Rakash Moot 430

[Ancient Tower, Open Air Shrine] The suppressive walls below give way to open air on this top level of the tower. Great stone columns steadfastly support a battered and weathered roof which has long since lost its shingles to the elements. The rotted remnants of wooden railings hang limply between columns, having lived out their usefulness years ago. You also see a box of gifts bearing the crest of the Order of the Black Fox, a serving table borne on legs that look like a black fox with several things on it, a Tavern Troupe refreshment cart with several things on it, a rusty telescope, a well-fed pink piglet with a red velvet cupcake-shaped crown topped with a vanilla gauze frosting swirl on it, a large fire, the statue of a wolf and a spiraling staircase. Also here: Minstrel Raiael, Stargazer Mistanna, Treasure Seeker Fariden, Varelius, Frost Fang Taevish who is sheathed in an aura of crackling electricity, Astral Traveler Talcott, Veteran Karturis, Kitten Queen Lycette trailed by a swirling procession of pale prismatic leaves, Coshivi's Voice Rafano, Blessed of Katamba Ghust who is centered within a spectral whirlpool, Sir Hebion, Outrider Chrysagon who is shining with a dark golden glow, Hodierna's Fist Kaelie, Koujia, Vagabond Rhaizu, Commando Rirsti, Regenerator Hoger, Scavenger Rhatt who is sitting, Vapor Ferkeutini who is crowned by a ring of glimmering stars, Alley Fighter Allye, Pack Brother Afs, Oracle Agalea who is emanating a malevolent holy aura, Obsession, Aerialist Emyrose, Viyalo who is sitting and Dancer Vixonia. Obvious paths: none.

Contents [hide] 1 Announcement 2 Gift 3 Prizes 4 Log Announcement[edit] "Oh my gosh, a Moot! There hasn't been one for years!" you hear from a passing voice. "And everyone's invited too! Not just the Rakash!" another voice pipes in. A moment of silence makes you strain to hear more, "I heard it's at the Ancient Tower out by the brook. We better hurry!" Gift[edit] an extremely sharp bone-bladed skinning knife with a leather-wrapped hilt Prizes[edit] A midnight-blue damask odaj embroidered with a crow on the front A shining steel khukri with an ivory handle A sage green herbalist's satchel embroidered with a bright red butterfly Log[edit] You ask, "Are we ready to begin?" Vixonia nods to you. You say, "Here we go..." You exclaim, "Welcome Pack brothers and sisters! Welcome fellow refugees, your children, your grandchildren, and your great grandchildren! Welcome to all who came to aid us in our trials, guiding us from our lost homes! And welcome all who came after and share our sorrow and our victory against Lyras -- May we never see such horrors again!" You exclaim, "We have gathered together this Moot, a Rakash tradition, to share our stories, our history, our legends, our songs and ourselves... to hold friendly competitions.... and to share food, drink and companionship!" You say, "With a traditional "Thank you" to our hosts, the Order of the Black Fox and the Tavern Troupe Performing Order." Kaelie lets out a hearty cheer for Vixonia! Kaelie lets out a hearty cheer for Hebion! Chrysagon looks at Vixonia and applauds! Chrysagon looks at Hebion and applauds! Vixonia flashes a quick grin. Lycette grins, revealing her dimples. Lycette applauds. Allye applauds. You exclaim, "Help yourselves to the gift we wish each of you to have and the abundance of food and drink provided just for you!" Vixonia bobs down and back up in a quick curtsy. Karturis applauds. Chrysagon asks, "Gift?" Lycette exclaims, "Gifts!" You say, "Our tradition always includes an opening prayer." Chrysagon grins at Lycette. You say, "Would you all face west please." You point west. Emyrose gazes off to the west. You grin. Viyalo gazes off to the west. Vixonia gazes off to the west. Rafano gazes off to the west. Hebion gazes off to the west. Lycette gazes off to the west. Hoger gazes off to the west. Talcott gazes off to the west. (Raiael spreads her arms wide, open palms to the sky.) Koujia gazes off to the west. You say, "Mrod, Enelne, Coshivi... Please smile on our gathering and grace us with your presence on this day of celebration." You say, "We face the home we lost... the family and friends we lost. We remember from whence we come. We remember the path we trod." Afs grins ear-to-ear. You say, "Thank you for your blessing, Varna, Turinstil, and Afis." (Raiael kneels, placing her hands on the stone of the tower floor.) You say, "Thank you." Taevish kneels down. A large fire flutters slightly. Koujia smiles. You exclaim, "First, let me relate just a small bit of our history and our Selves, what makes a Rakash so different from the rest of the races in this world. I'll do my best to keep it brief... Pay close attention to everything though -- the information and the stories coming up!" Taevish stands up. You say, "One of our competitions tonight is Trivia, and you may learn the answers before the question is even asked! And, please, if you have something to ask, add or contribute, ... raise your hand." You say, "We, the Rakash, are from the far west. Our capital city was Odcoru. We were driven from our homes by the hordes of Lyras. My grandmother told stories of seeing blood-kin and friends turned to serve her as undead soldiers. Most of us had the help of the eastern races to migrate here after the barrier was created to keep Lyras' armies at bay." You shudder. You say, "Although many of us remained wanderers, even after our migration to Kermoria, many others formed Packs on arriving. For the most part, our Packs are blood-kin, but we adopted many and were adopted by many during those troubling times, so our Packs now range in blood and members." You say, "I think our biggest difference with our Prydaen neighbors is that we tend to gather in Packs, enjoying the support and camaraderie -- we find strength in numbers -- where they live more solitary lives in their Hubs." You say, "Correct me if I'm wrong, please." You smile. Lycette smiles at you, revealing the dimples in her cheeks. You say, "Our spiritual lives are rather simple." Vixonia chuckles at you! You say, "We have only three gods. Not thirteen or some like the Kermorians and Albarians." Rafano grins at you. You say, "Mrod is our Leader of the Great Pack which consists of all Rakash, dead or alive -- all Rakash spirits. He sees all and knows all and takes all forms, esp that of a giant wolf, even though his symbol is the crow... or varna. A cleric could probably explain why that is -- my humble non-clerical opinion is that the crow is his eyes and the wolf is his nose, and both are his cunning." You chuckle. You say, "We, the Rakash, were born in his image. Our natural form is that of the wolf. It was only when Grazhir was destroyed and Katamba burnt that we lost our form to take on a more human shape. But, this..." Ghust quietly says to you in Rakash, "Sorry for switching to Rakash, but I want to be able to speak properly." You tap yourself on the chest. You say, "...is our true form! The form Mrod created us to be." Koujia smiles. You exclaim, "Since that time, we only take on our wolven forms during Katamba's fullness. But make no mistake, we are wolves!" Hoger stands up. Hoger wags his tail enthusiastically. Rafano grins at you. You say, "Our Lady Enelne is our heart, our keeper of knowledge. There's a Rakash saying, "To know how to use what you learned is Enelne's best gift." She serves all wild and cultivated things in this world and helps them grow, including our children." You exclaim, "She is all that is beautiful and shows us in the dance of butterflies... or turinstil. Don't ever kill or capture butterflies -- they are sacred to us!" You say, "You might feel Enelne's angry presence in the prickling of your skin or a stream suddenly changing its direction to protect what is sacred or the shriveling of the crops of an abusive parent." Hoger says, "Kind of have aversion to killing overall." Hoger grins. You say, "Coshivi is our protector and watches over all we do in this world, from trading to hunting, and he is always in wolf form. He helps the young grow into avid hunters and warriors and runs with us to battle in war. His symbol of the badger - afis - obviously shows his strength and fierceness." You say, "Our clerics and parents also often call upon Coshivi and Enelne to aid in the naming of our children as they come of age. After the breaking of Grazhir, our clerics became adept celestial scholars, using their knowledge in the naming rituals, and so holding a very important and honored role in our Packs." You ask, "Anything to add, ask or comment on?" A large fire flutters slightly. You look around, trying to appear nonchalant. You smile. Vixonia shakes her head. You say, "Okay then..Now..." You say, "Our competitions tonight will include a Storytelling contest, a Howling contest, and a Trivia contest." You exclaim, "Everyone is welcome to join in!" You say, "Vixonia will be leading the Storytelling part of tonight's competitions." Vixonia flashes a quick grin. Vixonia bobs down and back up in a quick curtsy. You say, "And, if you want to be included in the Howling competition, Kaelie'll be leading that after the storytelling." You say, "We'll finish up with Trivia. I will lead that part." You exclaim to Vixonia, "It's all yours, Vix!" You smile at Vixonia. Chrysagon lets out a hearty cheer for Vixonia! A large fire flutters slightly. Kaelie exclaims, "Just whisper to me so I know who to call upon!" Vixonia smiles as she steps forward into the circle of folks and waves. Vixonia says, "Hello hello! And welcome." Taevish beams at Vixonia! Vixonia says, "I would like to start by thanking the Order of the Black Fox for inviting the Tavern Troup to participate in this event." You smile at Vixonia. Vixonia says, "As you can see... I myself am not rakash, but as a prydaen, we do have many similarities." A large fire flutters slightly. Vixonia grins impishly. Rafano's tail sways freely. Looks like he really enjoys being in moonskin. Vixonia says, "One of the similarities between our kin is that we both have a long and rich oral tradition." Swelling with pride, Hoger's ears seem to stretch, giving him a more imposing look. Allye beams at Vixonia! You nod to Vixonia. Taevish animatedly says, "Rakash or not, all life is part of the great pack." A large fire wavers a bit. Emyrose flashes a quick grin at Taevish. You nod at Taevish, in complete agreement with his views. Vixonia says, "So I was asked to come and join you all by starting off a story competition! Everyone is invited to participate, just whisper me if you have a story you'd like to contribute." Emyrose smiles at Vixonia. Vixonia says, "I thought I would start out by telling the story of my own kin as they fled the west to come to the lands here." You nod to Vixonia. You smile. Vixonia quietly says, "I'd like to take a moment to tell a rather personal story if you don't mind..." Vixonia smiles softly as she absently runs a hand over her mane, smoothing it down. Speaking up a little, her voice carries out across her audience. Vixonia says, "It's a story I like to call, 'The Refugees'." Emyrose gazes at Vixonia. A large fire flutters slightly. Vixonia recites:

   "On a dark road leading to an uncertain future, a traveling caravan filled with the elderly and young flees from the past."

Vixonia recites:

   "Stopping for the evening, some prydaen kits gather at their grandmother's feet near the campfire to listen to her tales of their homeland and of hope."

Vixonia recites:

   "The elder gazes at the young ones thoughtfully before reaching out to tweak the furry blue-gray tail of one of her granddaughters who was creeping closer to the fire, transfixed by it's beauty."

Vixonia smiles softly, then continues, lost in her reverie. Vixonia recites:

   ""Now pay attention younglings, you come from a family filled with great pride. You must never forget your heritage, but you should also realize that it is important to be able to adapt to the new place we go to. After all, it will become home for not only us, but our future generations as well.""

Vixonia recites:

   "She gazes fondly down at one of her grandchildren, a girl with gleaming white fur that was almost startling against the dark of the night. "At that point, you will have to carry on the tradition of telling our history.""

Vixonia recites:

   "A young kit, with fur so dark only his crystal blue eyes glowed in the firelight to reveal his presence, pipes up. "Gran, where did mom and dad go?""

(Vixonia pauses for a moment in her narration, a long lost look as though staring off into the unseen fire.) Vixonia recites:

   "A hint of sadness touches her as she gazes at the children, "They got word of some other survivors still traveling that were quite ill.  Your mother went to see if she could help heal the taint that the undead left on their elder. Your father went with her to keep her safe until the time comes that they can return to us.""

(Vixonia perks up suddenly, every muscle of her slender frame tense.) Vixonia recites:

   "The sudden sound of a twig snapping shot through the night. Ears alert, the family leapt to their feet."

Vixonia recites:

   "The looming forms of bandits step out from around the caravans. "Run children! Run!" Gran yells out, her tail lashing in fury at the intrusion.  Everyone scatters as the bandits give chase."

Vixonia utters a low, menacing hiss that rattles in her throat, her tail slashing lines in the air. Vixonia recites:

   "Drawing a dagger out of his tail sheath, the young boy aims and embeds it into the eye of a dark figure that had grabbed his youngest sister. The bandit falls to the ground clutching his face in agony as he drops the little girl."

A large fire flutters slightly. Emyrose tilts her head, clearly curious about something. Vixonia recites:

   "She takes off like a shot out into the darkness, no thought in her head of where to go other than to get away.  Meanwhile her brother turns to face the other bandits, another dagger materializing in his hands."

Vixonia recites:

   ""Go Gran! Niv, you make sure she gets out of here!" He shouts over his shoulder as he faces the enemy."

Vixonia recites:

   "The oldest girl grabs her grandmother's arm and pulls at her, drawing her away from the fire and the certain death that loomed over it. "He'll be ok, Gran... he's gotten really good with those blades. We have to get out of here!""

Ghust quietly says in Rakash, "I don't know where my parents came from. I know nothing of my past history or of any possible relations I might have. I have no story to tell, I don't belong here." (Vixonia sighs softly while a flicker of what can only be melancholy waves over her features.) Vixonia recites:

   "Fleeing into the darkness, the night engulfed the sounds of struggle behind them. Glancing back over her shoulder, the young bard-to-be cries out when she sees her brother fall unconscious as he's struck from behind.  It was a hard decision, but Gran needed her more... she dashed off into the night with tears streaking down her face."

Vixonia's ears droop for a moment. Hoger says in Rakash, "That's not true or you wouldn't be here." Chrysagon raises an eyebrow. Vixonia recites:

   "Scattered to the winds, the family of prydaen starts their new life in the east alone."

(Vixonia pauses for a moment as her story comes to an end before continuing.) Vixonia says, "The end of this story held a challenging new beginning for my family. My great-gran and my aunt Nivenya escaped, but were only together for a few more years. Niv spent a long time wandering alone after gran passed away. Luckily mom, the youngest of the three, found my aunt here in the west everyone else was able to reunite once more." Vixonia smiles softly as she curtsies deeply. Allye trills softly at Vixonia. Rafano's sadness is obvious from the way his tail flops dejectedly. Emyrose looks at Vixonia and applauds! Lycette smiles at Vixonia, revealing the dimples in her cheeks. Allye looks at Vixonia and applauds! Rhorgul praises Vixonia. Lycette lets out a hearty cheer for Vixonia! Rhaizu applauds. Fariden looks at Vixonia and applauds! Hebion looks at Vixonia and applauds! Varelius looks at Vixonia and applauds! Talcott beams at Vixonia! Rafano looks at Vixonia and applauds! Mistanna lets out a hearty cheer for Vixonia! Vixonia bobs down and back up in a quick curtsy. Taevish howls joyfully, head thrown back to the sky. You let out a hearty cheer for Vixonia! A large fire flutters slightly. Koujia lets out a mournful lonely howl... does he know you're here? Taevish beams at Vixonia! Vixonia asks, "That's just a tale of my kin... does anyone else have a story they want to share?" Vixonia says, "It doesn't have to be about your family... it can be about who you are now or what you have accomplished." Emyrose nods at Vixonia, obviously agreeing with her views. Taevish animatedly says, "I have a story to tell, that might help others understand how we are all part of the great pack as well." Ghust quietly says, "Ah guess ah do have one thing." Emyrose gazes about, drinking in her surroundings. Allye grins at Taevish. A large fire grows dimmer. Vixonia says, "Wonderful... let's start with Taevish and then Ghust can share." Hoger asks, "Well I guess I could go into 101 different ways to die?" Ghust takes a seat. Ghust grins at Hoger. Lycette grins, revealing her dimples. Vixonia grins at Hoger. Taevish animatedly says, "My thanks." Taevish smiles. Ghust quietly says to Hoger, "Test em out first." You smile at Taevish. Hoger says, "I have." Hoger winks at Ghust. Ghust chuckles. Taevish recites:

   "My pack was small, and we wandered further than most, especially to the north where the cold winds would blow.  In winter we would settle down early in the evening just to gather extra warmth from the camp fire.  Although I was still young when Lyras came and chased us from out homes, I still recall my the many stories we would share, hudled around the crackling flames."

Emyrose cocks her head at Taevish. Taevish recites:

   "What I am about to tell you is the creation story my family would tell.  Since coming here I've heard a few variations of it from other Rakash, and even completely different tales explaining how we, and all life, came to be.  However, none of them ever stuck with me that way this one does."

A large fire flutters slightly. Taevish recites:

   "The story goes that long, long ago the Gods looked down across these lands, barren of anything but rock at that time, and they knew that it could be so much more.  The three, Mrod, Enelne, and Coshivi, gathered close together and combined their very natures and essences into a giant swirling mass of divine and life energy.  Those from the east might refers to the strands of this life energy as "souls"."

Taevish recites:

   "The three Gods then looked upon their creation, unsure immediately of what they would do with it."

Taevish recites:

   "Mrod, ever wise, drew back and began planning his divine creation.  He would not rush into creation, but rather sought to find perfection before proceeding."

Taevish recites:

   "Enelne, ever giving, began drawing forth strands of energy and sowed them into the soil.  From the soil trees, grass, crops, and all other plant life sprung forth, and life began."

Taevish recites:

   "Coshivi, ever pragmatic, began exploration of the lands and all of the new life that had come to be.  He sought to learn the use and value of all things."

Taevish recites:

   "Mrod, ever patient, began work on his creation.  He did so slowly and steadily, ensuring that no flaws would be found.  "

Rhorgul's tail sways freely. Looks like he really enjoys being in moonskin. You smile at Taevish. Taevish recites:

   "Enelne, ever watchful, gazed upon a pair of petals that had been swept up by the wind.  Quickly they fluttered across the air, almost seeming by choice, and in that Enelne found inspiration.  Enelne drew forth another strand from the life energy and planted it within the petals.  The petals grew closure together, becoming one, and changing shape.  And thus, the first butterfly was born."

Emyrose smiles. You grin at Taevish. Taevish recites:

   "Coshivi, ever mighty, continued to roam the land.  He sought and found the largest creatures and learned their ways so that he might better hunt them.  One by one he took down the largest of each species and feasted upon them.  Then, after his meal, he took what remained of the creatures and learned how they could be of use in making tools, clothes, many other ways."

Rafano grins at Taevish. Taevish recites:

   "Finally, Enelne and Coshivi returned to the skies and saw what Mrod was creating.  He was nearly finished, but Enelne and Coshivi were enthralled with his creation and were eager to help.  And so the three of them acted in one in the completion of the first group Rakash.  "

A large fire sputters suddenly and then goes out. Taevish recites:

   "Finally satisfied, Mrod reached for strands of life energy, but found they were nearly gone!  Unaware of Mrod's creation, and caught up in bringing life to the world, Enelne had used up all but the last strand!  Mrod was not detered.  He took the final strand, tore it assunder, and place a little piece in each of the Rakash.  And so, where there were many, there was also one
     where there was one, there was also many.  And thus, the first pack was born."

Viyalo says, "Oooo..." Emyrose gazes thoughtfully at Taevish. Vixonia perks her ears up happily as she gazes at Taevish. Taevish recites:

   "The first of Rakash ran across the land, but struggled to survive, but Enelne showed them the plants that she had grown and how they could be used for food and medicine.  However, it was not enough food for so many people!  So Coshivi took them and showed them how to run as a pack, and how to hunt.  And soon they feasted.  However, whenever the pack went for a hunt on their own, they would soon tire and often could not complete the kill!"

Taevish recites:

   "Mrod realized that although the strand he split among them was enough to bring them to life, they did not have enough strength or stamina to survive in these lands.  As he sought an answer to his problem Enelne, who was still sorrowful for having used so many of the strands, reached out to all of her creations.  From each of them she pulled just a little of the energy she had given them, and bound it to the Rakash.  "

You nod to Taevish. Taevish recites:

   "And thus, the Rakash were filled with strengh and vigor that they needed, but also were they bound to all living things.  And so, the Great Pack was finally born."

Taevish bows. Emyrose looks at Taevish and applauds! Taevish smiles. Raising her Prydaen bloodwine to Taevish, Vixonia gives him a toast. You beam at Taevish! You applaud. Allye lets out a hearty cheer for Taevish! Mistanna lets out a hearty cheer for Taevish! Hebion looks at Taevish and applauds! Fariden looks at Taevish and applauds! Allye applauds. Ghust applauds. Rhorgul praises Taevish. Taevish smiles. Ferkeutini applauds. Emyrose says to Taevish, "That was beautifully told and I can see why it stuck with you." Karturis applauds. Lycette lets out a hearty cheer for Taevish! Vixonia says, "I love that story! Wonderfully told..." Raising his Troupe Reserve ale to Taevish, Chrysagon gives him a toast. Aei applauds. An odd look crosses Koujia's face, as if he were concentrating on something. Chrysagon lets out a hearty cheer for Taevish! Varelius lets out a hearty cheer for Taevish! Taevish beams at Vixonia! Rafano looks at Taevish and applauds! Taevish howls joyfully, head thrown back to the sky. Vixonia grins at Ghust. Vixonia asks Ghust, "Are you ready as well?" Ghust nods. Kaelie lets out a hearty cheer for Taevish! Ghust stands up. Ghust scratches his head. Kaelie takes a sip of her brandy. Raising his Troupe Reserve ale to Ghust, Chrysagon gives him a toast. Ghust quietly says, "Um, ah don' speak well in Common, so fergive me if ah get words wrong." Vixonia nods to Ghust. Ghust quietly says, "Ah dunno where ah was born, but I was raised in Arthe Dale, by mah birth parents who were traders." Taevish smiles at Ghust. Rhaizu brushes one ear with his hand, grooming it absentmindedly. Ghust quietly says, "We only spoke Rakash, an any Common was when they were workin. Thats how ah learned Common." Ghust quietly says, "When ah was 10 years old, ah asked them about our history an past." Ghust quietly says, "Mah mother shook her head an ran from th' room. Mah father told me to never ask that again." Viyalo's ears droop for a moment. Chrysagon raises an eyebrow in Ghust's direction. Koujia's unhappiness is apparent as his tail almost drags on the ground in a listless droop. Ghust quietly says, "They've passed on. But ah was told by a traveller later ta go to the Rakash village and get a favor from there." Ghust quietly says, "So ah did." You nod to Ghust. Ghust quietly says, "An ah was shown horror after horror." Vixonia gazes at Ghust. Ghust quietly says, "An ah understood a little why they never talked about it." You nod to Ghust. Vixonia nods to Ghust. Ghust quietly says, "So, ah've been tryin ta learn our history. Th' pack ah got is mah godparents an mah wife." Ghust quietly says, "But, th' more horror ah see, th' less ah wanna learn about it." Ghust gets a frost-red sanowret crystal from inside his multi-strapped carryall. Aei rubs Ghust gently. Ghust quietly says, "However, one thing." Ghust quietly says, "This crystal told me th' story of how we rakash got our howl." Ghust nods. Ghust quietly says, "So that was a good thing ta learn." Ghust nods. Chrysagon says, "Ah." Chrysagon nods to Ghust. Ghust quietly says, "Guess thats it really." Emyrose flashes a quick grin at Ghust. You smile at Ghust. Raising his Troupe Reserve ale to Ghust, Chrysagon gives him a toast. Ghust takes a seat. Aeryne studies the faces around her. Emyrose looks at Ghust and applauds! Raising her Prydaen bloodwine to Ghust, Vixonia gives him a toast. You gaze into Ghust's eyes and applaud him heartily. Chrysagon lets out a hearty cheer for Ghust! Ghust quietly says, "Thanks." Ferkeutini applauds. Allye applauds. Ghust puts his crystal in his multi-strapped carryall. Aei asks, "So... how did Rakash get their howl?" Karturis applauds. Emyrose grins at Aei. Ghust ponders. Vixonia exclaims to Ghust, "Thank you for sharing!" Emyrose says to Aei, "I was wondering the same thing." Hoger asks, "Strict parents?" Vixonia says, "Well told." Raising her apple brandy to Ghust, Kaelie gives him a toast. Lycette looks at Ghust and applauds! Rhorgul howls melodiously, serenading the black moon. Taevish lets out a hearty cheer for Ghust! Vixonia asks, "Is there anyone else that would like to share a story?" Vixonia asks Hoger, "Did you want to tell the 101 ways of dying?" Vixonia flashes a quick grin. Lycette grins at Hoger, her dimples flashing into view. Ghust quietly says to Hoger, "Well, ah did get disiplined on th' backside when ah stole pies from neighbors windowsills." Ghust gets a frost-red sanowret crystal from inside his multi-strapped carryall. You grin at Ghust. Karturis grins at Ghust. Aei says, "I've only figured out 9 ways of dying on my own." Rafano gives his tail a vigorous shake, fluffing it into a huge plume. You think he did it to impress you? Vixonia grins at Aei. Ghust quietly says, "Um, if anyone would like ta hear th' story, you kin borrow mah crystal. Jus ask." Ghust taps a frost-red sanowret crystal that he is holding. Viyalo stretches out a hand imploringly to Ghust. Aei says, "So that would be a tenfold increase of my knowledge." Ghust offers Viyalo a frost-red sanowret crystal. Viyalo accepts Ghust's sanowret crystal. Viyalo beams! Viyalo gazes intently into her sanowret crystal, and scintillating sparks of light dance across its surface. Vixonia asks, "Any more story submissions?" Vixonia angles her ears forward in curiosity. Emyrose gazes off into the distance. Viyalo offers Ghust a frost-red sanowret crystal. Ghust accepts Viyalo's sanowret crystal. Viyalo says to Ghust, "Thankee..." Viyalo rubs her head. Ghust quietly asks, "Anyone else want ta see th' story?" Ghust nods to Viyalo. Emyrose gives Ghust a slight nod. Emyrose says to Ghust, "I would like to." Ghust offers Emyrose a frost-red sanowret crystal. Emyrose accepts Ghust's sanowret crystal. Emyrose taps a frost-red sanowret crystal that she is holding. Emyrose gazes intently into her sanowret crystal, and scintillating sparks of light dance across its surface. Taevish animatedly says, "I can recite the story, if you like, Ghust." Vixonia grins at Taevish. Ghust nods. Taevish animatedly says, "Rather than passing the crystal about." Vixonia says, "I'd love to hear it." Ghust quietly says, "Okay, that kin work too." You smile at Taevish. Kaelie says, "I'd be interested in hearing it too." Kaelie nods. Taevish recites:

   "In the oldest days, before we were driven from our home, before the World Dragon charred Katamba, before our first written accounts of things, we roamed in packs, our bodies whole.  Even then, the pack was life.  To be separated from the pack, certain death.  Mrod held the sky, Enelne the earth, and Coshivi hunted beside us.  But we did not yet have our howl - could not pierce the night to call out to our pack.  Our voices caught the wind and floated away."

Kaelie says, "Since nobody has requested to start the howling yet..." Ferkeutini throws his head back and howls! Kaelie casually observes the area. Taevish recites:

   "There was a cub, fur as white as mountain snow, eyes as black as a crow's feathers, ears tall and sharp as pinecones.  He ran with his pack and did not know encumbrance.  He ate with his pack and did not know hunger.  He laughed with his pack and did not know sorrow.  Never had he been alone in all his days, and his heart beat in the same rhythm as all his pack."

Taevish recites:

   "The year he was to come of age, before his first hunt without his pack's elders, the snow came early and sudden.  The pack bristled at the sudden storm - how food hid or slumbered in the snow.  Together they roamed for food, careful to stay within a wind's throw of their voices.  But our little snow-furred cub became distracted.  He smelled something delicious, just out of reach, and wandered too close to the forest's edge."

Emyrose offers Ghust a frost-red sanowret crystal. Ghust accepts Emyrose's sanowret crystal. Ghust puts his crystal in his multi-strapped carryall. Emyrose quietly says to Ghust, "Thank you." Taevish recites:

   "It was for naught - the smell led him to an abandoned rabbit's den, no succulent prey.  And when he emerged from the cover of trees, his pack had moved beyond the reach of his voice, past the limits of his eyes.  He searched for tracks, sniffed the air and the ground, but the falling snow had erased all impressions his pack had left in the earth.  For the first time in his young life, our cub was alone."

Ghust nods to Emyrose. Ghust quietly says, "Welcome." You observe Taevish with fascination. Taevish recites:

   "Fearsome thoughts overcame him - What would he eat?  Where would he find shelter?  How would he find his pack again?  The only thing he saw in any direction was the white of snow reflecting red light as Yavash rose in the sky."

Taevish recites:

   "But fear not, my children, for Mrod is kind.  His spirit soars everywhere and sees all.  He would not allow a cub to be forever parted from his pack.  As the cub shivered in the cold, a crow flew overhead, sharp eyes spotting even the white cub in the white snow.  He flew high and saw the cub's pack, searching now not only for food, but for their precious cub.  And the crow, black as the print fire leaves on its fuel, landed in the snow beside the cub."

You nod to Taevish. Taevish recites:

   "'Aren't you hungry?' spake the crow.  And the cub nodded, his belly a drum rumbling in the winter air.  'Wouldn't you love a juicy apple?' inquired the crow.  And the cub nodded, his stomach a gurgling river.  And the crow spake again, 'Then open wide your mouth, and eat that great round apple!' The crow took flight, and rose before the red light of Yavash."

You grin at Taevish. Taevish recites:

   "The cub opened his mouth, wide and round enough to swallow the moon, but still his belly was empty.  He curved his tongue just so in his mouth, to catch the apple when it fell, but the apple could not be plucked from its tree.  He sucked in a great breath of air to pull the apple moon into his mouth, but it remained in the sky.  All that filled his belly was air."

Taevish recites:

   "Unable to eat the great apple, he released a great mournful sigh, his head still tilted back at Yavash.  The air in his belly rushed out with the ache in his soul, and from his body came the purest note of music ever sung - the first true Howl of a Rakash. "

You grin at Taevish. Emyrose chortles softly at some secret joke. Taevish recites:

   "The sound of his cry echoed across the snow-covered lands, alerting his pack to his condition and location.  He continued his cries, swallowing the moonlight and singing it out over the earth.  Soon enough his pack was upon him, and hollered a greeting.  They saw the way his head rose toward the sky, and threw back their heads in joy at his recovery, their howls joining his."

You chuckle at Taevish. Taevish recites:

   "And from that day every Rakash has known how to swallow the sky and turn it into a song.  When we are lonely, when we are hungry, when our hearts thrum with joy, our lungs fill with the scent of apples and the bursting of want.  And if you look up into the sky, you can almost catch the sight of a crow on the horizon, reminding us that the spirit of Mrod soars everywhere and sees everything.  He will keep the pack together
     when we are separated, it will not be for long."

Taevish stands up. Taevish bows. Emyrose grins at Taevish. Karturis smiles at Taevish. Emyrose looks at Taevish and applauds! Rafano smiles. Ferkeutini lets out a loud "Huzzah!" for Taevish! Taevish smiles. Karturis lets out a hearty cheer for Taevish! Ghust howls joyfully, head thrown back to the sky. You beam at Taevish! Taevish animatedly says, "My thanks." Koujia squints at Taevish, then throws a salt crab in his direction. Oooo, near miss! Raising her Prydaen bloodwine to Taevish, Vixonia gives him a toast. You let out a loud "Huzzah!" for Taevish! Viyalo applauds. Taevish beams at Vixonia! Allye beams at Taevish! Ferkeutini laughs at Koujia. The tips of Koujia's ears flop forward giving his face a soft, contented appearance. Aei looks at Taevish and applauds! Koujia chortles softly at some secret joke. Vixonia says, "Well told! Was a fun story... and now I am craving an apple." Vixonia nibbles her lip thoughtfully. Karturis says, "A Grand tale." Agalea asks, "Are we howling now?" Agalea grins, revealing her dimples. Taevish snickers at Vixonia. You let out a bright joyous howl, full of life and vigor. Hoger howls in pain causing your fur to bristle. Kaelie exclaims, "It was indeed!" Emyrose offers Vixonia a baked apple. Taevish takes a bite of the apple. Vixonia exclaims, "If there are no more stories for the contest... then I turn attention back to Raiael!" Taevish smiles. Agalea says, "What happened to the howling contest." Agalea begins pouting. You say, "We, the judges, have decided the best storyteller tonight is Taevish." Vixonia takes a bite of the apple. Vixonia flashes a quick grin. You beam at Taevish! llye lets out a hearty cheer for Taevish! Karturis nods. Kaelie lets out a hearty cheer for Taevish! Rafano applauds. Ferkeutini lands a glancing strike to Taevish's right leg. The salt crab falls to the ground! Ghust bows to Karturis. Karturis bows to Ghust. Ferkeutini lets out a hearty cheer for Taevish! Taevish smiles. Aei applauds. Raising her Prydaen bloodwine to Taevish, Vixonia gives him a toast. Rhorgul looks at Taevish and applauds! Taevish chuckles. Taevish stands up. Taevish animatedly says, "My thanks." Taevish sweeps a great helm embellished with multihued glaes fire off his head and in front of him in a large arc, fluidly stepping backward and bowing at the same time. Vixonia exclaims, "Stories well told all!" Kaelie says, "Although I do have to say that all stories were wonderful to hear." Taevish animatedly says, "I am truly honored." Emyrose looks at Taevish and applauds! Vixonia nods at Kaelie, obviously agreeing with her views. Lycette smiles, revealing the dimples in her cheeks. Ghust quietly says, "Part of me misses bein a cub an not an empath an huntin rabbits durin moonskin." You grin at Karturis. Karturis leans on you. You whisper to Karturis, "hard keeping up with all the noise.. Taevish gets the odaj in the bag of goodies" Karturis whispers, "ahhh" Kaelie says, "So the next part is the howling! So far I have one contestant entered if anyone wants to show off their tones let me know." Karturis gets a midnight-blue damask odaj embroidered with a crow on the front from inside his burlap bag. Rafano's ears wiggle with joy. Kaelie says to Rafano, "You give us your best howl." Karturis says, "Taevish." Karturis says, "Sir..." Karturis bows to Taevish. Taevish points at himself. Taevish animatedly asks, "Me?" Karturis says, "Aye." You grin at Taevish. Kaelie exclaims, "Ok, so we can get it started ... Agalea! You're up first in the moon croon!" Taevish casually observes the area. You grin at Agalea. Agalea stretches her arms. Hoger says, "Moon croon? I like it." Rhorgul chuckles. Agalea howls for Zehira to come to her. Karturis yells, "All be told. Taevish has won da Howling." Agalea grins, revealing her dimples. Hoger shivers. Karturis grins. Taevish snickers. Karturis offers Taevish a midnight-blue damask odaj embroidered with a crow on the front. Koujia grins. You chuckle at Karturis. Taevish laughs! You grin. Viyalo blinks at Agalea. Rhorgul looks at Agalea and applauds! Taevish accepts Karturis's damask odaj. Kaelie lets out a hearty cheer for Agalea! Karturis bows to Taevish. Taevish animatedly exclaims, "It is beautiful!" Taevish bows to Karturis. Kaelie exclaims, "Next we will have Hoger!" Hoger lets out a mournful lonely howl... does he know you're here? Taevish puts his odaj in his journey pack. Karturis leans on you. Taevish lets rip a victory howl that sets your blood pounding. Kaelie beams at Rafano! Viyalo throws her head back and howls! Emyrose grins at Viyalo. Viyalo quickly clasps both hands over her mouth. Ghust grins at Viyalo. Rafano grins at Viyalo. Taevish smiles at Viyalo. Kaelie lets out a hearty cheer for Hoger! Taevish nods to Viyalo. Taevish animatedly exclaims, "Aye, join us!" Talcott looks at Viyalo and applauds! Kaelie exclaims, "Koujia you're up!" Koujia lets out a deep, resonant, masculine howl. Koujia arches his tail stiffly as he assumes an imposing stance. Do you detect a bit of a strut in his movements? Swelling with pride, Koujia's ears seem to stretch, giving him a more imposing look. Viyalo says to Taevish, "Izzit... allowed? I jes' got swept up in th' moment... I dun' wanna ruin it fer th' Rakash..." Koujia bobs a brief, respectful bow. Ghust quietly says to Viyalo, "Was a good howl." Hoger asks, "Why would you?" Taevish animatedly says, "Haven't met a Rakash who doesn't also howl in Sunskin, dayskin, what have you." Taevish smiles at Viyalo. Hoger says, "We just don't sound as good." Ghust nods at Hoger, obviously agreeing with his views. Rafano chuckles. Taevish smirks at Hoger. Hoger grins at Taevish. Kaelie says, "Ok and finally Vixonia wanted to give it a go, even if she doesn't have the bite she wants to try the bark, er ... howl." Viyalo says, "Well... ya seem ter like it more'n other folk like my singin'..." Viyalo stares meekly at the ground in a moment of embarrassment. Taevish lets out a hearty cheer for Vixonia! Vixonia grins impishly. Allye beams at Vixonia! Taevish beams at Aysta! (Vixonia takes a deep breath and then leans forward onto her toes. Raising her head up to the sky she stands poised and ready. Opening her mouth to let out a deep howl, she is surprised when a sudden rush of rain floods down her throat and it winds up being more of a soaked 'merp' than a howl.) An emerald-green jade dragonfly emits a soft humming noise as it flits lazily around Fariden's head. Lycette grins, revealing her dimples. Lycette lets out a hearty cheer for Vixonia! Allye giggles. Aysta grins at Taevish. Kaelie laughs! Fariden chuckles. Hoger chortles softly at some secret joke. Rafano chuckles. Allye lets out a hearty cheer for Vixonia! Vixonia shakes her head. You chuckle at Vixonia. Kaelie lets out a hearty cheer for Vixonia! Viyalo snickers at Vixonia. Kaelie pats Vixonia on the back. Vixonia coughs. Rhorgul whistles a few low, warbling notes to Vixonia. Ghust lets out a hearty cheer for Vixonia! You gaze into Vixonia's eyes and applaud her heartily. Vixonia grins sheepishly. Hoger says, "I can heal but I am not doing mouth to mouth." Aei looks at Vixonia and applauds! You grin. Viyalo tilts her head back in an attempt to imitate the languid movement of a S'Kra Mur, but her mouth accidentally falls open, rather ruining the effect. Karturis gets an impish expression on his face, and lets out a hearty cheer. Agalea grins at Vixonia, her dimples flashing into view. Kaelie exclaims, "That was a grand effort to be sure!" Fariden pats Vixonia on the back. Raising her apple brandy to Vixonia, Kaelie gives her a toast. Vixonia shifts uncomfortably for a moment. Taevish snickers at Vixonia. Taevish hugs Vixonia, getting a smile in return. Vixonia says, "Sorry... um... I will leave it to you all." Vixonia giggles a little oddly. Rafano howls melodiously, serenading the black moon. Taevish snickers at Vixonia. Hoger lets out a deep, resonant, masculine howl. Hoger ducks his head. Ghust lifts his face to the sky and howls. The haunting song of a wolf resonates through the area. Viyalo meows, her voice resonating. Fariden throws his head back and lets out a fierce roar of pride! Ahneya's salt crab says, "Good show, good show too all the contestants." Fariden shrugs. Kaelie lets out a hearty cheer for Fariden! Raising her Prydaen bloodwine to Fariden, Vixonia gives him a toast. Viyalo gives Ahneya a most suspicious look. Hoger says, "I'd say Agalea. I still am shivering from that one." Taevish smirks at Agalea. Vixonia praises Agalea. Kaelie exclaims, "Ok so we have come to a winner for our howling!" Lycette smiles, revealing the dimples in her cheeks. Kaelie says, "Everyone raise your voices to ..." Kaelie exclaims, "Agalea!" Lycette lets out a hearty cheer for Agalea! Karturis gets a shining steel khukri with an ivory handle from inside his burlap bag. Emyrose looks at Agalea and applauds! Mistanna lets out a hearty cheer for Agalea! Rafano looks at Agalea and applauds! Ferkeutini looks at Agalea and applauds! Vixonia lets out a loud "Huzzah!" for Agalea! Agalea carefully lifts the skirt of her rosecloth gown and dips into a deep curtsy. Allye looks at Agalea and applauds! Ghust looks at Agalea and applauds! Talcott looks at Agalea and applauds! Fariden looks at Agalea and applauds! Kaelie throws her head back and howls! Koujia looks at Agalea and applauds! Hoger looks at Agalea and applauds! You say, "Unanimously..or whatever that word is... Agalea gets top howler." Ahneya's salt crab says, "Jolly good howling Agalea." Taevish lets out a hearty cheer for Agalea! You grin at Agalea. You let out a hearty cheer for Agalea! Karturis yells, "And She wins this." Lycette grins, revealing her dimples. A heavy "Swish Woosh!" vibrates the air around you as Karturis swings his steel khukri through the air. Viyalo ducks her head. You grin at Karturis. Aei looks at Agalea and applauds! You chuckle. Karturis offers Agalea a shining steel khukri with an ivory handle. Lycette grins, revealing her dimples. Agalea accepts Karturis's steel khukri. Kaelie says, "And Vixonia you were right up there in the effort given category." Koujia takes a bite of a salt crab, a bit of fresh blood dribbling from the corners of his mouth as he bites off a hunk of the raw meat. Agalea says, "Thank you." Karturis bows to Agalea. Fariden playfully exclaims, "Another sword for her axe sheathe!" Lycette nods at Vixonia, obviously agreeing with her views. Vixonia raises her voice in merry laughter. Fariden breaks out in a silly grin. Vixonia says, "Effort only counts for so much..." Vixonia giggles. Agalea says, "Oh yes." Agalea says, "I have so many weapons..." Agalea ponders. You grin at Agalea. Agalea begins to carefully examine a shining steel khukri with an ivory handle. Taevish snickers at Agalea. Kaelie says to Koujia, "Very nicely done by the way. I think your howl was splendid." Koujia smiles at Kaelie. Koujia's ears wiggle with joy. Taevish animatedly says, "I was personally impressed by the non Rakash howls. Well done to all." Taevish nods. Hoger's ear suddenly begins to quiver madly. Momentarily distracted, he reaches up and gives it a thorough scratching. Lycette grins, revealing her dimples. You nod to Taevish. You grin at Viyalo. Agalea puts her khukri in her white belt. You say, "Loved yours, Viy." Hoger arches his tail stiffly as he assumes an imposing stance. Do you detect a bit of a strut in his movements? You chuckle at Viyalo. Viyalo babbles incoherently. Swelling with pride, Agalea's ears seem to stretch, giving her a more imposing look. Ghust quietly says to Hoger, "Try not ta trip over yer own pride." You ask, "Ok..a little bit of trivia?" Ghust grins at Hoger. Ferkeutini snickers. You smile. Hoger winks at Ghust. You say, "Raise your hand if you know the answer." Karturis says, "A Toast to Agalea...that howl curled me beard a bit." Lycette grins, revealing her dimples. You say, "Question 1...." Kaelie grins at Karturis. Karturis takes a sip of his rum. ou ask, "What is a turinstil?" Fariden raises his hand. Agalea raises her hand. You ask, "Fariden?" Vixonia raises her hand. Fariden says, "A butterfly." You nod. You grin. Vixonia exclaims, "And sacred!" Fariden says, "Also, Enelne's symbol." You ask, "Who's symbol is the crow?" Agalea raises her hand. Ghust coughs. Aei says, "Mrod." Fariden raises his hand. You say, "Agalea." Aei says, "Oops." Agalea says, "Mrod." You chuckle. You nod. Aei ducks her head. Koujia grins. You ask, "When did we lose our moonskins?" Fariden raises his hand. You say, "Fariden." Fariden says, "When Grazhir was blackened." Agalea raises her hand. Viyalo shakes her head. Taevish gasps! Fariden blinks. You say, "Agalea." Taevish snickers. You chuckle. Viyalo pats Fariden on the back. Fariden says, "Err, Katamba. Dammit." Fariden bops himself over the head. Aei rubs Fariden gently. Ahneya's salt crab says, "Remember to raise your pincers if you know the answer, not just yell it out." Agalea says, "When Grazhir's destructioned blackend Katamba." You say, "Right." Taevish lets out a hearty cheer for Agalea! You grin. Fariden frowns. Koujia smiles. Raising her apple brandy to Agalea, Lycette gives her a toast. You ask, "Who governs the earth?" Taevish raises his hand. Karturis lets out a hearty cheer for Agalea! You say, "Taev." Taevish animatedly says, "Enelne, ever wise." You smile at Taevish. You say, "Right." You ask, "What is too sacred to hunt?" Fariden raises his hand. Taevish raises his hand. Agalea raises her hand. You say, "Fariden." Ahneya's salt crab says, "Salt crabs." Fariden asks, "Butterflies?" Aei grins at Ahneya. You grin at Ahneya. Fariden says, "Again." Agalea raises her hand. Fariden chuckles. You say, "Right." Emyrose chuckles at Ahneya. You chuckle. Agalea coughs. Karturis cackles at Ahneya! You ask, "What's a varna?" Agalea raises her hand. Fariden raises his hand. You say, "Agalea." Viyalo raises her hand. Agalea says, "Badger." Agalea says, "Coshivi." Vixonia quietly says to Fariden, "You know lots about Butterflies, love." You say, "Fariden." Fariden asks, "A crow?" Agalea produces a muffled snap with the pads of her furry fingers. You nod to Fariden. You say, "Got it." You say, "Sorry Agalea." You grin. Agalea says, "It happens." Karturis applauds. Agalea says, "I got him on one, and He got me on one." Agalea smiles at Fariden, revealing the dimples in her cheeks. Fariden nods. You say, "One more to break any ties then." You grin. You ask, "Why is Katamba important to us?" Fariden raises his hand. Taevish raises his hand. Agalea raises her hand. Viyalo raises her hand. You say, "Fariden." Fariden says, "When it is full, your Moonskin returns to you." You nod. Vixonia's ears straighten up smartly as she gazes at Fariden, a look of pride on her face. Emyrose nibbles her lip thoughtfully. Karturis looks at Fariden and applauds! Viyalo says, "Roodie calls it his true skin..." You say, "Okay.. tie broken.. Fariden wins." You say, "It is." You nod to Viyalo. Taevish lets out a hearty cheer for Fariden! Ferkeutini looks over Fariden very closely. Raising her Prydaen bloodwine to Fariden, Vixonia gives him a toast. Koujia looks at Fariden and applauds! Emyrose quietly asks Vixonia, "Was it called 'moonskin' before the moon was blackened too or after?" Ahneya's salt crab says, "Good show Fariden." You say, "As Taev pinted out to me, we *should* call it our true skin." Vixonia says to Emyrose, "That is a fine question..." Taevish animatedly says, "After, only after." You grin at Taevish. Taevish nods to you. Emyrose grins at Taevish. Taevish beams at you! What a warm feeling! Emyrose says to Taevish, "Thank you." Fariden says to Emyrose, "Probably wasn't called anything, as no need to make a distinction was needed." Taevish beams at Emyrose! Viyalo says to Emyrose, "I know that one I think! They din' look like humans at all so there weren't any skin words." Emyrose grins at Viyalo. Karturis gets a sage-green herbalist's satchel embroidered with a bright red butterfly from inside his burlap bag. Viyalo says, "I liked raisin' my hand after everyone else so'd I look smart." You grin at Viyalo. Agalea grins, revealing her dimples. Ghust laughs at Viyalo. Fariden chuckles at Viyalo. Taevish laughs! Ghust lets out a hearty cheer for Viyalo! You say, "That concludes our competitions." Emyrose quietly asks Viyalo, "What were you going to do if you were called on?" Vixonia looks at you and applauds! Taevish shrugs. Taevish smirks. You exclaim, "Thank you all so much for joining us tonight!" Viyalo says to Emyrose, "Bluff my tail off." Taevish snickers at Viyalo. Aysta grins at Viyalo. Aei looks at you and applauds! Kaelie looks at you and lets out a hearty cheer on your behalf! Agalea looks at you, praising you and supporting you with her approval. Ghust quietly says to Viyalo, "Blame it on th' crab." Hoger howls an invitation to join him in the hunt. Lycette exclaims to you, "Great job tonight!" Viyalo nods at Ghust, obviously agreeing with his views. Karturis yells, "And da prize goes to...Fariden." Ghust looks at you and applauds! You say, "A special thanks to Vix and Kaelie and Kart." Mistanna says, "Thank you for having us." Hoger says, "I'm leaving that one alone." Karturis waves a sage-green herbalist's satchel embroidered with a bright red butterfly around. You say, "To all our storytellers!..." Kaelie smiles at you. You smile. Aei applauds. Allye grins at you. Karturis offers Fariden a sage-green herbalist's satchel embroidered with a bright red butterfly. Agalea says to you in Rakash, "A wonderful Moot." Fariden accepts Karturis's herbalist's satchel. Vixonia exclaims, "Thank you to the Order of the Black Fox for inviting us to join you all... and for co-hosting this!" Ahneya's salt crab exclaims, "I have witnessed to slaughter of my brethren and will spread the word and we will return to bury you. Bury you all!" You exclaim, "And our winners!" Emyrose nods at Vixonia, obviously agreeing with her views. Karturis bows to Fariden. Fariden sweeps a jaunty forest green top hat sporting a long glittering plume off his head and in front of him in a large arc, fluidly stepping backward and bowing to Karturis at the same time. Ahneya gazes at her crab. Aei laughs at Ahneya. Kaelie says, "Cheers to all of you for coming and making it fun with stories and enlightening those of us not in the Rakash know." Taevish howls joyfully, head thrown back to the sky. Ahneya puts her crab in a black haversack crafted from silk. Agalea says to Vixonia something in Prydaenese. Allye giggles at Ahneya. You exclaim, "And most of all to ALL of you for coming!"