Sentient Nature: Return of the Snake Queen (IC)

[Harbertia]

OOC

Liberation day was on it's third iteration; it was now the third anniversary of the day the Mongoose Samuel killed the serpentine Tyrantess Sevetea- and her family. It was a celebration of his creation of the governing council and the emancipation of the state's slave population. Shackles made of reeds where burned symbolically, and a theater troupe was event set to perform a dramatization of Samuel's victory yet behind closed doors- beyond the great glee of the streets- was a grave matter.

The council was in a secret session, they had little time- for the Chairman would soon have to address the crowd before a great leafy effigy of Sevetea was strung up the battlements and burned. The matter at hand was a state secret- Samuel missed one. The youngest surviving daughter of Sevetea yet lived and now it was undeniable to them that she had returned. They needed this handled- the people where still in a state of 'hero worship' regarding Samuel who had left them- had left this council in charge. He wasn't coming back, and even if he was coming back what would it say to the people if the Council was unable to preserve their freedom? Would Samuel have to accept Kingship as he had been offered?

The decision was made that day to continue to keep the rumors down low, to maintain the secrecy- to enlist the aid of a few to deal with this so that if things went foul- the council could feign ignorance of her return. These few would have to meet as this council was in that season- they'd have to be capable of sharing information and relaying it outside the public's eye. For there was a factor that as it caused fear in the council would only lead to panic among the public- the fact that some among the people where actually in league with this Sala, daughter of Sevetea. The last thing the council desired was for the people to loose their sense of unity and begin to fear one another.

======================

The operation has been going on for a week now, the associates in this endeavor of stopping Sala have largely been acting on their own. Following their own leads, getting information before organizing further with the others- their first real meeting would be soon- if not today it'd be tomorrow where upon they'd either continue to work as they have been or focus their efforts. Till that meeting they where on their own with their own assets- going about it their own way because the council directed them to do what they felt was best to do- and they had all done their own thing- with a few perhaps actually working together prior to the upcoming meeting.

[Frostyr]

Carnegie had been "officially" dismissed in nature of vacation for the third time over the course of his career, as this was the third annual Liberation Day. In reality, however, as the official Head of the Guard for the Council, he had been informed better: the line of the Tyrantess was far from killed, surprising for Samuel's effectiveness. Though soldiers and guards were given the day off, Carnegie thought that, ought of necessity at this point, the Council would have to convene to deal with the oncoming threat of the rising serpent.
Unwavered by these emotions, and hoping to deal with this threat once and for all, in the name of the people and his tribe, Carnegie set off to get work done. Sharpening his tusks and polishing his armor, he wanted to be prepared for any of the multitude of possibilities that could come out of the day. In the back of his mind, he thought of the possibility of going off and visiting his family, it had been months since he had last seen even a member of his family after all. But, then again, if they had known the circumstances, they would more than understand the need for his staying in case of any major news would spring up for Walsh and her safety.

[Harbertia]

"Freedom!" Someone shouted nearby as such was followed by a tremendous ARrroo! and laughter. "oh careful dear," came a small voice, "you've had too much of the wolf's berries." which was followed by a raspy retorc by a woman, "I'm fine Harold! It's just one!" Which was followed to further laughter from the alley. "Another berry," said a voice stronger then the rest, "to Samuel!"another voice a bit quizy, "Nay the Haveners *hic*" The small voice from before spoke up a little, "How about to them all?" The woman, a mouse like Harold interjected, "Except the owls." "EXCEPT THE OWLS!" They shouted together as berries in a basket where taken by the wolf to those around him. It was certainly a lively ally.

[Ralioskener]

High above, over the trees, a winged beast on the watch ripped through the air, casting a menacing shadow as a warning to all those below. But this owl wasn’t on the hunt for prey; no, he was on the hunt for Sala, the Tyrantee that had been haunting the council’s mind for a long while. Reisenthel had been on the watch for a while now, serving as a recon force, mainly for his own endeavours rather than for the council, though he did sometimes share information with them. However, at the moment the trail ran cold, as the evidenced pointed to nowhere; or rather, there was no evidence to be able to point to anything.

The owl gently glided down, perching himself on an empty branch.
“Damn it..”

Surveying the area for a while, he sighed, fluffing his wings and body.
How am I ever going to find that snake?

[Harbertia]

High above, over the trees, a winged beast on the watch ripped through the air, casting a menacing shadow as a warning to all those below. But this owl wasn’t on the hunt for prey; no, he was on the hunt for Sala, the Tyrantee that had been haunting the council’s mind for a long while. Reisenthel had been on the watch for a while now, serving as a recon force, mainly for his own endeavours rather than for the council, though he did sometimes share information with them. However, at the moment the trail ran cold, as the evidenced pointed to nowhere; or rather, there was no evidence to be able to point to anything.

The owl gently glided down, perching himself on an empty branch.
“Damn it..”

Surveying the area for a while, he sighed, fluffing his wings and body.
How am I ever going to find that snake?

The eyes of an Owl are keen in the night; even with the fires and the merriment below quick actions always have a way of catching the eye- yet among all this celebration is a behavior that may beg further investigation. The size of Walsh's active forces have diminished with many having leave for the celebration- and it would seem that something is amiss. Weather it has anything to do with one's search can not be certain but a short distance from your perch is a slender otter- avoiding the parties and light with something in hand- despite wearing a hood the object- while wrapped in some fabric- is noticeable when the Otter makes quick movements from shadow to shadow. Judging from the size of those it's avoided it would appear to be a young one- juvenile- not childish- that odd age one may recon from size alone.

Yet still there is another area of interest; a closed eatery- closed in a time when it would be most profitable to be open.

[Lusela]

Walsh ~ Liberation Day

"Show us your feathers again Azu! Come on! Do it for Liberation Day!" Miazma, a common turkey, yelled drunkenly. The two friends were in a bar celebrating Liberation Day, the bar was packed and full of different animals. Everyone, including Azu was quite drunk from sparkly berry drink.

"You know I hate doing that Miaz!" Azu paused, "Fine, for Liberation Day you cluck." With a showy swish of his tail he opened it up so all could see his grandeur. Those not black-out drunk Ooooed and Ahhed. He promptly closed his tail and laughed. "Miaz buy another round for these drunken beasts."

"You're the most wasted of them all!" laughed Miazma. "This round is on me! For Liberation Day!"

"For Liberation Day!" the crowd shouted in unison.

[Ralioskener]

Reisenthel watched the Otter, making sure to stay near the party happening down below and occasionally take glances at the merriment in order to avoid looking suspicious. He stilled, blending in with the shadows of the trees as he spied carefully, filling his mind with mental notes.

[Frostyr]

Emerging from his quarters after having successfully finished polishing his armor and readying his tusks for combat, Carnegie stepped out into the halls of the government building. Having been notoriously quiet from the lack of personnel on the inside, all having been dismissed for vacation for Liberation Day, Roth decided that it was probably for the best to keep tabs on both such important structures as the Council's building and generally populated areas. He wandered the halls, inspected the armory, and ran a wide security check, but so far, nothing had come up. Hearing sounds of joviality springing from the outside, Roth figured it wouldn't be the worst idea in the world to make sure everyone is doing alright out there. Exiting the large gates, He found large views of festivities, with citizens laughing and drinking happily, all in an ode to Samuel the Mongoose. Husbands and Wives joined together, kids ran playing, mice drunkenly sang together, and wolves howled. The simple sight gave the guard a smile on his face, despite the everlasting, trickling thought of the future of the serpents.
People bantered on an on, sometimes about the Owl's, sometimes about some other events going on, but the snap back to reality as Carnegie thought about the dangerous serpents' possible return had him returning to a more secure state of mind. No matter what people thought, to Carnegie, anyone taking a stand to fight against the Tyrantess's line is worthy of respect, even if they are a militia, so long as they're following the law, for the most part. Roth traveled around, and decided to head up to a guard tower, and get a better view of everything.

[Pax Nerdvana]

Razorclaw
Walsh
Liberation Day

Razorclaw stood on a battlement with his pack relatively near the Council's building, watching the festivities. He smelled cooking food, and the citizens. He thought back to three years ago, when he and the Westhaven pack had helped liberate this very town. He still bore scars from the vicious fighting. They lost two wolves that day, but extracted a terrible toll on the snakes. Right now though, they were helping to provide security, in case anyone was foolish enough to attack them. His wolves were warriors of the finest caliber. They had been trained by him. He had rebuilt his pack after they were almost wiped out by a rival pack many years earlier. Razorclaw said,"Rippersnapper, Sawtooth, go patrol the eastern edge of town. Deadeye, Rockback, you have the western side. Blackeye, Stripeback, you have the northern edge." They nodded and moved out.

[The Frozen Forest]

The lair of the King Cobra was as you might expect it. Built out of a water-eroded cave deep on the outskirts of Walsh, bones and blood littering the ground outside as though to announce to the world that the one who lived within was not to be trifled with. It was dark and wet and nothing truly envious, but served its purpose as a defensible home well. It had been constructed long ago, before his time and the time of his deceased ruler, several generations before and built from the labor of slaves, mice. Cells dotted the inside, torture rooms and feasting areas also being common. It was one of the Secret Polices headquarters, where the most dangerous mice were held away from society, assuming they weren't immediately eaten. Its location was unknown to everyone but the snakes who had died when the Mongoose Samuel "liberated" or destroyed the Snakes order.

It was empty for the moment however, as its occupier was busy on the hunt. It was unfortunate for the trio of mice that would be his next victims. Their hovel was close a long distance from the Village and so it was necessary for the mother and two children to take the shortcuts through the woods on dirt paths. It wasn't safe and they were aware of that, but it didn't change their decision. Sosikazu lay in wait in the nearby underbrush as the group passed below. Springing to action he struck downwards. He struck the mother mouse and sent her into the stone wall of the cliff, momentarily shocked. The children he enveloped with his tail, stopping them from even thinking of escape. "What fine children you have. What fine meals they would make. Sssurrely you want to see them live another day. You do not know my name, though you may have heard of me before. No matter, if you don't do exactly as i say you will never see your children again. I want to know what is happening in the village and you are going to tell me." The mouse woman had recovered and had decided not to run and abandon her children, instead propagating herself fearfully at his tail.

"Please! They are only children!" her fearful squeaking giving him a sense of control, he enjoyed that. "I want to know what the Council is doing for the Liberation Day festivities and you are going to bring me back something of substance. If you don't return in two days time i will eat your children. If you tell a soul about this, i will eat your children and then i will find you, and then i will eat you and your entire family. Do you understand?" His threat was a bluff, he couldn't penetrate the village yet or he would have. But the threat itself would hopefully be enough to ensure her loyalty. "Yes! Okay!" she agreed, terrified scent rolling off of her, he was hungry. "Meet me here when you have the information" satisfied with the mouse he left, the two children dangling from his jaws by their tails. He was careful not to impale them or act venomously. They would be useful hostages, hopefully.

[Harbertia]

Reisenthel watched the Otter, making sure to stay near the party happening down below and occasionally take glances at the merriment in order to avoid looking suspicious. He stilled, blending in with the shadows of the trees as he spied carefully, filling his mind with mental notes.

The Otter lowered his head as he entered a quiter portion of the streets. As he moved towards a small door- big enough for a mouse alone- but that door was part of a larger structure- one of those buildings with a shutter door large for other animals to enter- he pulled his hooded cloak up around the package and held the fabric of the cloak in place with right paw- pressing the package against him with the elbow of his left which he raised and then as best he could manage knock on the door though it came more as a hammering sound which caused him to moved back and glance left towards some of the merriment.

A voice from inside returned; "What is it? Someone shackled?"

The otter pattered closer; "Do you have any reeds?"

There was a pause

The Otter continued; "Reeds to bind?"

There was a pause before the shutters began to raise- the establishment was a workshop of sorts; the larger room next to the dwelling a place for armoring, fittings, and the servicing of larger mammals. It was not at all an alien sight to you. But the door opened only a little as the otter put the package down and began to push it under the shutters.....

[Harbertia]

Emerging from his quarters after having successfully finished polishing his armor and readying his tusks for combat, Carnegie stepped out into the halls of the government building. Having been notoriously quiet from the lack of personnel on the inside, all having been dismissed for vacation for Liberation Day, Roth decided that it was probably for the best to keep tabs on both such important structures as the Council's building and generally populated areas. He wandered the halls, inspected the armory, and ran a wide security check, but so far, nothing had come up. Hearing sounds of joviality springing from the outside, Roth figured it wouldn't be the worst idea in the world to make sure everyone is doing alright out there. Exiting the large gates, He found large views of festivities, with citizens laughing and drinking happily, all in an ode to Samuel the Mongoose. Husbands and Wives joined together, kids ran playing, mice drunkenly sang together, and wolves howled. The simple sight gave the guard a smile on his face, despite the everlasting, trickling thought of the future of the serpents.
People bantered on an on, sometimes about the Owl's, sometimes about some other events going on, but the snap back to reality as Carnegie thought about the dangerous serpents' possible return had him returning to a more secure state of mind. No matter what people thought, to Carnegie, anyone taking a stand to fight against the Tyrantess's line is worthy of respect, even if they are a militia, so long as they're following the law, for the most part. Roth traveled around, and decided to head up to a guard tower, and get a better view of everything.

The courtyard was the most lively of areas in Walsh, the effigy of Sevetea was perhaps a little oversized this time but that'd only make it's burning on the walls of the keep a brighter sight. The burning of shackles, made of Reeds- to commemorate the actual mass emancipation that followed- was underway and that fire- which would be carried by a torch to the Effigy of Sevetea- was burning well. The Council it's self was leaving the government building- odd some might think but mostly you as you had just been in there and it's your role to protect them. They where leaving by bridge towards the Keep- it was a notable set up. The old Keep, from which the Tyrantess had lorded- was now just a military fort- with the council meeting nearby. They'd be making their way to the keep so as to give a speech before the torch lit the effigy aflame. Namely such speech would be given by the Chairman. You where familiar with them as expected of your role; the Chairman was a mouse- he had been the slave of the Court Steward under Sevetea's reign. From which he had an understanding of economics. Marconii was his name. The rest of the council was similar except that a few of it's other members had actually fought in the revolt- Marconii did play a role by locking certain rooms in the Keep (having been the keeper of his master's keys)- this had hindered the ability of the loyalist from escaping and likely aided Samuel's triumph. There was a red bird, who had been Samuel's eyes- a scout of sorts- prior to the revolt and during it's assault on the keep. Her name was unimaginably Red. Red was perhaps the most talkative but also unfocused members of the council. There was of course 4 others but they didn't really spark much to mind at this time. Howard- was a scribe for the council- mostly coming to mind because he was chasing after some scroll- he fumbled like that often. The other four where the ones who had more say but also most - ambiguity- a bit mysterious. They didn't address the people as often as Marconii or Red but worked together to have a heavy voice.

[Frostyr]

Emerging from his quarters after having successfully finished polishing his armor and readying his tusks for combat, Carnegie stepped out into the halls of the government building. Having been notoriously quiet from the lack of personnel on the inside, all having been dismissed for vacation for Liberation Day, Roth decided that it was probably for the best to keep tabs on both such important structures as the Council's building and generally populated areas. He wandered the halls, inspected the armory, and ran a wide security check, but so far, nothing had come up. Hearing sounds of joviality springing from the outside, Roth figured it wouldn't be the worst idea in the world to make sure everyone is doing alright out there. Exiting the large gates, He found large views of festivities, with citizens laughing and drinking happily, all in an ode to Samuel the Mongoose. Husbands and Wives joined together, kids ran playing, mice drunkenly sang together, and wolves howled. The simple sight gave the guard a smile on his face, despite the everlasting, trickling thought of the future of the serpents.
People bantered on an on, sometimes about the Owl's, sometimes about some other events going on, but the snap back to reality as Carnegie thought about the dangerous serpents' possible return had him returning to a more secure state of mind. No matter what people thought, to Carnegie, anyone taking a stand to fight against the Tyrantess's line is worthy of respect, even if they are a militia, so long as they're following the law, for the most part. Roth traveled around, and decided to head up to a guard tower, and get a better view of everything.

The courtyard was the most lively of areas in Walsh, the effigy of Sevetea was perhaps a little oversized this time but that'd only make it's burning on the walls of the keep a brighter sight. The burning of shackles, made of Reeds- to commemorate the actual mass emancipation that followed- was underway and that fire- which would be carried by a torch to the Effigy of Sevetea- was burning well. The Council it's self was leaving the government building- odd some might think but mostly you as you had just been in there and it's your role to protect them. They where leaving by bridge towards the Keep- it was a notable set up. The old Keep, from which the Tyrantess had lorded- was now just a military fort- with the council meeting nearby. They'd be making their way to the keep so as to give a speech before the torch lit the effigy aflame. Namely such speech would be given by the Chairman. You where familiar with them as expected of your role; the Chairman was a mouse- he had been the slave of the Court Steward under Sevetea's reign. From which he had an understanding of economics. Marconii was his name. The rest of the council was similar except that a few of it's other members had actually fought in the revolt- Marconii did play a role by locking certain rooms in the Keep (having been the keeper of his master's keys)- this had hindered the ability of the loyalist from escaping and likely aided Samuel's triumph. There was a red bird, who had been Samuel's eyes- a scout of sorts- prior to the revolt and during it's assault on the keep. Her name was unimaginably Red. Red was perhaps the most talkative but also unfocused members of the council. There was of course 4 others but they didn't really spark much to mind at this time. Howard- was a scribe for the council- mostly coming to mind because he was chasing after some scroll- he fumbled like that often. The other four where the ones who had more say but also most - ambiguity- a bit mysterious. They didn't address the people as often as Marconii or Red but worked together to have a heavy voice.

Carnegie overlooked the area from the watchtower with pride of the accomplishments of the past. Sure, he hadn't originally aligned with the council, but how could he not enjoy a celebration to the death of the Tyrantess, the one responsible for the deaths of multiple Babirusas, and even, through transitive property of her pawns, the scars on his own body? Either way, it would be enjoyable to watch her burn once more. Suddenly, a sharp memory encroached in his mind: The Council would be brought together for the speeches. "Damnit, we cannot allow anything to happen tonight. Any injuries in the council will destroy the hearts and minds of the people." the Guardsman thought, remembering that the serpents had not yet been destroyed. He donned his armor, and set out towards the Keep, ensuring the law was followed along the way, even from the rowdy drunkards.
He made eye contact with the council members, specifically Marconii, but did not climb atop the stage, for no matter how great of an orator a Babirusa may be, his facial features did not attract an audience very well. He decided to sit close to the speaking area and the effigy. He knew that these fears were the fruits of a fearful past, but he couldn't trust the situation. For this had been the perfect storm: Guardsmen and Soldiers had been dismissed to see their families, the people were together in mass; futhermore, while the Council was fantastic for governing Walsh, he could not trust that unguarded, Mice, Birds, and other smaller beings could defend themselves against a Serpentine hoard.

[Ralioskener]

Reisenthel watched the Otter, making sure to stay near the party happening down below and occasionally take glances at the merriment in order to avoid looking suspicious. He stilled, blending in with the shadows of the trees as he spied carefully, filling his mind with mental notes.

The Otter lowered his head as he entered a quiter portion of the streets. As he moved towards a small door- big enough for a mouse alone- but that door was part of a larger structure- one of those buildings with a shutter door large for other animals to enter- he pulled his hooded cloak up around the package and held the fabric of the cloak in place with right paw- pressing the package against him with the elbow of his left which he raised and then as best he could manage knock on the door though it came more as a hammering sound which caused him to moved back and glance left towards some of the merriment.

A voice from inside returned; "What is it? Someone shackled?"

The otter pattered closer; "Do you have any reeds?"

There was a pause

The Otter continued; "Reeds to bind?"

There was a pause before the shutters began to raise- the establishment was a workshop of sorts; the larger room next to the dwelling a place for armoring, fittings, and the servicing of larger mammals. It was not at all an alien sight to you. But the door opened only a little as the otter put the package down and began to push it under the shutters.....

Reisenthel thought for a bit. He couldn't be too overbearing and just pry into the lives of civilians, but this did seem a tad suspicious; after all, the burning of the shackles was already going through. He decided to spy a bit, and maybe find out more about the package.

The Owl glided silently under the cover of the trees' shadows, perching inconspicuously on a branch near the strange structure. He watched the Otter and the door carefully, playing out all the possible scenarios in his head.

[Yellowstone-]

In the middle of th night, a strange group of seemly tired scorpions are seen wandering the roads with tribal-like skin paintings on them and come from a far away place. In the group of scorpions, one scorpion, called Sino is as tired and hungry as the others and are not sure if they will be welcomed here.

[Pax Nerdvana]

In the middle of th night, a strange group of seemly tired scorpions are seen wandering the roads with tribal-like skin paintings on them and come from a far away place. In the group of scorpions, one scorpion, called Sino is as tired and hungry as the others and are not sure if they will be welcomed here.

The South side of Walsh
Blackeye and Stripeback
Blackeye and Stripeback were patrolling on the south side of Walsh, when they came upon a group of scorpions. Blackeye, the senior of the two said,"Who goes there? I know you're scorpions of some sort. My nose tells me as much. Stripeback, howl the warning signal off to Razorclaw." Stripeback nodded, and let out a short, sharp howl.
Razorclaw
Razorclaw heard Stripeback's alert signal. He sent back a howl of acknowledgment. He would be ready to call in the rest of the pack if it was an attack.

[Yellowstone-]

In the middle of th night, a strange group of seemly tired scorpions are seen wandering the roads with tribal-like skin paintings on them and come from a far away place. In the group of scorpions, one scorpion, called Sino is as tired and hungry as the others and are not sure if they will be welcomed here.

The South side of Walsh
Blackeye and Stripeback
Blackeye and Stripeback were patrolling on the south side of Walsh, when they came upon a group of scorpions. Blackeye, the senior of the two said,"Who goes there? I know you're scorpions of some sort. My nose tells me as much. Stripeback, howl the warning signal off to Razorclaw." Stripeback nodded, and let out a short, sharp howl.
Razorclaw
Razorclaw heard Stripeback's alert signal. He sent back a howl of acknowledgment. He would be ready to call in the rest of the pack if it was an attack.

The lead scorpion steps out from the group and signals them to step back, “We come from southern deserts, we were forced out of our lands when a great drought struck, many of our tribespeople are dead”

[Pax Nerdvana]

The South side of Walsh
Blackeye and Stripeback
Blackeye and Stripeback were patrolling on the south side of Walsh, when they came upon a group of scorpions. Blackeye, the senior of the two said,"Who goes there? I know you're scorpions of some sort. My nose tells me as much. Stripeback, howl the warning signal off to Razorclaw." Stripeback nodded, and let out a short, sharp howl.
Razorclaw
Razorclaw heard Stripeback's alert signal. He sent back a howl of acknowledgment. He would be ready to call in the rest of the pack if it was an attack.

The lead scorpion steps out from the group and signals them to step back, “We come from southern deserts, we were forced out of our lands when a great drought struck, many of our tribespeople are dead”

Blackeye

Blackeye looked at them. He said,"What are your names? I've similar tales of tragedy before. I'm Blackeye, of Westhaven Pack. Stripeback, signal that they're probably friendly." Stripeback said,"Yes sir." Stripeback let out a long, low howl.

Razorclaw
Razorclaw howled back that he understood. He said to the two remaining warriors from his pack, Steeljaw and Ironfang,"I don't believe we're needed, but you tow are to go relieve Rippersnapper and Sawtooth." Steeljaw and Ironfang said,"Yes sir.", and moved out.

[NewLakotah]

Raolin Blackclaw
Outsid of town

Raolin was as relaxed as you could possibly be, lounging high, high in a tall oak tree, towering over the distant town. He preferred it this way. Him away from the town. He didn’t dislike the town. More, he actually liked it, and the townsfolk in it. That being said, this was where home was.

Raolin was from the Blackclaw family, though it would be better described as the Blackclaw clan. It was a range of roving wild squirrels. They had been nomadic for as long as anyone could remember, and for as long as the stories would go back. They had separated and forsaken civilized life, even though other squirrels readily joined in with other woodland creatures to help build and create a new basis of civilization. These members saw this is as a forsaking of their own kind. A sacrifice of almost sacrilegious proportions. Thus the few families of squirrels separated themselves and remained in their state of semi-nomadic wandering. An that they remained until that fateful nights all those moons ago. Raolin could barely remember it really, when the snakes had attacked. He was but a child at that time. However a few haunting memories remained with him to this day, haunting him when he would close his eyes to sleep. The screams of his friends and families, his mother shaking him awake and telling him to run. He did run and managed to escape, hiding in the bushes as the rest of his clan either ran away or were killed, watching from the bushes as the snakes slithered around and eventually far away. He had continued to wait, not moving. Too scared to venture out himself. Eventually he did muster the courage to venture out. He wandered aimlessly, looking for any signs of his family or the rest of the clan. Raolin eventually stumble into a town and was welcomed and taken care of by the townsfolk. He grew up strong and his wildness and aptitude with a bow made he well liked as a guard and warrior, someone who could protect the town when any predators or any sort of enemies showed up. However, he enjoyed remaining outside of the town. Often going alone on his own wanderings and adventures. Through this he had earned his fair share of scars and fought in his fair share of battles.

The sound from the town awoke him from his half-asleep dreams. He turned his eye down to see the the bustle around the town. He had almost forgotten. This was their third annual celebration of the liberation of the town from the snakes. He stirred slightly now, rising up and yawning a bit. He then quickly scurried down. Tonight was as good of a night as any to rejoin the town, their would be the festivities and certainly a good amount of food and drink to be had. Raolin had been out on one of his many wanderers over the past 3 days, but had remained relatively close. He scurried quickly down the side of the tree and walked quickly back into town. He looked around at the various celebratory events taking place. He soon drifted into the crowd and began to join in on the celebration.

[Yellowstone-]

The lead scorpion steps out from the group and signals them to step back, “We come from southern deserts, we were forced out of our lands when a great drought struck, many of our tribespeople are dead”

Blackeye

Blackeye looked at them. He said,"What are your names? I've similar tales of tragedy before. I'm Blackeye, of Westhaven Pack. Stripeback, signal that they're probably friendly." Stripeback said,"Yes sir." Stripeback let out a long, low howl.

Razorclaw
Razorclaw howled back that he understood. He said to the two remaining warriors from his pack, Steeljaw and Ironfang,"I don't believe we're needed, but you tow are to go relieve Rippersnapper and Sawtooth." Steeljaw and Ironfang said,"Yes sir.", and moved out.

“My name is Youn” another scorpion steps up “My name is Sino” “We come in peace”

[Harbertia]

The Otter lowered his head as he entered a quiter portion of the streets. As he moved towards a small door- big enough for a mouse alone- but that door was part of a larger structure- one of those buildings with a shutter door large for other animals to enter- he pulled his hooded cloak up around the package and held the fabric of the cloak in place with right paw- pressing the package against him with the elbow of his left which he raised and then as best he could manage knock on the door though it came more as a hammering sound which caused him to moved back and glance left towards some of the merriment.

A voice from inside returned; "What is it? Someone shackled?"

The otter pattered closer; "Do you have any reeds?"

There was a pause

The Otter continued; "Reeds to bind?"

There was a pause before the shutters began to raise- the establishment was a workshop of sorts; the larger room next to the dwelling a place for armoring, fittings, and the servicing of larger mammals. It was not at all an alien sight to you. But the door opened only a little as the otter put the package down and began to push it under the shutters.....

Reisenthel thought for a bit. He couldn't be too overbearing and just pry into the lives of civilians, but this did seem a tad suspicious; after all, the burning of the shackles was already going through. He decided to spy a bit, and maybe find out more about the package.

The Owl glided silently under the cover of the trees' shadows, perching inconspicuously on a branch near the strange structure. He watched the Otter and the door carefully, playing out all the possible scenarios in his head.

As the package slips under the shutters the juvenile otter, his chin to the ground, taps his left paw to the ground anxiously, the light from with in the structure illuminating the street in as much as the slightly open shutters would allow. With the package under the shutter and in the workshop a single walnut rolls towards the Otter as the shutters close. The otter is shocked but also something else as he takes the nut and ponders weither or not to knock again - his paw going to knock and then receding back to his side as he walks right along the street casually making his way from the building in disappointment.

[Harbertia]

Raolin Blackclaw
Outsid of town

Raolin was as relaxed as you could possibly be, lounging high, high in a tall oak tree, towering over the distant town. He preferred it this way. Him away from the town. He didn’t dislike the town. More, he actually liked it, and the townsfolk in it. That being said, this was where home was.

Raolin was from the Blackclaw family, though it would be better described as the Blackclaw clan. It was a range of roving wild squirrels. They had been nomadic for as long as anyone could remember, and for as long as the stories would go back. They had separated and forsaken civilized life, even though other squirrels readily joined in with other woodland creatures to help build and create a new basis of civilization. These members saw this is as a forsaking of their own kind. A sacrifice of almost sacrilegious proportions. Thus the few families of squirrels separated themselves and remained in their state of semi-nomadic wandering. An that they remained until that fateful nights all those moons ago. Raolin could barely remember it really, when the snakes had attacked. He was but a child at that time. However a few haunting memories remained with him to this day, haunting him when he would close his eyes to sleep. The screams of his friends and families, his mother shaking him awake and telling him to run. He did run and managed to escape, hiding in the bushes as the rest of his clan either ran away or were killed, watching from the bushes as the snakes slithered around and eventually far away. He had continued to wait, not moving. Too scared to venture out himself. Eventually he did muster the courage to venture out. He wandered aimlessly, looking for any signs of his family or the rest of the clan. Raolin eventually stumble into a town and was welcomed and taken care of by the townsfolk. He grew up strong and his wildness and aptitude with a bow made he well liked as a guard and warrior, someone who could protect the town when any predators or any sort of enemies showed up. However, he enjoyed remaining outside of the town. Often going alone on his own wanderings and adventures. Through this he had earned his fair share of scars and fought in his fair share of battles.

The sound from the town awoke him from his half-asleep dreams. He turned his eye down to see the the bustle around the town. He had almost forgotten. This was their third annual celebration of the liberation of the town from the snakes. He stirred slightly now, rising up and yawning a bit. He then quickly scurried down. Tonight was as good of a night as any to rejoin the town, their would be the festivities and certainly a good amount of food and drink to be had. Raolin had been out on one of his many wanderers over the past 3 days, but had remained relatively close. He scurried quickly down the side of the tree and walked quickly back into town. He looked around at the various celebratory events taking place. He soon drifted into the crowd and began to join in on the celebration.

"Freedom!" Someone shouted nearby as such was followed by a tremendous ARrroo! and laughter. "oh careful dear," came a small voice, "you've had too much of the wolf's berries." which was followed by a raspy retorc by a woman, "I'm fine Harold! It's just one!" Which was followed to further laughter from the alley. "Another berry," said a voice stronger then the rest, "to Samuel!"another voice a bit quizy, "Nay the Haveners *hic*" The small voice from before spoke up a little, "How about to them all?" The woman, a mouse like Harold interjected, "Except the owls." "EXCEPT THE OWLS!" They shouted together as berries in a basket where taken by the wolf to those around him. It was certainly a lively ally.

Presently....

A wolf lay on it's side in an Alley way mumbling; "We should... get to the courtyard." That mouse named Harold was proping his head up with one hand looking towards the woman mouse on the ground, "I don't think we'll be gonnnaing anying wearz." The wolf moaned as he got up and paddered towards the she mouse lowing his maw towards her before raising his head up to the sky and taking a deep breath. Exhaling as he lowered his head again he somewhat clumsedly took the berry basket in his mouth; "Puht hr n de maskett." Harold chuckled a bit, "Whatz yew say?" The wolf let the basket fall from his mouth and slumped back onto the alley ground as he began to show signs of slumber. Harold took upon himself the same notion passing out where he was propped up in the alley way."

Meanwhile the largest of the crowds would have to be in the courtyard where the great burning of shackles (made of Reeds) was underway as a prelude to the Burning of Sevetea's effigy on the walls of the keep. It would be the highlight of the celebration- literally a high light. Of course there would be a speech, but people one would imagine come mostly for the burning. Already smoke rose into the night sky forming a bit of a cloud over Walsh.

[Harbertia]

Walsh ~ Liberation Day

"Show us your feathers again Azu! Come on! Do it for Liberation Day!" Miazma, a common turkey, yelled drunkenly. The two friends were in a bar celebrating Liberation Day, the bar was packed and full of different animals. Everyone, including Azu was quite drunk from sparkly berry drink.

"You know I hate doing that Miaz!" Azu paused, "Fine, for Liberation Day you cluck." With a showy swish of his tail he opened it up so all could see his grandeur. Those not black-out drunk Ooooed and Ahhed. He promptly closed his tail and laughed. "Miaz buy another round for these drunken beasts."

"You're the most wasted of them all!" laughed Miazma. "This round is on me! For Liberation Day!"

"For Liberation Day!" the crowd shouted in unison.

Serving bowls and tankards alike where filled. A brown owl upon his talons made his way to the table, "Might not be a beauty contest here but I'll say- everyone enjoys a good round. The name's Hienrich, your Azu right?" Hienrich tilted his head in that odd owl fashion where it looks like it might come right off revealing a prominent scar around which feathers are lacking about the neck before righting his head, "And I do hope I'm not wrong, I'd hate to offend the pal of the fowl buying the round." He said situating himself at the table.

[Pax Nerdvana]

Blackeye

Blackeye looked at them. He said,"What are your names? I've similar tales of tragedy before. I'm Blackeye, of Westhaven Pack. Stripeback, signal that they're probably friendly." Stripeback said,"Yes sir." Stripeback let out a long, low howl.

Razorclaw
Razorclaw howled back that he understood. He said to the two remaining warriors from his pack, Steeljaw and Ironfang,"I don't believe we're needed, but you tow are to go relieve Rippersnapper and Sawtooth." Steeljaw and Ironfang said,"Yes sir.", and moved out.

“My name is Youn” another scorpion steps up “My name is Sino” “We come in peace”

Blackeye
Blackeye said,"Ok. You lot might want to be careful around here though. Insects are a major food source in these parts."

[Yellowstone-]

“My name is Youn” another scorpion steps up “My name is Sino” “We come in peace”

Blackeye
Blackeye said,"Ok. You lot might want to be careful around here though. Insects are a major food source in these parts."

“Food?” Says Sino, he gulps “Also we have heard about a war against snakes”