and muzzle in a kind of silent and canine greeting for Chazz and Adeline both.

<Billy> Billy closes his lunch box when things get started, given that it is a serious affair. He did manage to sneak some little morsels to the Stray Mutt but only a palm-full really. He's standing then, ready and attentive.

<Valentine> Oh Felicity. Valentine glances over to her too and offers her a subtle wave. Before focusing back on watching the room.

<Jag> Jag accepts hugs that are pressed on her, but aside from that, her thoughts are intensely inward for the moment. Eyes on that bone. Locked to it, even as hugs are offered. No sound, no word. All focus. Both waiting, and listening. Jag is... not really her usual self, to be sure, aside from the greetings to her pack.

<Bronwyn> Bronwyn sees the stray sniffing at her and she gives her an apologetic gaze but then blows her a kiss in hopes that is apology enough! She spots the up nod from someone and she smiles and waves but then does a double take as she realizes it's Valentine. Her expession brightens, clearly joyful to see the man has returned. Corey's hug is of course returned and she gives her a quick peck on the cheek before Corey is off to greet others. She peeks again at Alexander and that shiny armor, letting out a happy little sigh before she turns her attention to Liam!

<Felicity> Felicity does a double-take. Wait, Valentine's back? When did he... Blink. Blink blink. Subtle wave returned, with an equally subtle smile.

<Stray Mutt> Stray Mutt eats the sneaky food given to her by Billy. She is always hungry and always broke. She seems to accept the apology from Brownyn, giving her tail wag. She dosen't chuff though as she doesn't have the bone.

<Nikolai> Kol arrives quietly, not really drawing much attention to himself, but he simple steps over to the Lion pack with a soft smile, A hug is given to Bronwyn, in which he stand with his pack. looking upon the events of the evening.

<Rigby> Rigby takes the time to look to the back of the caern as the bone is being administered, and his hand lifts a little in greeting to Wren when he spots her, and then he crouches down, his elbows resting on his knees for the proceedings to get underway, head cocked, listening and smelling more than actually watching.

<Piper> Piper is not much of a hugging sort, but Felicity does get an affectionate pat on the shoulder. Close enough? But there's a Howl to listen to and the invitation of the spirits met with it's usual awe. And then the meat of the evening as it's time to Crack that Bone and so like everybody else, that's where her quiet attention shifts.

<Niall> Niall looks to Mike and Kol as they arrive. He offers them a warm smile, but turns his attention back forward for now.

<Pace> Pace puts his back to the wall so Lola is to the exit-side of him. Looking relaxing, the big dude is watching the gathering with interest.

<Valentine> Does the Duffel bag carrying all his earthly possessions, abandoned by the entrance ALSO smell heavily of Nash brand jerky. Maybe...but that's not why we're here. Bronwyn's bright expression catches his gaze before he returns his focus onto Jag, narrowing his eyes in thought...maybe it's easy for him to read her...or maybe she's projecting, but Valentines bright grin begins to slowly die off.

<Adeline> Sparing a sidelong smile for Chazz, as the man steps up to be her personal leaning wall, Adeline gazes around the room at the others gathered while listening. She does offer a warm flash of a smile to the Stay Mutt and even another smile and bob of her head to Valentino in his ceremonial dress.

Curiousity does draw her attention to the falcon pack, taking note of Alexander's armor and weapon, as well as the other four, but she merely offers then a soft smile in return - not staring too much lest she be considered rude.

<Mike>Mike makes his way towards to the Caern, he rubs his eyes a little bit as he makes his way inside. It takes him a moment, but he sees where the pack is, but he waited until some of the larger speeches were made. Mike than moves through the gathered, he does bow his head to Garou and Kin alike as he makes his pass through.

<Lucas> Lucas lets his attention bounce around as people move and things are set in motion. The passing of the bone of course the start of it all and so he waits. Business.

<Chazz> Chazz maintains his vigilant watch against the wall, passing a gaze over the crowd that has gathered and looking over each one of them. He does however pause on Alexander and his pack, not having seen them before he does linger on them for a few moments but not in a rude or challenging way.

<Liam> Liam takes the bone into his hand and studies it for a long time. It seems like a lifetime ago he was the one offering the bone to others. Fingers work over the smoothness for a moment and he looks up to regard the Sept at large. "There's been...progress. I hesitate to call it that at times, but we continue to grow, we continue to learn, and we continue to make mistakes to learn from. That said, there are reasons to take pride. There are more Totems represented in the Sept than ever before, more work being done than in even a decade past. Make no mistake though, we are on the edge of losing ground again. Wolves caught alone are wolves that end up dead, this is why we have packs in the first place. If you haven't found a pack yet, look around for the others that are packless yet and see if you can find a common goal."

"More will be asked of you though, just doing due diligence isn't enough at this point. The Enemy is many, they're hard to see coming, and they know more about us than we do about them. Since the Siege they've been catching up, since our first offensive since the Siege, they've responded - they're poking the walls, they're taking out the weak ones that stray away. Are you paying attention yet?!" His voice raises in demandingly Dad fashion. "They are. Alpha's we'll be meeting with the express intent of coming up with a better plan than 'let shit happen until decisions are made for us'. Some of you are used to being able to skate through, that won't be the case going forward."

That's it, that's the whole of his speech for this evening, no encouraging words, no brighter linings, he simply hands the bone back to Silas.

<Jag> Jag looks to Liam at that, a steady face directed his way and a nod of her head answering his statement without words. Expression hard. She reaches out to offer a squeeze of hand to Mark, to Rigby. One hand for either of them. Then a release as she continues to watch and wait for the Bone's passage around the crowd, seriously.

<Silas> Silas steps aside in respectful silence as the Sept Alpha addresses the moot, hand resting over the brass handle of his cane. The Truthcatcher stands in a bespoke suit of deep blue with splashes of watercolor florals on his tie. Once Liam has finished speaking, he inclines his head with a subtle baring of his throat before taking the curved rib of a large animal back into his grip. Casting his gaze across the gathering, he carries it next to Alexander.

<Bronwyn> Bronwyn returns the hug from Kol and she gives him a small smile. When Mike comes over he gets a quiet hug as well but the words from Liam have her attention. Speaking of the seige has the tiny kin give a bit of a shiver but she folds her hands before her and listens to their Alpha.

<Felicity> Felicity furrows a brow at Liam. Silent glowering. Well, less 'glowering' and more 'sad-face-ness'. Thing is, she knows he's right.

<Niall> Niall listens to Liam and his expression hardens a bit. He follows the bone, when it's passed to Alexander. This should be interesting.

<Granuaile> Granuaile is definitely paying attention. There's a determined look on her face as she listens to Liam, and she unconsciously takes a little half-step closer to Felicity, as if that'll protect her from being one of the strays caught alone that the Alpha warns of. Shifting her weight from one foot to the other, she focuses her gaze on the bone, watching as it is exchanged to Silas and then to Alexander.

<Pace> Pace mms, the sound unintentionally growly when really, he's just thinking and has a big voice, even when not using it.

<Lynn> Lynn smiles, a little, at what Liam says, though, of course, the details remain obscure. It's a small look, the look of someone who already did the homework.

<Alicia> Alicia looks to Liam and listens to what he has to say. She doesn't seem too surprised by what he is saying, in fact it seems like similar things she had heard before.

<Nikolai> Nikolai looks down to the Coggie Kin, then just study her for a moment before looking over to Niall, Mike, Lucas with a nod, however when Liam speaks Kol listens.

<Alexander> Taking the bone from Silas, Alexander grips it tightly with his free hand, as he turns sharply to face the crowd of Garou gathered, that ostentious tabard of his swaying with the motions.

"We, are at war."

Spoken loudly, with the utmost confidence, the matter-of-fact words echoing in the Heart's chamber. He lets the words hang in the air for several long seconds, before he continues. "Since we last convened here, three Garou have been slain. Whether these deaths are physically connected, matters not, for they all carry with them the stench of the Wyrm." Gesturing back to Liam with his hand holding the bone, "It is as the Alpha states, we are being tested. Each and every day. And we have been met unchallenged, the blood of our brothers spilled by the Enemy. With our loss of the Warder, we do not have an organized pack of Guardians to act as our bulwark. And the death of the one who sought the position of Wyrm Foe has left us without the means to answer back their vile transgressions."

When he next speaks, it's first said to the crowd gathered, but turns as he is speaking to focus on both the Sept's Alpha and Master of Challenges. "I claim the position of Wyrm Foe, of the Sept of the Smiling Angel. Falcon's Talons answers the call, and will bring death to the enemies of Gaia from this night forward." He does not yet relinquish the bone back to Silas.

<Wovoka Jones> Wovoka Jones furrows his brow. What the shit does this guy mean, 'claim'?

<Piper> Serious words are heard with serious expression on Piper's face. Mention about lone wolves and packless wolves does have her reaching out an elbow to nudge each of her packmates, first Brandon and then Lynn. And while Alexander's words might not be unexpected, she does turn to look towards Dusk as Master of Challenges for his take on the claim.

<Valentine> Valentine ticks a brow as he listens to this...Alexander. Brief side glances around the Heart to gauge the reactions of those whose opinions he respects.

<Jag> Jag doesn't show any surprise at Alexander's statement about reaching for Wyrmfoe, though the way that is staked as a *claim* definitely does rankle her. Slightly narrowed eyes say as much. Jag's eyes look over in the direction of the rest of the Sept, staying silent, but confirming with others on how that... reaction sends them.

<Lola> Lola's lips begin to tug into a thin line, her chin lifts, and her face grows stern as Liam speaks. Though when Alexander speaks, she gives a slight nod of her head, before looking towards the others, trying to gather their reactions to the news.

<Felicity> Felicity shuffles closer to Granuaile, slipping an arm around the other's waist in a show of pack-li-ness. And as Alexander speaks... makes sense, makes sense aaaaaaand the claim... yeah it makes sense. Yeah. Her brows go up at the word 'claim', eyes panning around the room to look for the inevitable challengers to that claim.

<Corey> Corey remains calm and resolute during Liam's speech, holding the Alpha's gaze with her own in a show of agreement and understanding rather than a challenge. There is a brief aside to Felicity and Granuaile a very small smile, seeing the latter drift a bit closer to the former. But Corey's posture is stiff, rigid, and attentive. And that body language doesn't relax when Alexander receives THE BONE and announces his cliam to Wyrmfoe. The Philodox tips her head subtly in consideration, but it straightens out a few moments later. There is no brow furrowing. No real surprise. She just watches Alexander with those steel grey eyes for as long as he holds THE BONE.

<Storms-at-Dusk> Naturally, Dusk had expected challenges to be put forth for the vacant, and possibly occupied, sept positions, though none as forward as how the Silver Fang had put his. Turning his attention towards Liam for the moment, he doesn't speak, nor offer any lupine expressions visible to the crowd.

<Bronwyn> What? A reason to look at Alexander, Bronwyn doesn't mind at all! She listens to the way his voice booms and her eyes go wide with hero worship! She doesn't seem at all surprised by the claim. She rocks on her heels a bit and lets her gaze sweep to the others to see their reaponse but she looks excited about the Silver Fang's confidence!

<Niall> Brows rise a bit at the 'claim'. Niall watches Alexander and looks to his pack. He sets his jaw and turns back to Alexander and the Sept elders. Let's see how this is dealt with.

<Lucas> Lucas nods as he listens to Alexander, the warrior bristling some. He clear has no qualms that Liam is right, more will need to come from them. That thought leading him to tirn right towards the armored Silver Fang.

When Alexander makes his claim for Wyrmfoe, Lucas doesnt rankle, he doesnt furrow his brow. No he makes a light rumble of support, a growl deep in his chest swallowed down. War. Vengeance. Glory. Oh yes all there but in the Child of Gaia? Life, a chance to save some, and take the enemies and perhaps, emotion has him in the moment.

<Mark.> Mark's teeth are bared at Alexander's announcement of war. He'd come ready for it. He seemed like he was ready to wage it any second now as he clenched his fists tight so hard they shook.

<Adeline> The words of the Fang strike a chord throughout the chamber, that's for certain, but they hardly come as a shock for the Coggie kinfolk. Adeline bites her lip slightly at the word choice, but does look to the rest of those gathered to see if any others rise forth to challenge. Slowly, she cranes her head up to look to Chazz, leaning in closer to him.

<Rigby> Rigby looks around at all the aback-taking, a look of mild confusion as to its source, maybe, even though is is definitely maybe scratching the bridge of his nose with a middle finger. What?

<Pace> Pace glances to Lola, then back to the Alpha of the Silver Fang pack. There's another of those low rumbles, this of approval. A sword in the Sept Alpha's hand only lacks for a Shield in the form of a Warder.

<Nikolai> Nikolai study Alexander, his eyes carefully takes in the Silver Fang's claim, his expression goes blank, no expression one way or another, it would seem it doesn't shock him in the least bit.

<Chazz> Chazz stands up a bit straighter when Liam begins to talk, listening to his words and slowly canting his head back and forth in agreement with his words. When the bone is passed to Alexander, he continues diverts his attentive gaze to the man once more, eyebrows lifting upwards momentarily and then a smile finally touching his lips. Then he is dipping his head down to listen to Adeline.

<Declan> Declan watches Alexander as he speaks. There's no reaction on his face at the Athro's claim, nor does he look around to see how others are reacting. He just watches the Silver Fang with a blank expression expecting...more?

<Jose> Jose recognizes most of the important faces now. So many of these gatherings. So when Liam takes the bone, he certainly is aware of him, his attention coming off the cavern to settle on him. Resting in a crouch, he settles his arms on that backpack in front of him, to listen intently. If there is any reaction to what is said, the Theurge makes no expression, simply nods once he is done speaking. A token to suggest he has heard.

That's when Alexander takes the podium, and this man he's not so familiar with, but if one listens they might be able to sus out who the man is. He speaks with authority and that's a clue and like Liam he has Jose's rapt attention. In this case, however, his face falls it a little frown at the mention of war and death. Sad even. And all the more so, at the mention of Falcon, there's a nod, as if that places the man securely to who he is, from what little information Jose already had. His lips press together as Alexander finishes, at least, his first salvo. It seems quite clear, since he keeps the bone, he may not be done and so Jose instead studies the man over the brief silence.

<Granuaile> Granuaile turns to smile at Felicity, draping her arm about the Ragabash's shoulders, and returning that little smile at Corey before her attention is once again captured by Alexander. An expression of unease creeps across her face at the mention of war, but it's hard to find fault in anything the Silver Fang says. Especially when those words are rendered with such confidence, in such a commanding tone.

<Clint> Clint stands quietly off to the side while the bones is passed around. Listening to each speaker. When Alexander makes his claim, the massive man simple lifts his arm with a thumbs up held high.

<Valentino> From his place near the wall, squatting down to observe the proceedings of the moot, Valentino arches his brows. He seems almost as shocked as most that the Silverfang just claims Wyrmfoe. Almost. Shaking his head and emitting a soft chuckle, the Uktena mutters low under his breath, "- ." His fingers trace a glyph in the dust of the cavern floor briefly. He glances up again to judge the reactions of others, jawline tight. <Unknown Language>

<Alicia> Alicia doesn't make much of a reaction, perhaps because wyrmfoe is one of the most popular position and claims for it happen all the time. At the very least she didn't have any plans to try and take it.

<Mike> Mike is quiet for the time being, he walks over and hugs Bronwyn as well and he stands with Lucas adn the others. HE quirks a brow up at what he's hearing, still he hasn't spoken, though hearing about, it's time to make a plan or attack, the dark skinned Ragabash shakes his head a little.

<Wovoka Jones> Wovoka Jones glances to Liam, back to Alexander. The anger, the irritation, it fades from his gaze. A change in his attitude, something fading. Instead, he just gives the obnoxious blonde white Captain America looking motherfucker an approving nod. For whatever reason, he's decided that Alexander stepping up and claiming this power is okay with him.

<Silas> Silas makes no attempt to retake the bone. Not until Alexander has finished. Though he maintains a neutral expression through the performance of his duties, his eyes shine with a sharp glint as he listens.

<Lynn> Lynn's small smile remains, although the character gets maybe 30 less smug. She looks at Alexander directly as he speaks. She does not seem to object. What's the worst that could happen?

<Wren> Wren watches, eyes narrowed. Her attention focuses on a few people in turn: the Fang who's staked his claim, the Alpha, the Truthcatcher.

<Lucas> After his short rumble, the tight growl of support for Alexander, Lucas settles and watch, waiting for whatever is next.

<Valentine> It's moments like these, Valentine wishes he had been born a Ragabash Garou as he glances at the finger from Rigby with a deeply amused expression.

<Bronwyn> Bronwyn steps back a little and just fans herself a bit, lots of people in this area, air flow is nice. She continues to watch though, very curious.

<Adeline> Nodding faintly to something whispered by Chazz, Adeline looks from Alexander to Liam and then back to the rest of those gathered to measure their expressions. She sighs softly and simply just sidles up closer against the larger Silverhoof Ahroun's side... letting her arms wrap around him for support.

<Lola> Lola's violet eyes stopped their roving, and for a moment fixed on Silas, linger there for a breath, before quickly continuing their tour of expressions, reactions, taking in new faces, and always making sure she knew the entrances and exits.

<Liam> Liam has no surprise to the declarations of the Silver Fang, of the commanding presence of the only other fighting-shape Athro currently present - sorry Only-Ghosts, you're still much loved. When Dusk looks to him he offers the Master of Challenge a gentle smile, he knows the thoughts of the wolf well enough to guess even before the pack bond tells him all he needs to know. There's a moment of watching the ripple of that claim ride through the Sept before he simply holds his hand out for the Bone to be returned so he can answer.

Once in hand, he nods and speaks, "Your deeds are well known, and your prowess is unquestionable, and your service as the Legend's Wyrmfoe cannot be ignored or denied. That said, something the Urrah must face daily is that the past doesn't wholly define us, we live and die by what's in the now. Every wolf in this room must know who they follow to their death. Our Traditions and our Laws respected, you will, in turn be respected. Your Challenge is accepted. As has been the Challenge to each who came before you, your Challenge is to gather seven or more wolves that will follow you to death, and destroy a great threat to the Sept. In doing so we honor the Litany, you honor us, and in the end I believe the Sept will honor you as our Wyrmfoe."

<Wovoka Jones> Wovoka Jones licks his chops...

<Alexander> "Unless one of your present ranking officers seeks a position unsuited for their talents that best serve in their present roles, there are none of Rank present tonight to challenge my claim," Alexander continues with his grip on that speaking bone. "The Litany does not mandate that a vacant position must be challenged for, and with none presently holding the position, there is none warranted." His gaze is steely, locking eyes with Liam as he offers his response. His words are equally as hard in the undertone, kept up in appearance by the charismatic air he puts into it.

"However, if the wise and honorable Peacekeeper does not feel that my serviceas stated in his own wordsis sufficient enough, I ask that the esteemed Athro Alpha of the Sept of the Smiling Angel," the faint smile on his face wavering just in the slightest, "Measure his challenge for me with swiftness and expedience so that no further time is wasted, and no more Garou lives are lost, while standing on principle." With the biting words dressed up in the faint tones of charm, he then relinquishes the bone back to Silas, keeping his spot, and gaze, towards the front.

<Storms-at-Dusk> Dusk, in turn, offers a human-like nod in response to both Liam and Alexander's words. It seems that his position is with Liam's though, some unspoken conversation having taken place between the two.

<Niall> With Liam's declaration, Niall relaxes a bit and nods. He nods his approval as well. He looks to Alexander as he speaks again.

<Felicity> Felicity mouths a silent oooooh at the declaration of Liam's challenge to Alexander. And when Alexander rebuts, it's nothing short of a miracle that she doesn't start voicing her excited interest in the exchange. This is getting good. She draws in a slightly louder than usual breath, the urge to speak up sufficiently contained - if with effort... and the wheels in her brain are *turning*.

<Mark.> "Make me the first of those seven!" Mark bays, jamming his thumb into his own chest desperately, his eyes wild. As the blood is drying on his face now, it has begun to flake a little as his head rattles with the plea to Liam and Alexander out of turn. His eyes are bloodshot and fierce.

<Corey> Corey's eyes follow to Liam when the Sept Alpha begins to speak. Her head tips as she considers his words, a thoughtful purse to her lips. And then it's back to Alexander, remaining calm and quiet as the two Athro dispute the claim and challenge and rank of Wyrmfoe. Unlike some of the others within the sept, Corey's opinion on the matter will remain fairly inscrutable. But it is clear that she's taking each speaker's words very seriously, with all the gravity they demand.

And, of course, the Philodox remains quiet even after the bone is passed. Felicity, on the other hand, gets a Stern Mama look that she ends up being rescued by when Mark blurts out his out-of-turn volunteering.

STARE.

<Pace> Pace motions to add his lot to the Challenge offered to Alexander without breaking his silence. Though he is curious to see how the exchange will end.

<Jag> Jag's glare at the Cliath at her side is absolutely horrified, at that announcement. Eyes are locked to Mark, the Ragabash's prerogative being allowed, but what a fucking way to *do* it. From the look on her face, Mark may as well have turned around and slapped her.

<Stray Mutt> Stray Mutt is here looking serious and concerned.

<Jose> The only emotion displayed on Jose's face as this 'challenge' continues, is curiosity. Painted all over it, as his eyes move to Liam as he speaks and then back to Alexander. One might even note him pushing a little out of his crouch that forces him to lean a bit forward on his backpack, as if what he is watching has suddenly reached a point of interest that draws you in. He's talking to himself again, but it seems to be his lips moving, under his breath, not daring to voice anything in this current atmosphere. Simply waiting with somewhat baited breath.

<Valentine> He watches Felicity for a moment, a tilt of the head. The old Valentine confused dog look. Before glancing to Corey...and then Mark..." He shakes his head softly and concern at Jag's expression. Valentine huffs softly.

<Lola> Lola's head snaps to Mark, and she jerks a bit involuntarily in response, her eyes wide, and a little wild at the faux paw (lol), only to finally settle from the speaking out of turn and catch sight of the Giant next to her volunteering his name to the list. She draws in a slow breath, and steels herself to see who else is going to add their names to the list, who among her friends will throw themselves into the fray and possible death that comes with it.

<Piper> Piper's Walker-self nods along with Peacekeeper's challenge, that even Urrah must define themselves by their actions now and not rest on laurels of the past. There's an approving nod as well as Alexander urges the challenge be quick. Though Mark's outburst is met with an amused eyebrow raise.

<Chazz> Chazz quietly nods his head as well, a light smile tugging at his lips but he seems pleased with the exchange between the two men. Though when Mark breaks the silence he breaks his gaze, tilting his head towards him and raising an eyebrow.

<Alexander> There's an exchange of looks between the members of the pack of Falcon, though none are verbally spoken, much in the same manner as the two Children up front had communicated through an exchange of looks. Of course, that doesn't stop them from gesturing while they 'speak', the Ragabash Gregory's face excited as his arms swing about, and the blonde Galliard Valeria pointing to each of the Falcons in turn. Morozov, from his distance, keeps his gaunt perpetual-frown focused towards the front.

<Wovoka Jones> Wovoka Jones side-eyes Mark briefly, but not disapprovingly.

<Lynn> Lynn becomes significantly sober at the exchange between Liam and Alexander - mostly Alexander's part - but who asked her? She does look at Mark with a vaguely approving half-grin.

<Lucas> A nod from Lucas to Alexander. The Child of Gaia warrior has already offered to fight with his pack before, he doesnt need to offer it once more. A glance spares to Niall.

<Brandon> Brandon's smile has become less vacant; anger rises, and impatience. But he appreciates the speed at which things are happening, and looks a bit envious of Mark's outburst. There's a pout, as he looks at Lynn beside him. Brandon wants to recklessly volunteer too, but does not.

<Rigby> Rigby makes a jazz-hands-ish gesture, the body language equivalent of 'ohhhh shiiiiiiiit' as Alexander gets huffy at having to do something, and he then puffs on his pipe. More bubbles float around.

<Granuaile> Granuaile manages to keep herself quiet, lips compressed into a line as the exchange between Liam and Alexander strikes her as something of a tense one, and she's clearly wondering how it will play out. Like many others, her attention turns toward Mark and his sudden outburst, but she tries not to react too strongly. After a brief quirk of an eyebrow, she shifts her attention back to Liam and Alexander.

<Mark.> Mark may be pink in the face as much as from anger as embarrassment, but at Jag's glare - actually, a lot of people's glares, he buttons his lip and deflates.

<Nikolai> There is a struggle on Kol face as he listen to Alexander's challenge, there seems to be a desire there, he looks to the rest of the Lion pack for a moment then down to the Kin at his side as he is seriously weighting a heavy choice before him, he looks to Lucas and watches the reaction of his packmate then turns his gaze to Niall to see his reaction.

<Declan> Declan slowly turns his head towards Mark, his eyes getting there first. They smolder a bit with all the judmentalness that the Philodox can muster, but as custom dictates, he stays silent until the bone is passed to him...if it is passed to him. No, instead he shakes his head and then watches to where Silas passes it to next.

<Corey> Corey continues to watch Mark, even as he deflates, and her expression softens into one of sympathy. She gives the sept newcomer an encouraging nod as he shows some proverbial throat. All unspoken, nonverbalized body language. Wolves are good at it. There there, buddy. It's all good.

<Silas> Silas looks from Alexander to Liam with little expression - his eyes merely sharp with attention. He carries the bone as swiftly from one hand to the other. And he places it now in Liam's hand for one final word. Mark's gaze draws a stern glance from the Truthcatcher. While the fool may play some prank before long, the Glasswalker lets the Gnawer Ragabash' outburst pass. This time.

<Felicity> Felicity lets an open hand flop in Silas' general direction, caaaaaaaaaaasually hinting she wants the bone at some point tonight. At the same time, she darts her eyes at Mark - whether approvingly or not, it's hard to tell.

<Bronwyn> Bronwyn lifts her hands to cover her mouth a bit as her eyes go wide when Mark speaks out of turn. She looks at him, worried and even scrunches up her shoulders a bit, trying to become smaller. Realizing what he is volunteering for though she looks at the pack she stands with and then down at the floor, color draining from her face a bit. Liam said follow him to their death, that's a scary scary thought. She wraps her arms around herself a bit and just chews on her bottom lip.

<Jag> Jag lets a breath out at Mark as the lad deflates that way, but then eyes are going to Silas, instead. To see where the bone's passage goes, now that this has happened. .... and maybe to see if there's a couple whacks in the mean time. Mark, after all, gets his as a Ragabash, but others?

<Liam> Liam didn't expect that his words would go unchallenged by the equally ranked wolf. But there is something to be said for the Renown of a Philodox. Honor, Wisdom, while not the Glory of an Ahroun, the Alpha has already demonstrated his ability to decipher the Litany and the laws, moreover he understands the minds of a Sept. He waits patiently for the bone to return one last time, "While none could challenge your Claim, none can speak to your ability to wage War in the City either. You already have the wolves who would follow you, how quickly the Challenge is completed now depends on you. If the Glorious Wings-of-Argent-Fury needs assistance in determining a worthy foe, I'm more than happy to help," his voice backed by an earned and practiced authoritative charm as he smiles warmly to the Ahroun and hands the Bone back to Silas.

<Stray Mutt> Stray Mutt peeks over to Mark. She then lifts her muzzle and looks to Alexender. She doesn't seem to take issue wit his challenge, that many are concerned with what a gnawer mutt thinks!

<Silas> Silas nods to Liam as the bone is relinquished, and the Truthcatcher continues his ritualistic duties, carrying the curved bone to Dante Zimmer.

<Dante Zimmer>Dante Zimmer steps forward, a hand resting on the shoulder of the young man next to him, as he ushers them forward. The young kid doesn't even look like he's 18, let alone a fully-grown adult. African-American, with light skin, and black hair cropped very short, he keeps his eyes forward towards the statue of the Smiling Angel, head lowered and not making eye contact with the numerous people likely looking his way.

Dante, meanwhile, is his usual cheery self, as he accepts the bone from the Truthcatcher Silas. Clearing his throat, he looks up to Liam, "May I present, Colby," gesturing to the young male at his side. "I've recently taken this young man under my wing. Gaia has blessed us with a first change the past month, a Ragabash. After a few weeks of discussion, he's decided to remain in Los Angeles instead of departing for the Western Eye, and Pigeon has welcomed him for the moment. I've taken charge of his education, and our pack will take responsibility for his actions in the coming months."

The young man, meanwhile, only barely lifts his head up, clearly nervous as he lifts a hand in acknowledgement. Seemingly, the best greeting he can offer when under the spotlight of pressure he's feeling.

<Felicity> Felicity makes a frowny face at Liam, pulling her bone-seeking hand back into her lap and shaking her head at Silas. Guess she doesn't need it tonight after all.

<Piper> Piper's Talesinger eyes light up a bit as Dante announces the new cub under his (and Pigeon's) care and she offers the smallest of waves and a wink to Colby's nervous hand raise.

<Jose> Jose's eyes finally filter from the two Athros, to the rest of the crowd, seemingly surprised by the somewhat change of moods. Now his eyes scan most of the individuals present as if to see how they are reacting to all this. Seeming to think, clearly, he has missed something critical. Instead of his lips moving again, they press together tightly, making a thin line, and creasing his forehead as well. Not that he has too much time to ponder whatever he is, as Dante speaks, his attention returns to that with the Bone, as if a sacred thing. Eyes flicker to Colby and for whatever reason, as he raises his hand. Jose does the same, offering a small smile back to the young man. He knows that feeling. Though the moment he realizes he's got his hand up, it immediately shoots back down. Staring briefly at the ground now, and drawing into the dirt.

<Brandon> Brandon, of course, glares at Colby, under 18 or not.

<Granuaile> Granuaile does her best to follow the exchange between Liam and Alexander, though her attention clearly wanders for a moment, the redhead gazing off at nothing. Maybe she's wondering about what would constitute a worthy foe for Alexander to face. She eventually snaps back to attention as the bone is passed to Dante. As the young wolf is introduced, she gives Colby a friendly smile and encouraging upnod before once again focusing on the bone and the next speaker.

<Mark.> Mark seems a little confused to see Colby, blinking a couple of times with a slack face. His bewilderment could stem from anywhere, but certainly it was a curveball after his Rage and reproachment he wasn't expecting.

<Chazz> The introduction of Colby as a freshly changed draws a wide smile to Chazz's lips and he eyes the young man over with an appraising look before raising his hand and giving him a friendly wave as well to try an ease the apprehension he might be feeling.

<Adeline> At the introduction of the recently changed youth, Adeline simply offers him a warm smile from where she stands with Chazz, still silent.

<Lynn> Lynn raises a silent hand towards Colby as if to say 'hey', although he gets more of a firm nod than a smile. He can earn the smile with some Wyrm pelts.

<Jag> Jag looks over toward Colby. For a moment on hearing 'first change', there was a burst of hopeful excitement. It doesn't last long, though. Wrong name. Wrong boy. She still offers him a smile, brief, thin-lopped, and then resuming the hyperfocus on the passage of that bone around the crowd. Virtual ears perked.

<Lucas> Lucas glances to Colby and exhales softly. A hand going briefly to Bronwyn's back and then away as he eyes the young man. He offers him a smile, trying to reasure him some, but these are difficult times.

<Rigby> Rigby gives an expansive gesture, lifting one arm high, fingers low in greeting to Colby, though otherwise keeps quiet, not like that filthy embarrassment Mark!

<Dante Zimmer> Though he's certainly feeling welcomed, the young man is clearly too nervous to speak, to which Dante Zimmer offers a reassuring squeeze of the shoulder. "I'm sure, in time, he'll be proud to announce his success at his Rite of Passage, and rank of Cliath." With that, Dante hands the bone back to Silas.

<Silas> Silas does note the silent requests for the bone as well as those that signal they have changed their mind. But otherwise Dante Zimmer and the newest addition to Pigeon pack hold his attention. He offers the cub, Colby, a faint ghost of a smile as he steps in to retake the bone. His attention flits to Clint, but without expression, the Truthcatcher carries the bone first to Billy.

<Nikolai> Nikolai seems colder then normal, he looks to the youth and gives him a nod of acknowledgement and acceptance before closing his eyes careful and listening to the words being spoken by Dante before looking to Silas.

<Billy> Billy steps up then and looks about, pacing a wide circle as he talks so that he might speak directly to as many as possible while still remaining in the metaphorical spotlight. "We hadn't planned it, but in many ways I come to echo what our Alpha has said. I have been a Guardian of this sept for some time, so many of you know my face even if you do not know me personally. Recently I've seen a growing distance between us, insults, infighting, and ingrates." He works his tongue around in his mouth, behind his lips as he leans his head back for a moment, looking up into the not-sky.

He's looking around then, standing still now and pointing around the room with the bone rather than pacing. "This has caused me to question my own path. What is my purpose here? To be insulted by my tribe-mate? To be witness to those who would connive and provoke rather than cooperate and prepare?" He shakes his head, and it hangs heavier on his neck, "No, I have left my potential untapped and it is time I correct that. I have sought Liam's counsel on this matter, and with his encouragement on this day I officially present myself as a challenger for sept Warder."

He's a mechanic, not an orator, but he knows enough to offer a moment of pause for that to sink in. "I bring no personal agenda to this position, I keep my spite and grudges only for our enemies and seek only to see to the unified defense of the sept. At this time I carry no allegiance except to the sept. I am a salvager and craftsman, and so I will keep our stores stocked. I work and reside in the outer Bawn and am prepared to police it as is appropriate. I know what a Guardian needs to know and am eager to share it with those who would stand for our mutual defense as I have. Further, I spent nearly a decade as a Scout and intend to use that experience to improve on our inter-pack communications." He steps towards Silas, starting to off the bone back when he stops to add, "If there be a better candidate let the challenges make that clear."

<Wovoka Jones> Wovoka Jones looks /very/ pleased.

<Ghostwalker> After performing his duties as Caller of the Wyld, Addison had become a shadow. He was in his typical Moot Regalia that blended modern clothing with the traditional affects of the peoples that the Uktena knew as family. With his sharp oak brown suit and his painted face he'd watched the passing affairs with an austere silence, perhaps utilizing a Ragabash gift or two conciously or unconsciously. When Dante Zimmer steps forward to announce the cub, he does rouse from his silence.

"Welcome, Colby," Addison says, "to Sept of the Smiling Angel and to the Gaou Nation. It is a rare few who choose to earn their first name here, a dangerous choice, but you are welcome, brother of my Auspice Moon." He says to the young one before his eyes find Dante and give him a smile.

<Bronwyn> Bronwyn looks to the young boy who has just recently had his first change. There is excitement but also empathy in her gaze as she watches him. She offers him a soft smile but when Lucas touches her back for a brief moment she looks over to him and her smile softens even more. She then turns her attention back over to the speaker. Hearing Billy is putting his name in for Warder shes miles and tilts her head to the side, curious.

<Clint> Clint moves his way around the edge of the room until he can get in a bit closer to Colby. Not so close to crowd the cub and he waits. As soon as he get's the kit's attention he gives a big thumbs up and silently mouthing 'good luck'. Message of support delivered by goes back to be out of the way.

<Alicia> Alicia looks around as she listens to each of the announcements and challenges. She doesn't have the bone so has nothing to add to it, though she seems fine with how things are going.

<Storms-at-Dusk> In contrast to the challenge made by the senior Garou earlier, Dusk's demeanor is more pointed this time around, lifting his head up, ears and tail alert, as he focuses in on Billy's words. There's a brief glance aside to Liam, before Dusk gives a very human-like nod. <<Your challenge is heard,>> the unspoken words of the lupine to follow alluding to the fact that he expects to hear a few more challenges to this particular spot before the night's end.

<Wren> Wren raises both brows at Billy, and tips her head slightly as she gives him a closer study.

<Lucas> Lucas glances over to Billy, a slight arch of his brow as he considers the man for a few moments. Then a nod and a shrug, seems he has no problem with the offered challenge.

<Jag> Jag looks over toward Billy at that. She raises a hand and folds one finger down, silently. Apparently she's keeping track for.... *something*.

<Brandon> Distance, insults, infighting, and ingratitude: the glare Brandon levelled on Colby turns to Billy, as Brandon looks to see if he is about to be called out. But no, no names are mentioned, and Brandon clearly does not disapprove. It can't be denied: challenges are fun. He makes a small whoooing sound of anticipation and approval.

<Lola> Lola lifts her head as Billy speaks, her head cocking to the side, but a slow grin spreads her lips. She doesn't know the guy, but she knows the process, and this is something to look forward to, to see who emerges into the role.

<Corey> Corey watches Billy with a careful, quiet assessment. A nod is given at his declaration for Warder, and a small, encouraging smile should his gaze meet her own. His message resonates with her, after all. And the message of this Mini-Moot in general. She folds her hands delicately in her lap and patiently waits.

<Granuaile> As the bone is one again passed to a new speaker, Granuaile focuses on Billy, clearly appearing to agree with and relate to much of what the man says. She gives a few approving nods but otherwise says nothing, though she does take a few looks around the Heart, as if expecting a challenge or two to be raised.

<Stray Mutt> Stray Mutt looks to Billy and lifts her muzzle. She seems to approve his challenge.

<Silas> Silas fixes a stern 'look' upon Ghostwalker as the Ragabash Uktena speaks out of turn. Though it is to welcome the Cub, and on this new moon, the Truthcatcher seems inclined towards a measure of lenience for the Ragabash. Just this once. Though a third Ragabash to speak out may find themselves at the end of the night's patience. Taking the bone back, he points his cane at Ghostwalker in warning before handing the bone at last to Clint.

<Piper> Piper nods along as Billy methodically lays out his qualifications for Warder. And another crisp nod as Dusk confirms the challenge is heard. Brandon's whoo, small as it might be, does get the tiniest exhale of a sigh and a slight look.

<Clint> Clint whoops and whistles in supprot for the mechanic's challenge. When his turn, he moves from his spot in the back and takes the bone with a nod and he walks up towards the front. His body shifting and growing rapidly. Bones popping with muscles and conenctive tissues tearing and reforming quickly. From homid to his borth form, crinos is an instant. His clothes all gone except the rope with fetish wrench around his waist. The rest merged into his form. His pink skin has a complete lack of any fur and every inch of his skin is covered in sign symbols in marker. There's a large jagged scar that goes from his left hip, up across his abdomen and chest to his right shoulder. He stands there for a moment and points towards Billy. <<We are looking for more members for a pack. At least one to fill the place left by Atzi. Her ancestors have guided her elsewhere where they believe she is more needed. We are courting rat to be our totem. Instead of dedicating ourselves to a specific territory, we plan to be roving. Helping other packs that could use it and working to keep unclaimed territories within the sept and safe. Inclusing the border between us and Inglewood.>> ANother motion towards Billy with bared teeth in a wolfish grin. <<We'll figure out how things go depending on the results of his challenge.>> He hands the bones back to Silas and shifts back to homid with less ease than to crinos. Letting out a sigh of relief as he walks back towards his out of the way spot.

<Jag> Jag looks over at Clint, giving a nod of approval and acknowledgment to him. For a moment, there's an expression of some excitement. ... then as he continues, it damps down to something more uncertain. Mmn. Still, the nod is approval. Completely.

<Ghostwalker> Addison points a glare at Clint as if Clint had done something far worse than give Colby a double thumbs up. It doesn't sit long, however. As Billy steps up to offer Challenge he gives the other Uktena, an Ahroun of his Tribe. Billy gets a nod of approval, though there's a stern look behind it before he glances off to the Silver Fangs who joined them tonight. The pointed stare lingers, before it fades into a tired glance towards the Truthcatcher's cane.

<Stray Mutt> Stray looks over to Clint as he speaks, seeming supportive of the bald giant.

<Mark.> Since he's never had the pleasure, Mark, who is still somewhere between smoldering and fuming but not quite steam coming out of his ears, looks on at Billy's challenge with a distinct lack of comprehension. But when Clint transforms, he seems a little shocked to see his Crinos form - when he'd never laid eyes on. He blinks a couple of times and winces, but ends up nodding his head - name a Gnawer who wouldn't be happy to see a Rat pack around the Sept, if you can.

<Jose> The next speaker gets Jose to look up again from running his finger through the dirt. He doesn't know Billy, like so many others he has yet to meet, so it brings little more reaction, than the curiosity he tosses around the cavern again at the rest of the faces, as if to draw off them. The same follows for CLint, though he has seen the big Metis before. Jose is just doing his best at absorbing and soaking everything in, as he often does. Learning his new home, one might say.

<Silas> Silas stands by without expression as Clint speaks. He casts a narrowed gaze off in the direction of Bradon's small whoo. And as he carries the bone through to Jag, he gives at least one set of shins a light rap with his cane to silence murmurings in the crowd.

<Clint> Clint looks back to Addison with an arched brow. Points to the raggie then to himself. Flaps his hand like it's talking and points towards the exit. His hand flips over and his two fingers wiggle like they're walking. Then turns back away to watch the passing of the bone.

<Chazz> Chazz regards each person who speaks with the same attentive gaze and listening ears. He really doesn't show any sort of emotion at this time.

<Wovoka Jones> Wovoka Jones fails to completely suppress a grin at all that.

<Jag> The bone arrives in Jag's hand to be held up for visibility's sake. "I am Beyond-The-Pale-The-World-Lies-Waiting, Jag Kaur to the humans, Fostern Theurge of the Bone Gnawers, and Zedakh of Raccoon's Pack," she speaks aloud, to be heard by the Sept around her. "It is with heavy heart that I report the death of A-Cracked-Desert-Sundered, Cliath Ahroun of the Silent Striders. He was killed by the Spirals of Inglewood, his corpse left as a message by one of them during a Rite Of Accomplishment. My pack and others are looking more into the details, but I suspect that we will find the same as many here. That he was killed and brought as a message. One which has caused the two remaining Anruth of FDR to leave their territory for safer lands." The look on Jag's face as she reports those is nothing but anger and pain. Liam has already said more than enough about the majority of that subject. It's just... her turn to make the point known. To drive it home. Because like so many packs here, she's feeling that 'poked wall'.

Just yet, Jag isn't giving the bone up, though she does lower it, in respect to any noises of dismay that are made. It also gives her a moment to fight back a couple of tears, since she's apparently not done her statements.

<Mark.> That would explain Mark's thirst for blood and generally more-than-usual shitty attitude, and outburst earlier.

<Lola> At the news her eyes don't go to Jag, but to Mark, watching him without flinching for a long moment as puzzle pieces fall into place, her lips pursing.

<Nikolai> Nikolai lowers his head as a sign of respect to the one who is loss in this moment, a loss of any Garou is a terrible moment for the community.

<Brandon> Brandon looks appropriately chastised as both Piper and Silas give him the business for even his little whoo. His lips twitch, and he stares down. Nothing said afterwards causes him to raise his eyes, but his fists ball hollowly at the news Jag presents. His breath comes shallowly, not sad but furious.

<Valentine> Valentine's tongue runs against the tip of a canine as he considers the words Jag says and then glances to Mark. He slips back along the wall towards the exit pausing to grab his duffel bag and loop the fine, expensive bow over his neck. He doesn't leave though, just maintains his position near the exit, in preparation to take off perhaps.

<Corey> Corey's expression darkens significantly at the mention of another death of a sept-mate at the hands of the Spiral Dancers. Her eyes turn to Mark and Jag for a moment, and while the Child of Gaia might normally offer sympathy, she offers something else in this moment.

Rage.

Her eyes turn to Alexander and hold for a long, contemplative moment. And only after some time has passed does she turn to look back at Jag and the Talking Bone.

<Mark.> In the interim, Mark puts a fierce hand on Jag's shoulder as he rises up from his crouched position, swallowing in his own throat, with a pronounced vein next to his jugular bulging as he keeps his anger stuffed down too.

<Granuaile> While she wrangles with a bit of shock as Clint shifts to Crinos, Granuaile relaxes into a smile as the big man declares the intention to form a roving pack. Another nod of approval is given, before she turns to Jag, favoring her fellow Theurge with another warm smile that fails her as the Gnawer begins to speak. Before long, she's frowning and looking down at her feet, tears welling in her eyes in response to the news of a message being sent through the murder of a Garou.

<Bronwyn> Bronwyn looks down, a frown showing on her lips as the death is announced to the sept. Sadness sweeps over her but she stands silent, prepared for it. She hugs herself and just stays quiet, eyes fixed on the floor.

<Lynn> Lynn bows her head deep at the report of the death.

<Lucas> Lucas rumbles softly as word of another death is given. He doesnt say a word. Eyes scan the room, settle briefly on the Silver Fang 'Wyrmfoe' then to his own pack. Eventually however his gaze returns to Jag.

<Pace> Pace hmms once more. It's his favorite form of communication. A glance to Lola and he nudges her, lofting a brow, then looking back to the gathering.

<Stray Mutt> Stray Mutt seems trouble and she even lets out a mournful troubled howl.

<Piper> News of any Garou death doesn't sit easy, and Piper's clutching her own fists in practically a mirror of Brandon at the news of the Strider's murder by Inglewood Hive. The Galliard's jaw set, determined.

<Alexander> Alexander's eyes close, not at the mention of Runihura's death, but once Jag makes it known that the two Anruth Gnawers of Florence-Graham have retreated from the Protectorate. A slow breath inward, a slow exhale outward, and then his eyes open. There's a moment where the Silver Fang considers Liam, gauging his reaction to the loss being larger than expected. But, the ultra-traditionalist doesn't offer any words in the moment. A quiet accounting of those who turn his way being taken into stock by his packmates who linger towards the back of the gathering.

<Wren> Wren's expression tightens, her jaw working for a moment. No one likely to see the way she practically vibrates with tension, hands clenched in the shadows of her sleeves.

<Jose> Jose lowers his head as well, he doesn't know the dead Garou, but he pays his respect nonetheless. A sad look on his face, head lowered as his fingers idly pick and poke at a stitch on his backpack.

<Alicia> Alicia shakes her head slightly. They kept losing too many people, though everyone also knew how dangerous the lands were. Such news seems to come at everyone moot these days and probably wont stop in the future.

<Silas> Silas closes his eyes with the announcement of yet another Septmate lost. Their wanderer. Head bowed, he makes no move to take back the bone - allowing the Bone Gnawer the right to speak as the Sept Alpha himself.

<Declan> Declan might have reacted differently if he hadn't already heard the news earlier in the day about the death of the Garou. He lets out a quiet deep breath and shakes his head, waiting on the next topic of non-discussion to be passed to. There was a visual reaction to Clint's news, but it didn't look like he was angry or anything, but there was a raction.

<Chazz> In a rare moment there is but a glint of anger in Chazz's face as his brows furrow and forehead creases as he hears of the death once again. He folds those massive arms of his across his chest tightly once more, and shifts his leaned position on the wall to the side.

<Liam> Liam knew the news of the fallen, and it still manages to hang on his shoulders, another invisible weight. FDR retreating means the South is folding further, not good. A frown comes and he makes mental notes to adjust things on the map. More than that though, there is an anger that builds as the surfer zen is being tested this lifetime. There are already mental calculations on how to respond, what can be done. He remains quiet though, respect for the traditions as Moot carries on.

<Clint> Clint's head tilts to the side a bit while he listens to Jag. There's no outwards reaction from the massive man at Runi's death. But as she speaks of the other wolves leaving FDR the corners of his mouth fall and he lets out a heavy breath with a shakes of his head and he turns away.

<Ghostwalker> Addison looks directly at Clint. He points to the Theurge with two fingers, lifts his hands to his mouth, makes a circle with his thumb and first finger and mimes moving it back and fourth as if to suggest trying to swallow something extremely large. Then he makes a face to suggest choking on it.

He manages to do all this before Jag announces the death of a packmate. The Ragabash's demeanor shifts, then to a more solemn look. He doesn't cut out of line to share words, but he does give Jag a look of sincere grief.

<Lola> Lola nudges Pace back slightly, but her lips are a grim frown, another is lost. Every. Week. Her eyes rove over the crowd of people, and wonders how many are going to meet the same fate over the coming weeks and months, and her lower lip juts at with an expression trapped between anger and frustration.

<Jag> Jag reaches her hand to set on Mark's hand in return, then slips free to be able to wipe angrily at her eyes and again grips the bone in her hand to raise it back up. It feels... strange to be saying this now, after the last announcement. But still, The Bone is The Bone this way: "Dante Zimmer once told me that he would only allow someone to challenge who had the correct viewpoint of the Bawn and its needs. Who felt the pulse of Gaia." Jag turns, arms out in the classic 'Come at me, Bro!' toward Dante. Someone has been hanging around entirely too many Ahrouns lately, and has picked up that apparently, *this* pose is what the human-born use for a challenge. "Well then. Test me!" she says to the man, firing those words off at him with confidence and direct, forward energy. And then, lips curl into a toothless smile his way. Half-daring, maybe, but also genuinely expectant. Anticipating. Not as... happy as it could be, for obvious reasons. But still. "I challenge for Keeper Of The Land!" Eyes are cast toward Storms-At-Dusk at that, as well, of course, but most of her attention is to the present holder of the position.

<Valentine> Valentine blinks at the next part and opens his mouth, closes it and reaches up a hand to rub the back of his neck with a tilt of the head. A brow ticks and a flash of that easy grin, before it settles back to neutrality. The mix of death and the challenge creating a odd...dichotomy inside him.

<Stray Mutt> Stray Mutt pads over to Mark and attempts to gently head butt him in an attempt at showing comfort or something who knows? Ahroun canine attempt at such maybe.

<Mark.> Mark claps Jag on the back in support, then takes a knee and pats Petals on her side to commiserate in miserable comfort. Somehow, she'd always showed up to do that when he was at his lowest.

<Pace> Pace opens his mouth, then shuts it, turning a disbelieving look towards Lola. He starts to say something again, then settles for a big breath in through his nose and out through his mouth.

<Dante Zimmer> Dante Zimmer does looks only a little surprised that his position is being challenged, though, it's far from any disapproval being shown. Rather, he almost seemed to be expecting this one from the subordinate Keeper in particular. He'll wave off the bone, only taking the offering of a response to briefly state. "I welcome the challenge, and look forward to its resolution strengthening our Sept," a quiet nod offered in the direction of the Master of Challenges. Certainly, with his earlier announcements, he has his attention being pulled elsewhere these nights.

<Brandon> Brandon rears his head at Addison's mimetic display. His sucks air in through his teeth: it is gross, and he does not like it, and it contributes to his increasingly foul mood. He ignores Jag's challenge, too angry to care.

<Wovoka Jones> Wovoka Jones blinks at Jag's exclamation, brow furrowed. His lips tighten in to a pursed moue of confusion.

<Piper> Piper looks quite confused (and maybe some bystander whiplash) as Jag goes from announcing death of a packmate to then confidently literally posing as she issues a challenge.

<Lucas> Lucas furrows his brow, ahint of confusion on his festires but he doesnt protest he soesnr speak up, he simply watches.

<Stray Mutt> Petal isn't talking. She doesn't have the bone after all. She looks to Jag at her challenge and lifts her muzzle and seems to support such. She then brushes to Mark and seems to be trying to silently show support as he lost well a friend she thinks, maybe a pack mate.

<Ghostwalker> Ghostwalker's look shifts when Jag shifts from mourning to Challenge. He stares for a second and then straightens his posture, with a determined look in his eyes it's clear he wants the bone. Hand is held waiting to accept it...

<Jag> Jag returns the bone off again, expression falling again to something a lot more... unreadable as she looks at Mark. A nod at his approval, though she still gives her face a rub. Apparently, the whiplash not exactly *her* forte, either. A look is taken at Wovoka at that. And the honest apology shows before she closes her eyes and looks away in ... shame?

<Nikolai> Even Kol get stunned by the emotional shift of the Bone Gnawer, clearly the timing seem odd to say the least, he gives Jag this look as if this was just a wierd timing thing, but doesn't seem, just stare in a dumbfounded expression of huh.

<Lola> Lola watched Addison's gesticulations, but he didn't keep her attention for long, soon her eyes were on Jag, and she cants her head like a confused puppy, trying to process what she's seeing. Bewildered by some of the displays tonight, and reigning it in with a deep breath, only to see Pace, about to say something! Her eyes widen in fear of the fate of his shins, which would be easy for a corrective cane to find, but the moment resolves in a deep breath and she takes one of her own, to settle herself in turn.

<Clint> Clint turns back as Jag speaks again. His brows push together as it goes from the loss of the garou in FDR and a pack member to a challenge. He places a hand over his face and lets out a heavy breath while shaking his head.

<Granuaile> Taking a moment to wipe her eyes as the tone suddenly shifts, Granuaile's gaze ping-pongs between Jag and Dante as the challenge is offered and accepted. Nodding, she seems to agree with Dante's hope of the Sept being strengthened by the challenge and its outcome. And once again, her eyes follow the bone.

<Lynn> Lynn's brow furrows, which looks kind of bizarre given her eyebrow scar, but it's mostly a trigger for her to put her hands back into her jacket pockets. She glances at Dante, but he's accepting, so all seems to be rolling along.

<Stray Mutt> Petal still seems to be trying to comfort Mark more than she focues on challenges, maybe Unicorn is rubbng off on her?

<Silas> Silas recieves the bone bag from Jag with a small nod of condolence and respect. The Truthcatcher casts his gaze across the gathering to see whether there are any further Fosterns seeking to speak before he carries it on to the Cliaths. He's about to do so when he notices Ghostwalker seeking to speak. And he places it first in the Adren's hand.

<Bronwyn> Bronwyn just looks up at the challenge after the announcement of the loss. She blinks a few times, confusion on her face but she lets her gaze shift to the other's in the room before settling on her group for a moment.

<Mark.> Appreciative of Petals, Mark gives her one final pat on the side, one of gratitude, and stands up fully next to Jag and Rigby, clenching his fists again. He'd seen too many losses and deaths to be comforted without commensurate blood and death in kind.

<Declan> Declan grimaces at Jag's challenge, lookin from her to Dante and then back. He shifts his stance as if he's irritated, or trying to figure something out, and his hands go from his hips, to the more closed-off homid body language of crossing his arms. He drops his gaze to the ground, deciding he doesn't know where to look right now.

<Rigby> Rigby is the more reserved of Raccoon's ragabashes and his flat stare continues, unfocused, head tilted as he listens to everything, and kind of warning people not to play a game of poker with him.

<Stray Mutt> Petal lifts her muzzle to Mark. She looks at him briefly. Her amber-brown canine eyes are kind. She then pads over to val and brushes by him in greeting. She continues to the unicorn peeps those not running the moot, Chazz an Adeline.

<Jose> The news of the death followed by that of the challenge makes Jose look back up from his moment of silence for respects, but his demeanor doesn?t show much, maybe unsure what to make of it. Dante speaking and accepting it seems to be a good sign and the Hispanic man nods to himself.

<Valentine> Valentine is still jabbing at his canine with a tip of the tongue and considering Jag when He spots the familiar Lupus form of Piper. He starts to sign, using ASL...not that he assumes Piper knows it...just habit. But then he remembers the last moot he was present for. He got in trouble for ASL...as it counts as talking...so he just offers a brief bright grin.

<Ghostwalker>Ghostwalker takes the Bone in hand and levels his gaze on Jag. "If you, the one who claims to be not only Not-of-this-Land but Not-of-this-World, would stand beside me a my colleague as Keeper of the Land, both of us in in the service of Mistress of the Rite Worlds-Within-Her-rhya, then come and be tested. I will put you through the paces, for if you cannot best me, Beyond-the-Pale, then you have not a shred of hope in besting Four-Left-Feet."

With the Bone gripped tight in hand, the Caller of the Wyld takes a deep breath. His brow is set like a boxer about to step into the ring as he casts a look to Dante and then up to the Master of the Challenge Storms-at-Dusk. Having spoken his piece, he waits with bone in hand.

<Chazz> Chazz reaches down when Petal approaches and gives her some scritches behind the ear, and the smile he beams down to her suggests he is happy to have her alongside him and Adeline as he silently and attentively watches.

<Mike> He looks towards teh gathered and he blinks a few times as he looks to Jag and upon hearing the loss and now a challenge. His eyes narrow slightly as he looks towards Jag.

You sense Ghostwalker might be a little protective of his City Farmer friend... but there's also probably more to this than his care for Dante. Something that goes beyond any sort of personal misgivings he may harbor towards Jag.

<Valentino> When the Stray Mutt comes over to him, Valentino places his hand on her head, giving it a little rub. He continues to listen as the others around him are going back and forth, but the Uktena remains silent. He does ruffle the stray mutt's fur a little, but then he turns his focus back on the moot and challenges being issued.

<Storms-at-Dusk> Dusk's expression is somewhat mysterious, veiled behind the rather stoic form he holds in lupus form, though his tail and ears certainly perk at the idea of a challenge to the Keeper of the Land, and then Addison's subsequent challenge towards Jag. A look aside to Addison for a moment, before turning back towards Jag, and Dante Zimmer. <<Your challenge is heard. As Four-Left-Feet holds the position being challenged, the terms of the challenge are his to set. The outcome can be brought to me for arbitration, or presented at the next Moot.>>

<Jag> Jag has already relinquished the bone, and her eyes are turned to Dante as the man accepts the challenge. She smiles at him, nodding at Dante Zimmer warmly and accepting that acceptance of her challenge. Jag's attention goes more serious once more, scanning the crowd's reactions silently. Eyes, again, fall to Storms-At-Dusk as she nods at him wordlessly. Expected, of course.

<Stray Mutt> Petal looks to Valentine and lifts her tail and ears. She might remember him and she seems happily surprised to see him. She sniffs to get his scent, but the hound doesn't seem to know sign language. She then sits on her haunches not far from Chazz and Adeline. She subtly sneaky sniffs Adeline as if hoping stealthy wise for foods.

<Mark.> Mark seems a little tripped up on what just happened and leans back to whisper to Rigby, his senior.

<Silas> Silas looks from Ghostwalker to Storms-at-Dusk with neutral reserve. And once the Truthcatcher has ensured that his alpha said all that he has left to say, he carries the bone at last to the Cliath, starting first with Corey.

<Valentine> Valentine Nash takes a final breath and turns finally to exit. Probably a good guess where he's gonna end up tonight. But he's had it for public appearances for now. A wee overwhelming.

<Corey> Corey steps forward to take the bone from Silas. She does so with a subtle bow of her head and tip of her head to the side, exposing some of her slender neck in deferment. When it's her turn to speak, she does so with Felicity at her side and turns to address the sept at large. When she speaks, she uses her Philodox voice. Strong, clear, and loud. Not Galliard loud, but you get it.

"Three months ago, Felicity's path and my own crossed in circumstance too fortunate to be coincidence. I was on a very... personal mission to find a home for spirits we had cleansed, and she sought to bring life back to the Los Angeles river. I gained a friend that day, but I wouldn't know it until some time later that I also gained a sister," Corey says calmly. She turns to look at Felicity and, for a moment, that young woman comes to the surface. She bumps her arm against Felicity's and turns back.

Today, we come to announce our intention to form our pack before the eyes of the sept. It is our intention to seek out and appeal to the Spirit of Old Oak. Their powerful ability to heal and to cleanse will see us spill blood only when necessary, and their ask of us to restore and protect green spaces resonates with us all," Corey says, and gestures to Felicity, Granuaile, and to Kelli as well. "There will be ample opportunity to earn Wisdom, Honor, and Glory for those who wish to join us. There is wisdom in saving those souls who might otherwise be lost, honor in defending our city in the real and in the umbra from blight and decay, and Glory to putting down those that might get in our way."

<Ghostwalker> Ghostwalker offers the Bone back to Silas without quarrel, having spoken his piece.

<Corey> Corey looks towards Felicity for a moment, nips her bottom lip, and turns to address the sept again. "We also come before the sept to declare the area of the Los Angeles River, spanning the Warehouse District, to Elysian Park, to be the territory of our pack. We will clean it. Heal it. And defend it. We will also come heal, clean, and defend any park or nature reserve in this city. This goal is a lofty one, and we are young. We acknowledge this, which is why we do not defend these spaces alone. Falcon's Talons has already offered aid for those who would harm these spaces, and I know our friends in the sept will do so as well."

Corey's jaw tightens, her body language shifting into something less formal and more... animalistic. Even her face contorts somewhat, lips peeling back from her teeth when she speaks again. She looks to Jag first, and then to Mark. Finally, she looks to Alexander. "Vengeance, while not ignoble, can be a... flawed pursuit. It clouds one's judgment with... noise. Justice, however," Corey says, and her lips peel back. She swallows. "You'll have my claws and my fangs at your side for the Challenge. Let's make sure it's this Sept be the one who sends the next fucking message."

With that, Corey turns to hand the bone back to Silas, and returns to her seat, body still bristling, but tucking up against both Granuaile and Felicity in order to seek some comfort.

<Jag> Jag settles back with her pack, preparing to settle into brooding again. An exhale, looking at the pair, though politely pretending not to notice the whispers (Ragabash and all). Until Corey gets the bone and makes that comment, and Jag struggles not to split into an even bigger smile again. The back of her hand gives a sharp wipe against her eye again.

Although the comment from Corey gets another exhale, shoulders rolling in a troubled look. She looks at Mark, not disapproving this time, but... sad. And away to Corey again. Then the rest of the way away from both of them, troubled.

<Valentino> Hearing the words spoken by Corey, there is a small nod from the Uktena. Valentino rises from his squatting positition and has to stretch his legs a moment cause that was a damn long time. Then he makes it known he wishes to have the bone with a small nod toward Silas when others have spoken.

<Rigby> Rigby lowers his head, speaking almost inaudibly for Mark's ear to reply to what was asked, and then glances toward Corey speaking when she makes the round to talk to specific peoples.

<Silas> Silas nods to Corey, and the Truthcatcher is about to carry the bone to the next Cliath seeking to speak when Valentino makes known his desire to speak. With a nod, he offers it to the Uktena Fostern.

<Jose> Jose seems a bit gone, he remains unmoving save for fingers, idly picking at a thread he has somehow loosed from picking at the stitch on his backpack. But he doesn't look up as the business with the challenge is dealt with. It's not until Corey speaks, and not even that tears him away from busily plucking at that ever loosening thread, still he does pause and rise from it to consider Corey with her second set of words. Maybe, simply due to the dichotomy of both things, it's what draws the curious expression from him. She hands the bone back and his gaze falls back to his bag and that thread, which instead of playing with more, he tucks underneath to try to contain it for now or to put it out of sight. His gaze falling finally on the Angel that watches over this cavern, eyes studying it's structure, as once more he seems to talk to himself again.

<Mark.> Mark finishes up whatever whispering he was doing with Rigby, and separates from the much more composed Ragabash. He trades a look back with Jag - his gaze sad but mostly just stoked with the Rage that he wanted to feel. Ugly. He takes that same look and marches over to Corey, after she's handed the bone away, stomping forward towards her and standing before her. He reaches out and snatches her by the forearm, gripping it in fierce solidarity. Everything she'd said just now had meant something to him and he meant to show it back with quiet, but fierce vehemence.

<Brandon> Brandon doesn't like Corey, and he honestly doesn't like parks, or rivers, and he _does_ like vengeance, so his anger only increases as he listens to Corey's announcement about creating a pack. But he also likes impetuousness, and grand announcements, and sending a message. The conclusion of her message gets his sharp approval.

<Valentino> Once he has the bone, Val-O speaks up, "Old Oak is a great choice for totem, little sister." His attention is directed to Corey and by that her prospective pack as well. "Old Oak has powerful medicine for healing and cleansing. I respect that you choose him and I would be honored to perform the Rite of Totem if you do not have somebody who can perform it." claims the Theurge with a bow of his head to them. When he lifts his head Valentino adds, "Or teach it if one wishes to learn." That said he hands the bone back to Silas and steps back.

<Wren> Wren keeps her breathing slow and controlled, her posture still hard with tension. She watches every speaker, every word.

<Corey> Corey tips her head curiously at Mark, and then turns her head down when her arm is grasped in solidarity. The CoGgie does CoGgie things, and reaches out to wrap both of her arms around the man in a warm, apologetic hug. It communicates more than words could.

'I'm sorry,' it says. 'And we're going to flay those fuckers alive.'

<Granuaile> As the bone is handed off to Corey, Granuaile fixes one of those megawatt smiles of hers on the Philodox, even going as far to pump a fist encouragingly, though she doesn't raise her hand above her shoulder. The gesture is somewhat restrained, probably because she'd give a full-throated whoop otherwise. As it stands, she just manages to contain her excitement, though there are once again tears in her eyes. This time, they're tears of pride. Pride in her unoffical packmate and their mission to cleanse and heal the River.

The words about vengeance cause the redhead's eyes to trace between Jag, Mark, and Alexander, and she tilts her head, adopting a thoughtful expression, but as Corey speaks and seeks comfort from Felicity and herself, the tall Coggie Theurge is all too happy to wrap Corey in a warm hug, leaning in to whisper a few soft words of approval. As Valentino speaks up in support of Corey and Old Oak, she turns to give the man a nod of gratification.

<Jag> Jag at first looks over to Valentino with a look that is abject *horror* when he comments to Corey that he'd perform it for them. It's everything she can do to keep her jaw locked around that offense that's being offered.

<Clint> Clint lets out a loud whistle and a whoop for Corey and her pack announcement.

<Silas> Silas accepts back the curved bone from Valentino. The Truthcatcher casts one last gaze across the gathering before carrying it on to Cliath, delivering it into Declan's hands. He notes Alicia with a glance, indicating that she is next.

<Ghostwalker> Ghostwalker grimaces about something, his lips pulling taut over his teeth. He doesn't ask for the Bone back, however.

<Mark.> Patting Corey on the back after a few moments of their exchange, Mark disentangles and returns to his place at the Caern next to Rigby and Jag.

<Declan> With a tight exhalation of breath, Declan moves to speak again to the Sept, this time with the bone that Silas passes to him. "I spoke previously about my desire and intention to form a pack. Since then, I have found two who have decided to go into this venture with me, though we have not made a formal declaration as a group. I am coming to you all now to once again make the announcement and request that others join our cause. I had not intended on achieving a blessed pack, but if it is Gaia's will...I am looking for an Ahroun and a Ragabase to round out our number. We will seek out Crow as our totem, and work to defend the northern bawn, claim the Historic Core as our territory, and like Clint, offer our support to other packs as needed." He starts to end it there, but adds: "And with pack membership comes the option to work for Angels' Own in whatever role you see fit. I own it, so I can dictate who we hire. It is not a requirement for joining our pack, but is an opportunity for mundane employment if you so seek it." That said, he nods his head and hands the bone back to Silas.

<Stray Mutt> Petal looks to Corey as she speaks of a pack and lifts her muzzle with approval. She then looks to Val, seeming to approve of his offer too.

<Silas> Silas gives a subtle nod as he recieves back the bone. As with each speaker, time stretches between each one as the Truthcatcher moves with no attempt at haste from one to the other. At last, he delivers the bone to Alicia.

<Alicia> Alicia accept the bone and stands up before everyone and looks around as she speaks with confidence. "On this night of the new moon I realize it is time to fill a position that has long since been vacant, ever since His-Name-Not-Remembered passed from this world. For too long we have suffered from a lack of intelligence gathering. We never know where the enemy will strike, and we get caught unaware. We can never find their weaknesses and grope in the darkness. This must change! So I stand before you all and I challenge for the position of Spymaster!" She looks around once more, then thrusts the bone to the sky. "Let the darkness of the new moon hide us, and the brightness of the full moon reveal all before our eyes!" She hands the bone back.

<Pace> Pace has been listening, but his brain crashes to an abrupt halt. Spymaster? Confusion on his face and once more looking to others to see if this might be unique to the Sept.

<Storms-at-Dusk> Dusk is well-versed in the traditions of the Nation and the Sept, and that declaration from Alicia has him tilting his head in confusion, looking up to Liam as if he might've missed something in a recent meeting. Before the Alpha responds, Dusk looks towards the Ragabash and responds, <<There is no such position,>> unable to even come up with the High Tongue words to represent the unfamiliar concept.

<Liam> Liam blinks slowly at this latest Challenge, the others until now at least somewhat within the realm of something he knew. Glancing back to Dusk this time. Oh, he's looking up at Liam with the same look. Well.

<Corey> Corey slow nods towards Alicia with pursed lips and squinted eyes. Right... right. Spymaster...

<Rigby> Rigby's body language supplies only one response. <<That you know of. The council will meet.>>

<Silas> Silas arches a brow at Alicia as the Ragabash declares a challenge for... Spymaster. He casts a glance from Liam to Storms-at-Dusk, wearing an expression that mirrors each of theirs.

<Brandon> Brandon looks levelly out at Declan's declaration of forming a pack for defence; his arms cross, his positions on defence are well-known if not well-appreciated. Alicia, though, gets his full support. There is a brief look of confusion as he also fails to remember who His-Name-Not-Remembered is, then he claps his hands, once, and points at her. He's buying it. Spymaster sounds awesome.

<Jag> Jag looks more than a little confused at Alicia. And then even *more* confused once Rigby makes the comment. Her mouth opens. She remembers that there's a bone being passed around. Her mouth closes. Her *eyes* just ask the question of Rigby silently, then.

<Piper> After Declan's announcement, Piper makes a little signal to Silas asking the bone be sent her way. Alicia's declaration has her blinking in surprise until Dusk confirms that such a position doesn't exist.

<Lynn> Lynn frowns in thought, then looks off to the side, then glances towards Piper, then sort of shrugs one shoulder and looks towards Alicia expectantly.

<Lola> Lola's brows tug together, and she looks from Liam, to Storms-at-Dusk, to Silas, and then around to others. There is of course the problem with....the position not existing is exactly how a spymaster would want things to go! Leaving Lola in a limbo on if it was real and just hush hush, or truly one that didn't exist. She looks up to Pace to see if there's recognition or confusion on riding over his features.

<Chazz> Chazz raises a faint eyebrow at the challenge and then shifts on his position againt the wall. He appears content for now to just watch the others from his spot on the wall.

<Granuaile> Declan's announcement is met with similar exuberance as Corey's had been, and Granuaile continues following the path the bone takes to its next speaker. Alicia's mention of a challenge for Spymaster elicits a quizzical tilting of her head. She blinks a few times, as that doesn't sound like a traditional position. If nothing else, it's not one she's heard of. But still, there's something in her expression that seems to suggest that, maybe, a formalized position specifically for intelligence gathering is a good idea. In her head, at least.

<Silas> Having recieved the bone back, Silas offers Alicia a simple nod. He is about to carry it to the next Cliath when he catches Piper's indication. And he delivers it first to her hand.

<Alicia> Alicia already gave the bone back, so can't answer any questions but also no questions were asked. She seems completely unphased by any of the reactions from the people though. Of course the spymaster needs to be cool and not let anything slip.

<Ghostwalker> Ghostwalker's grimace fades, smiling softly about something else.

<Piper> Piper gives a polite bow of her head towards Silas as the Truthcatcher delivers the bone, but with her words she turns not towards Alicia's declaration. It's Declan she faces. "Congratulations on your steps towards forming a pack, though claiming //all// of the Historic Core as territory seems ambitious. Territory is something to be respected, but that is because it comes with a great deal of responsibility and comes with a great deal of work. The Historic Core is uniquely situated, close to the outer Bawn but also right on the front lines of the Weaver Blight that is the Financial District, where more Threats have been coming to attack us. Are you claiming protection of the //entire// Historic Core? Or just the area around your building, the Bradbury? It is a very dense neighborhood where several of our tribe already call home outside of the Bradbury and your pack."

<River> River makes his way into the Heart. Things are well into the proceedings, and so he does his best to avoid making a splash arrival, moving quietly through, with hands tucked into the pockets of his worn, canvas jacket, fraying jeans, and peeling silkscreen shirt. He moves to slip his way toward any packmates he has in attendance, if he can find them.

<Brandon> Brandon has not given this issue any thought when Declan brought it up himself, but he is of course immediately in support of Piper's point. He piles on, lifting his chin, snorting derision.

<Declan> Declan doesn't have the bone, so doesn't respond to Piper verbally, but he does bow his head a little to show he understands. He makes a hand motion to indicate it can all be discussed further down the road. It's like a twist of the hand and then spreading two hands apart. Territory is a tricky business in the city, and not one Declan takes lightly.

<Piper> Piper's point stated, she's quick to hand the bone back to Silas.

<Silas> Silas recieves back the bone from Piper. He casts a glance off towards Eclan, but with his silent indications, he nods. The Truthcatcher then carries the bone to the last speaker of the night - Gabe.

<River> River passes through those present and watches the scene unfolding, glimpsed from over heads and shoulders. His dark eyes move from Piper and Brandon to Declan and back again. With the matter seemingly settled for the moment - or tabled - he ultimately finds his way toward Wovoka, whatever he may be doing.

(Gabe) When he is called upon, Gabe 'Blends-With-Shadows' Cox emerges from where he is hiding in the shadows and makes his way up to the preverbal soapbox.

"A lot of you know me. Some likely better than others. You know what kind of guy I am, and what I take seriously...and what I don't. One thing that I hope has been abundantly clear is that I take the protection of our home, our Caern, as seriously as I take my commitment to my mate, and our up-in-coming child. I've been a Guardian since I arrived in this Sept. I followed Clint under his tenure as Warder, and regardless if there is a Guardian pack at the moment or not I am out patrolling the perimeter of the Bawn nightly. It's with that commitment that I officially challenge for the position of Warder."

He shrugs, looking around the faces of the Garou and Kin in the meeting area. "I guess that's that. So...yeah." Gabe gives a brief smile, then goes to retake his seat without looking up, blending back into the shadows from where he manifested from.

<Jag> Jag looks down at her hand, folds a second finger down. Looks at the two fingers and gives a silent 'huh' to herself as much as anything. But still, she looks up, nodding toward Gabe... or toward the shadows that *were* Gabe, anyhow.

<Chazz> Chazz emits a pleased smile with that announcement, and slowly cants his head to nod at Gabe with approval on his way back to where he is standing. Then he returns to being a silent wallflower next to Adeline.

<Clint> Clint whoops and whistles at Gabe and his announcement. The huge man looks at Billy then Gabe. Back and forth a few times with a wide smile and a thumbs up for each.

<Brandon> Brandon, similarly, looks back and forth between the two Warder challenges. He looks at Gabe very, very skeptically.

<Storms-at-Dusk> <<Your challenge is heard,>> Dusk offers back to the sneaky Ragabash, then looking to address everyone else as the bone doesn't seem to be winding up in any more hands tonight. <<Will speak with the Warder challengers later, after I speak with Peacekeeper-rhya.>> That's the extent he has to offer now, a glance towards Dante and Jag that their challenge will be handled by them for the moment. With that, Dusk looks to Silas, not seeing any more outstretched hands for the moment.

<Billy> Billy nods and gives a thumbs up as well, he's been a guardian alongside Gabe under Warder Clint, and if Clint can give a thumbs up so can he. He won't speak out of turn of course, so the thumbs up is about all the support he can show until later.

<River> River gives nothing up, as he falls into place beside the inscrutable Wovoka (at least for the moment). He tilts his head to watch Gabe for a moment after his announcement, until he is absorbed again by the shadows nearby. His gaze flickers back over to Jag then, thoughtfully and watchfully, before he looks back at the place of shadows. Then to Jag. His brow pinches thoughtfully, but he adds nothing, though Clint's reaction shootss those brows up a little and he looks at the ex-Warder. Just taking it all in.

<Silas> Silas casts a rather sharp glance at Clint with his loud whoop - gaze narrowed. Though as he steps back in to recieve back the bone, he offers the Ragabash Gnawer a subtle nod. And once Storms-at-Dusk has acknowledged the challenge, the Truthcatcher takes a moment to ensure there are no further speakers. And with none remaining, he brings the cracking of the bone to its end. As is his custom, Silas places one end of the bone on the ground. And holding it firmly, angled, he lifts his foot and slams it down onto its flat side. The curved rib breaks with a sharp CRACK.

<Pace> The bone cracked, Pace turns a curious look to Lola, then nudges her gently with an elbow. Going? Staying?

<Jag> Once the bone is cracked, Jag will just say what she had been *thinking* earlier of Mark: "Are you out of your *mind*?" she hisses at him, sounding... less angry than she does confused. And maybe scared.

<Lola> Lola seems to debate for a moment, and then nods her head to the door. She was going. A raised brow turns the question back to pace. Going or staying?

<Alexander> Even before the shards of cracked bone hit the floor, Alexander turns around to address the crowd one more time, without the formalities the bone holds. "Those of you who have offered your support, verbally or not, know that I recognize you. In short order, the call to arms will be made, and our first strike back against the Wyrm will be felt by all in this city." Gesturing towards his pack in the back, "My Galliard, Eagleheart, will return to the bawn with my words, and provide the means for which you may contact me. For now, rest well, and prepare." To that, Alexander does not linger, making his way towards the entrance of the Heart. Most of his pack will follow, leaving the blonde Galliard behind to field any questions or remarks.

<River> River sees that the end has come, and then he looks around. He sees a Lola! His head tilts to the side slightly, but he doesn't have long to consider her, not with Alexander speaking. He looks over at the Athro, and he watches in silent consideration those words, before the charismatic Silver Fang starts a-striding.

<Dante Zimmer> As the bone breaks, Dante looks over to Addison, holding a hand up to his head in the typical 'call me' fashion. And then, to Jag, he holds two fingers up to his eyes before pointing towards her, meaning he'll see her before too long. At present though, he seems content on rejoining the third member of his pack, to which the trio will begin showing the starry-eyed cub around the Inner Bawn.

<Wren> Wren clenches and unclenches her hands with a pop or two, gets down from her perch, and takes a few deep, controlled breaths.

<Silas> Silas gazes off after Alexander in silence, reflecting on his words and the challenge set. But now that the formal portions of the moot are done, the Truthcatcher drifts to stand under one of the wings of the crowned angel - her expression wry tonight under the new moon. And there he remains, available should anyone have need to speak with him.