Forgive me Father, For I have Sinned

 Rise and take a step forward. He did so, coming to stand alongside Kuhn as one of the ones who would pass judgment this day. He could feel the tension rising around them and he wondered what would be said.

 Would blood be shed?

 He hoped not and would work his hardest to see to it that that didn't happen... if it did he would make sure that the children present were not injured in any bouts of violence, that would be the greatest fault of all.

the staff team luvs u

Soon after he and Ira's arrival to the land intended to host the Northern council, other groups began to arrive. Quicksilver regarded each party quietly, curiously searching their faces for those that might be familiar. Valeska's, certainly, was one he recalled. She'd settled her pack in territory that bordered Vanderfell's and dubbed it Elysium, which had roused mixed emotions in the silverwhite on learning of its conception. He still did not understand why the name of the sterling wolfess' pack made him feel homesick for a place he could not remember, and the uncertainty stuck with him.

There was a cub among their number, he noticed with interest, though it was the little spotted girl that filtered in with the next group that truly concerned him. His pale eyes regarded the youngster in silence and he saw the anxiety with which she carried herself; a murder trial was not something for children ought to witness. He shifted, making to exchange a fleeting and troubled glance with his companion before he looked back and found himself gazing upon the features of yet another she-wolf he recognised from a time long passed, from the very place in which they'd come to unite.

Olive, she said her name was, and something sparked uncomfortably within his chest. Quicksilver gazed at her for longer than he should have, wondering why the priestess' offering of her calling ignited a new thirst for knowledge in him, though his focus was turned toward a particular individual as Olive made way for him.

Kuhn. The druid inhaled a short, sharp breath as the cat's silvery stare quickly found the place where he and Ira stood. Quicksilver blinked back at him. Their paths had never crossed, but he had no desire in him to have any sort of association with the striped beast who'd so harassed his mate. Reiko never wished to look upon his hide again, had spoke against Quicksilver even attending the trial, but in that moment he found that he was glad to have come. He was glad to have finally looked upon the enemy of Shiroshika at last.

The feline looked away, and Quicksilver realised he'd been holding his breath. He exhaled and regained his grounding by acknowledging yet another familiar face. A dark female, blue-black and moonlight, with vibrant blue eyes had come equipped with a whole pack at her flanks. He tried to remember her name but could not, so turned attention to Olive once more as she took charge of the meeting.

A young one had been murdered, much to his surprise, and Quicksilver gritted his teeth to listen on. A daughter of Northfall, allegedly slain by one of their number. He glanced around as the chosen council and accused were invited forth, unsure who was the latter. He hadn't wanted to play any part in the judgement of another's life, but as Vanderfell's High Queen strode forth he found himself swiftly alongside her with his own pups in mind.

He, too, would want justice to be served should anyone rob him of his heart.


the staff team luvs u

^^

Freya was a lot of things and she had lived many lives where her role was different, she knew how these council meetings could go especially when the topic was one quite sensitive. She only hoped that Ragnar would hold himself as the King he was, coolly and without a temper. The freckled woman hoped that the accused would stand equally as respectful, the blue-touched woman coming to step forward as the High Priestess controlled the meeting.

It was easy to not see the bigger picture of things, this Freya knew -- it was a mistake those in their first lives often made and Freya was glad that it was her that stood beside Ragnar and not one that was violence first and brain later. She would glance to Ragnar, a small smile just for him on her lips. No matter how it would go, she would stay true to her experience but also, she would have Ragnar's back if tooth or claw came near him. He was right in his misery for his daughters lost life and she had left her own eight children with others who she had threatened to ensure their safety.

Yet, she knew inner-pack conflicts were easier to handle and deal with than pack on pack. Pack on Pack didn't stop to the packs involved, hence the reason they were even here in the first place and it was dangerous waters to wade in. Freya tilted her chin as she stood forward, the council rep for Northfall standing tall but relaxed. Complications would arise with thoughts and words, this she knew, she only hoped that she might be able to guide it in a way that was satisfactory for her and for Ragnar. ^^

the staff team luvs u

Liutheri had practically fumbled about for the next few days after @Ira had given him the run-down for their journey. The next nights to come he would think about this and of how he would ensure the safety of and make Ira proud. He had been a deserter, a failure, yet the queen was still giving him chances to improve his life and show Vanderfell that he was worthy despite his lack of heritage and previous failures. He had been worried to leave the others, hoping the pups and his more adventurous litter-mates would behave while they were gone. Yet he doubted it.

They traveled to the winter wonderlands, his first time leaving the mountains. Every sight filled him with wonder as they picked up a @Quicksilver , whom he tried to ignore for the most part aside with peppered formalities. He remembered the pale wolf, what he still didn't exactly understand was why Quicksilver would ever leave Vanderfell. If he was to wed his mate should have come joined their pack instead, not Shiroshika. The pack meant everything to him but he knew he had no right to feel so high and mighty due to his own desertion. Thus an endless cycle of frustration and self-deprecation danced in his head that made ever-so moody around the frail male.

As they arrived at Elsewhen the council was a bit of a culture shock for the wolf that came from a more humble and isolated environment. He made sure to stay close to Ira, surveying the area with bright sharp eyes. As Ira introduced herself, Liutheri would dip his head in polite greeting and acknowledgement. He was no one important, thus he did not believe his name needed to be exchanged. He simply went in to listen mode, getting to hear all sorts of names and see an array of faces. Good thing his memory was decent.

He couldn't help the shock expression that formed as he saw the pups that others brought along with them. This was no place for children, what fools! He had to fight the maternal urge to go over to the children, wanting to usher them into some sort of crevice before standing guard for them for an eternity. But he ignored his instincts, focused and matured enough to stay by Ira's side. And he was glad he did. @Kuhn A large stripe creature appeared, he presumed to be a tiger from distant stories. His exotic colors and appearance stood out, but not as much as the glare he send to his adopted mother. Guardian might have been a better word, he did not have the privileged to belong to blood.

Immediately he stood taller, walking between them to Ira's shoulder/flank as he stared back along with her at him, daring the giant to make a move, waiting for the slightest extension of muscle. He did not care if it was a losing fight, he was but a bee meant to sting anything that got near the queen, his life meant nothing besides that, a shield through-an-through.

His fur would start to bristle but thankfully everyone moved on with the court's activities, and he followed alongside Ira, casting one last warning shot at Kuhn before focusing back to his job. Hearing the events that partook caused his heart to weep but on the outside all he wore was a tight frown. What a tragedy, can nothing be sacred? His first view of the situation was to favor Northfall, but he would listen and consider and see what the others decided. For it was not his place to judge, only to act. Glancing at Quicksilver to make sure he was still safe (he was under protection via proxy after all), he took a deep breath and tried to spend some of his time aside from his two companions at times to survey all he could. Making sure the whole area in general was safe. He REALLY did not want any more dead children to domino from this event.
the staff team luvs u

Chasm had solemnly walked alongside his pack, dreading every day since this court had been dated. His head and tail drooped as he trudged along, trying not to tremble from the emotions, his band he kept around his face had been left back at his den, he was scared of losing it here among any chaos or denial of items. Normally he would be excited as can be at all the sights, thinking of what kind of arc this was for his destiny. But all he could do was stare at @Vendrussel's back.

He wondered how accurate this would be to a court case. Did they have a Judge Judy? Lawyers? Innocent until proven guilty?! They probably should have hired a professional, maybe an actual living shark (was probably the same thing). As the story rang out, Chasm wanted to fight, the story was so one-sided! Already biases lingered and threatened to rot good integrity. But he had seen enough court shows in his previous life, they always started out bad but ended well, he had to believe in that.

His attention snapped back to his leader looked back at them and smile. Oh no. The angle, the timing, she was raising all the red flags right now. All he could do was stare back, the tears once again falling. He would, without thinking, go towards her. He would be her lawyer, maybe a distraction to escape even. Childish desperation and antics wanted to overwhelmed him, but another wolf, he wasn't sure yet who due to his focus on the navy wolf; nudge him to where he needed to be with the others. He would mouth something to Vendrussel as he tried to fight the force that pushed him for but only a moment as he mouthed his last exchange to her, fork tongue sticking and poking out at times, a unique sight that might surprise some here. Likely only she and a few sharp eyes would have understood what he mouthed or notice it at the very least.

"You are going to be okay, I promise."

After that, he allowed the other wolf to escort him to his place as his body broke from sobs, not able to hold it back.
the staff team luvs u

Everyone had seemingly arrived, and Valeska made a point to sneak a glance at each new face that now circled them.

@Vendrussel's entrance was the most impactful - she had arrived with the full strength of her pack behind her, head high and proud, striding in with a confident, albeit resigned air. This was a grim occasion and she was clearly trying to show a brave face, and the silver wolf admired her for it; for as it stood, no matter how they deliberated, whatever the outcome - someone would lose dearly today.

She shot another glance back toward @Ragnar and his kin, brows knitting together in worry. Northfall firmly believed in an eye for an eye, and she could see no ending to this story where Vendrussel could live and they might be satiated.

Was there any hope? Had it truly been a murder made in cold blood?

What caught her most by surprise was the advent of a very large, very eloquent polar bear introducing himself as @Thraximundar. She had never encountered one before (though his kind had been seen trundling about in tundras past, keeping a safe distance) and wondered who he had become entangled with to be involved in the proceedings, but he seemed like a nice enough fellow, and anyway, there was a great big tiger standing out like a sore thumb who had nearly been slain by two of the packs assembled here, and -

Anyway, it was a lot.

@Dimitri looked frightened, and Valeska reached back to nuzzle him reassuringly where he sat near their fellow Elysium wolves. “Do not be afraid - I shall protect you,” she whispered to him quietly, so low that the soft exhalation of her breath ruffled the just the small, downy hairs atop his head. “This is to be a peaceful gathering, although it may become heated. Whatever happens, I and @Tallulah and @Urszula will not let anything happen to you - and gods forbid, anyone else.”

Valeska smiled affectionately, then straightened back up.

@Olive was about to speak.

the staff team luvs u

Round 2 begins now! As the main testimony portion of the trail, only @Ragnar and @Vendrussel are allowed to respond (& in that order). Afterwards, Olive will transition to questions from the court.

PPing all court members as having stepped forward, feel free to DM me if you want me to refer to your character doing something different :)

---

Olive looked around at the faces that stepped forward, wolf and tiger and bear alike. All here, to represent justice on a greater level. It was an unfortunate reality that such a thing was necessitated out of fear, which was, without a doubt, what propelled the packs to involve themselves to a degree they would not have otherwise. They feared what fallout a war might bring; they feared what would become of alliances, possibly shattered in the summons of war went unanswered. Whatever was to happen in this place, it certainly could not be said that the realm had not strived for peace, above all else.

Her gaze caught that of the curious silverwhite from Shiroshika, who looked keenly familiar of levels both new and old. She took a deep breath that flared her ribcage, willing herself not to ponder this too deeply at the present. The sylph felt the weight of all the eyes of the crowd upon her, and she glanced around wondering what exactly she was to say next, and for a moment she was entirely unsure and a blush of redness colored her cheeks — that was, until she looked upon Vendrussel.

It was a sad affair, to be caught in the sea dragon's position. Held between the needs to defend disputed land, the needs to uphold ones dingity and... the desire to protect the progeny of another she did not know. Olive could not say with certainty that she would have done anything differently, had she been in either Vendrussel or Ragnar's shoes. That's exactly what made the matter so difficult to judge, and she was glad to many different proficient minds had come to convene on the matter. Olive attempted to convey a look of empathy to the convicted woman, perhaps once a friend, before speaking.

"Vendrussel Fellfang of Dragonford Isles,” Olive called out, voice steady as the words came easily to her memory once more. "You have been charged with the murder of Ynness Ragnarsdóttir, and are called to answer for your crimes.” If there was any fact that was true, it might only be this; let it be know. Everything after this moment, was pure conjecture.

"Ragnar Stormborn, King of Northfall, may first state and make known his claims to the court.” at the mention of the golden Viking, her head pivoted to look at him, pleased that he would finally have the platform necessary to seek proper vengeance for his eternal loss. Olive glanced up to the sky, an overcast, chilly grey. "Only then, will Vendrussel be allowed to give her defense.” another look around the circle, Olive attempted to make eye contact with every member of the court. "Heed their testimony well.”

With a deeper bow, Olive drifted backward and took her place amongst the rotunda. "When you are ready, King @Ragnar,” she beckoned him forward, ceding the floor to the words of a father and a leader, whose legacy had been scorned and desecrated.

the staff team luvs u

Freya was at the side of her King all the while. His trust in her obvious, given he had bestowed upon her the want for her word to be the representation of Northfall. If it was not for her trust and love for Northfall, it was the trust and love of herself. Freya was a proud woman and she would not see Northfall be belittled so, lest it look poorly for herself, as well. But not only this knowledge of her personality, but the knowledge Ragnar knew of her beyond this body, beyond this life. Freya had lived many times and had seen many things and with it, he had every hope that she would find the solution needed to right the imbalance that had occurred. Without war, even if the majority of Northfall themselves were not entirely opposed to it.

The first to arrive, surprisingly so, was the Queen of Vanderfell along with a pale companion and wolf from their allied pack, the scent of Shiroshika familiar to him if only due to the pawful of beautiful women he had met from that pack. “Ira,” he offered in return along with a dip of his muzzle there with it and then, to Quicksilver, a silent and respectful dip of his muzzle the same to him. Having no connection with Northfall (or Dragonford for all he knew?) Ragnar had not quite expected their presence. Still, they were of the north and so, were quite welcomed to sit and enjoy listening to the squabbles of others.

The High Priestess, Valeska, made her appearance then and to her words he could only offer a small smile and nod. It left a bitter taste in his mouth, to know that the justice of Ynness was being placed into the paws of others. Something which should have been his right. Something that should have been Sindri's and @Einar, Aslaug and Eletari- all the wolves of Northfall. Ragnar takes a heavy breath.

And there behind her followed three others- one woman was of different eye color and a patchy coat. Then another either a short tail, one which he remembered well from the wedding. He knew her not, but she captured his attention in the same manner she had before. Her coat was blues that mimicked the northern seas- pale glacier blue on top and deep, dark waters underneath. His icy eyes trail the length of her as she moved, only to turn away once focusing on the sight of the third, a boy. He was a tall, willowy wolf like the figure of Amaranth. He carried Valeska's silver coat with hints of gold... Ragnar's stomach sank and he felt a tightness in his chest. This boy was his son. Ragnar remembered well the sacrfice he had made- to those who would become his new allies for the children they longed for. The sacfrice to the Gods as they danced in moonlight, as they praised the heavens above. Ragnar swiftly cast his gaze away.

The next pack to arrive was Duskguard, lead by Olive, of course. Tiberius was not here, likely tending to the children they had brought into this world and the rest of the pack. Ragnar entrusted Sindri for this. Olive brought a number with her as well. A child he thought perhaps to be hers but patterned in a way that looked nothing like the parents. Maybe not hers after all. Her eyes became wide then, her terror of all those she did not know becoming obvious. Ragnar could not imagine why one might think bringing a child so young to this would be a good idea, especially when the wellbeings of others here would be questionable at best. Another he didnt know kept back. Then Archon and Kuhn, the first which he did not know by name and the other, formerly a resident of Northfall. Now his time was done with them, it seemed. Ragnar didn't think much on it. He and Valmua's time was expected to be only temporary.

Then, there came the sounds of others. Quite a few others, mind you. Ragnar could see them in the distance, keeping to the forestry around and away from the open lands near the lake. A number of wolves, more children, a tiger, a fox... Had she brought all of the Ford to her beckoning? To Ragnar, having done such a thing only proved how unpredictable and untrusting Vendrussel was. After all, it was Olive and Valeska, having met this woman before, who had begged Ragnar to have this council, to limit the casualties which would be involved in a war. Yet here she was, bringing them all with her to what was supposed to be an unbiased trial, made for her so that she and her pack did not all have to die for her stupid mistakes. Ragnar's lips turn in a small smile though his eyes narrow hard as the woman approaches. His eyes shift then away, to Freya, silent burning in his eyes. Maybe we will burn them together, her voice rings in his golden ears.

“Looks like she brought whole Ford with her.” Ragnar's words murmur past his lips as he tilts his muzzle upward at an angle, to the large black raven which perched upon his shoulder. The Isles were alone.

Another then came, a creature he had not seen in much time. Not since the walrus fight and in those moments the polar had not been fairing well. Ragnar was glad he had since survived and silently dipped his golden snout to the northern bear as he made way and introduced himself. His ear twitches then, the voice of Olive chimes up and Ragnar is beckoned to hear her words as he had done so time and time before. His ears sweep back, muzzle falling to his chest a moment in silence. Then it lifts high and remains there as he steps forth, ready to begin...

“My family and I had our Awakening within the shadow of Fate's Summit. It was Ira which greeted us all into this new world.” His pale gaze swept over the woman, colored like harden stone and cut with sharp features just the same. “We set off to find the coast and it was early that summer, two seasons ago back, that we founded the lands of [q]Norður haust — Northfall. As most packs, we started small, just our family, but we were well.” A little back story yo. Let's build the tension.

“Two moons later, I met a woman at the waters affront the Leviathan Sepulcher and she came with a message. That soon a friend of hers planned to claim the islands as her home. It was the woman's thought that the new leader of the land would stick to her claim and intend to be left alone be within it. ” But for any that had ever been to the Isles, as those who lived within them or even those who captured themselves a good look, would be right to think the islands themselves had little to offer when it came to rodent prey or large herding game. Knowing of a poor choice of home by taking a Leviathan's grave as a claim, it was bound to be tension from the start. “It was mentioned in this meeting too, that the Moors were a favored place and shared as a hunting ground of Northfall and Frostchant, where the two as allies could hunt together.” A pause. “As I am aware, none of my own have acted so much as agressively to all those which to use the lands to cross between the north and south, even those of the Ford, who's scents have mingled within the Moors many a time.”

“Our pack, our pups had been accused for their tresspass to what was said a number of occasions. But not a tresspass of their islands, but of Behemoth's Brim, which they decided to take as their own as hunting grounds. Something to them, is worth the blood of a child, despite how so many others travel through these lands too.” And there it was. Why was it that so many others, smelling not of the islanders, were allowed to live when a child was fit to murder? “Ynness did not tresspass unto their isles. She couldnt have, given her disability.” After all, it was hard enough managing the sands, much less wet sand or thr positibly of having to swim. Three legs and one foot missing digits, navigating had been quite so difficult for the youth in any hard terrian.

“By the time their messenger returned to us with awareness and warning of their additional claim, it was far too late. At just barely into her first year, our daughter was taken from this world.”

“When our daughter was dragged from the Brim and up into the heights of our mountains,” Quite a distance for a body to drag and the image of what was once his daughter's body brought bile up into his throat. “Our war began.” Not only had Vendrussel killed their daughter, she had defiled her corpse and tresspassed onto their lands to toss the girl at their feet, just to really kick them where it hurt. Ragnar remembered seeking the aid of his ally then, to band together and run out the newest neighbors. Alas, Frostchant had shut their doors to them. So much for allies sticking together when the going got tough.

“Tresspass or not, Ynness was still a child. A child that was missing one leg and missing toes from another. I doubt someone which claims to be a seasoned warrior, would be unable to subdue her. Vendrussel could have left back to the isle, could have come to us to recover her, could have just howled.” Hell, knocked the little shit upside her head and left her there. ANYTHING, honestly. “No one forced Vendrussel to kill her nor is their any pathetic excuse I would accept. My only belief is that Ynness was killed because she saw Northfall as a threat to her reign- over both the islands and the Brim, yet paints us with a picture of greed.”

Now, for the first time since her arrival, Ragnar cast his gaze upon Vendrussel's face. An expression hardened, as though she were no more then the dirt on his paw. Filth. “You have spoken of peace.” A small smile creeps up then, the thought alone makes him hold back a laugh and he shakes his head now to the thought of it. “Yet you have done nothing for us to show any want for peace. No words of apologies, no offerings at our doorstep, no sacrifices made in honor of Ynness or atone with her family which remain. Instead, you speak to those you know as Northfall's allies, in hopes that they can sway us from the vengeance that is rightfully ours to have. You have even gone so far as to protect them, to save them. But I do not see this as acts of an honest woman, but ways to secure your own livelihood. Acts of a manipulative woman who uses others to hide from the punishment she so deserves.” And time soon would tell, if she was as good with playing her cards right as she so thought. Would any other see such an obvious tactic?

Now, he directions his vision upon the council. “Whatever little inconveniences Northfall has caused Dragonford is nothing compared to our loss. Whilst much of the nuisances to Dragonford have been only after Vendrussel had murdered our own.” Northfall was much a group that loved to fight, along with some other useful 'F' words in there. They had been agressive in their retaliation. They had walked and shit and pissed all over the Brim to drive Dragonford out. They had hunted down their members whenever they could, however much the isle members had been avading them. Maybe they had been hiding from them, for fear of death? Maybe they were trying to play nice, to look like they were the victim in the eyes of others? Whatever the manner, Dragonford Leader killed a wolf of Northfall and Northfall would hound them down until they had it in their head, 'Don't Fuck With Northfall'.

“Caches can be refilled. Tresspassers can be chased out and borders re-pissed on. Wounds can mend. But you...” He looks back to Vendrussel up and down with a silent scoff. “Cannot bring my daughter back from the dead.” She was no God and as far as he was aware, never was. Even Ghidorah, Chantico and Freya, whilst in their mortal forms, could not bring his daughter back. “Northfall is only left with justice to be sought, to right the inbalance that which Vendrussel has caused.” He tips his head up, a scarred brow lifted. “As I have been made aware, one of my own recently returned to us, Ghidorah, saw an opportunity to end this war swiftly and took it.... and he would have been successful in doing so had he taken her head.” Whoops. Ragnar did not know if he would be scolded by his allies for such a thing, but did not care. He had tipped-toed enough for them to make them happy- walrus fights and baby making aside, surely something good was coming his way? After all, Olive and Valeska had expressed wanting to do this to save the lives of innocents. Vendrussel, obviously, was not one of them. Killing her could have put an end to this. “Of course, we want her dead. A life, for a life.” He wouldn't lie about that. He didn't lie.

A deep breath and now it shown how this weighed heavily so upon him. “But my allies have requested an attempt at a more diplomatic approach. To find another punishment befitting to the crime. I am here to see it through.” Though by now, it was obvious (as it surely had already been to Olive and Valeska, who had approached Ragnar about this to begin with) Ragnar had doubts that Vendrussel would be willing to take the punishment without a fight. If it was more then any slap on the wrist or scolding, she would rather have war then to submit. Ragnar and those of Northfall would be happy to oblige.
the staff team luvs u

Vendrussel stood within her spot ; an ocean gaze standing forth without a glancing around the others. A tall head as she listened within a silence, patiently waiting her way through the times and the court that came. She knew her ancestors would mock such an act ; they preferred settling within the terms of war or otherwise simplicity of fighting, and would praise her for what she had done, what she thought, was the right movement at the time. There was instances she disagreed with her Clan, and slow change continued to come especially when they lost a war to the Order.. But the roots of barbarism never seemed to escape their grasp — and it was how she was raised to. Pride of looks, to the death of a fight.. But the stares of past pack-mates and current ones, friends of the tundra was something that scarred her heart, and the change that what she had done was wrong: a haste decision that has continued onwards.

She listened without interruption, patiently waiting for her time and digesting what he said — where lies were given and not the full truth as well. She knew her blame but in the end, the Northfall wolves would never see that it was their actions that rolled forth this rivalry — only Vendrussel, put a nail on where the true fighting begun. She scorned them, even before it all ; their blatant disrespect of land and arrogance that they owned all around. She wasn't aware how many allies they had, and only vaguely knew Elsyium was affiliated due to the.. Scent of sex, that she remembered during that day.

Kind wolves roamed these lands, where she questioned whether it would be wise to set elsewhere. Yet the wolves of Dragonford, with each step Vendrussel spoke with them and made sure they had a voice: and the voice settled to fight for their home. As now it was her turn to speak, she finally looked over to the tense group of the dragons, some looked as if they wished to cry, and anxiety upon the face, and others a silent rage. None moved, none spoke, only listened, and watched.

She took a deep breath, looking at Ragnar, "I am sorry to what I have done to your daughter," she did not move from his own frosted gaze if he looked upon her, "words will not make up a life — but she is the only life I apologize for." A stamping, to what Vendrussel means. There was a grave Vendrussel made. Standing right onto the beach, where on occasion flowers would be drop as she prayed to The Ancients, and continued to question what choices were made. Yet silence was given, except for a singular dream.. That she still could not understand. Her gaze turned back ahead, the judge of it all was Olive ; and the northern wolf admired her to preform all this and bring packs that not even she knew about. Although most of the court was familiar, only the roan woman was not.

"I came to this land on the graduation on month of my second year. Travelling from the deserts until The Ancients who guide my Clan set me off to find what is called Leviathan's Sepulcher. When we came there, there was no one nearby. Northfall had not been claimed, we were unaware anyone was even nearby without a scent — even months after we officially claimed and held strong onto the isle, they still lacked so." It was strange to think how only a few months separated her and Ynness. She did not know the exact age of the yearling, obviously so — but she knew her own age. She had come to this primordial land around the time she graduated as a yearling.

"Where I come from are warriors, but never once, have I said I was a an experienced veteran, I am learning, and still learning. By the wills of The Ancients did I claim so — and we did not venture further. Yet thrice did their wolves continue to set upon our land, despite us never visiting, and respecting the borders we did not see or smell. The lands of the brim was a hunting grounds, and decided to claim so to prevent their continual arrival to our isle and sands. Many of you have stepped there and yet aggression was limited, only when assumed to have been a Northfall wolf. To their children that they let loose, to the parents that continued coming — words that said it was their land, to the mountains, to the sepulcher, to the brim." He was a failure of a leader. Each step of the way he failed to communicate to his pack and let them rampage, even his young. She could only imagine if it was someone else, how many of his young would be slain but the continual letting of their wildness to be let loose? Where not even informing them of what happened, who was near — and at the very least, the relations that was tense with said-pack. Her tail flickered lightly before standing still behind, "there are both false truths said and assumptions to be made, such as the knowledge of alliances ; and instead were coincidences met upon the land of vagueness. I knew of association, but not being an ally."

Information he knew, that she didn't. Information that she knew, but he didn't. Neither could be said was a lie, but rather a truth mistaken upon another misconception, such as her acquirement of an experienced warrior that was never said, or the knowledge of how many allies he had. She wasn't sure why any would be friendly with her if they truly, especially Tiberius — who Vendrussel thought to be a friend, but lightly wondered, what were his thoughts on it all? He was not here today, and instead Olive represented.

"He claims that she did not swim — despite how much his daughter was physically limited, she did come to the isle. How, I could not say, but one way or another she found herself to the island and said it was Northfalls. Yet she left in confusion, when a past companion explained that she had spoken to Ragnar and settled the issues." Her gaze turned toward him ; she wasn't sure why he underestimated Ynness so. Nor' why he said she didn't swim, the impossible he claimed did happen. Vendrussel gave her a fight of an equal ground. A firm gaze set forth, away from him again.

"Once more did the yearling come, but on Behemoth's Brim this time, where I had demanded her to leave. Rather then so, without so much as a word, she attacked — where countless times I warned her through the fight to leave or otherwise let go, but torn to my shoulder to near my neck, until the end." The dragoness wondered.. Even in the death, she was the only one who saw her as an equal. To the parents that view her as a disabled weakling, to the others who look at her as a pitiful wolf.. She fought, and killed as if they were a warrior from the land Vendrussel came from. However, that was also her mistake, to believe that ideals she once held, would be the same in this unknown land. Lately she questioned herself, but a slow resolve was coming forth. She trusted the process.

"Since then countless fights have been brought, where they claim for my head and continued to attack the Ford wolves. Where each step have we spoke of what to do, and that is why they are here today," she looked at them, and smiled, before turning again, "we stand together as a group, and decided to stay, and join together. Decisions made are not alone. He fails to mention that the man who attacked me, had also attacked a stranger. Where they could've wait until I departed from that wolf, but instead launched an attack where Lwa — a once stranger, was dragged into it." A debt was to be lain for her now. Vendrussel vowed if she called, she would help the other. It was the least she could do for dragging her into the mess, that the bloodthirst of the others could not be quenched. With the continued standing tall, without an exhaustion of sigh to follow, she presented herself in a regaility and proudness, without a beat to skip. His story was shared, her story was shared, and she would continue speaking.

"A life for a life — and yet a life was lost helping their own. With the boars attacked, Dragonford helped rescue a few who stand here today and elsewhere, even to the Northfall wolves where one died during the rescue to save both Elsyium and Northfall. Belial was his name. We did not know their packmates were there, but it didn't change what occured, and the mission to save everyone. Even Northfall came to the rescue.. Where another of their young was brought into the fight."

She did not know Leviathan was unrelated to their house, but she knew it was questionable on why he was there; and why Northfall kept letting their children run lose. To the youngs who stormed the beach and isles, to the one who stormed to the fighting of the boars. It would be a surprise if not more was to be perish under his reign, but she remembered.. She had met quite a few of his kids, several — a man who breeds like a horse was treating them like they were expendable, but angered if his actions cause one's death.

She remembered the boy too, who found the Frostfang Vale as well. To roam far and wide from the tundra.. To where his packmates and kin continued to run free..

"I regret," she started, "I regret the haste decision that had happened, a decision that costed a life of a young warrior. I was, and still am young, and never once a leader. But that does not excuse to what I have done. Time and time again to question whether to disband Dragonford. Despite all that, to those who left my pack, to those who looked at me in scorn, there was still those who vowed to stand beside me, as a friend, as an Alpha. Yet, it has shown by actions that if fate was different that day.. We all still would appear here, on another day, on another moment."

Vendrussel was confident that if Ynness never perished — the tides of Dragonford and Northfall would still have brought war. They would find themselves at this court again, for mountain wolves their greed seemed to be not be quenched. To where they continued to claim the lands around them, to where they continually attacked and blame nothing but themselves. They would still have a court for another reason, another day, the fate of today would have been unchanged, but she only imagined, that instead of her standing up here.. It could've been someone else, or even them who was the accused.

the staff team luvs u

The characters allowed to post in round 3 are (in no order):
@Ira @Quicksilver @Valeska @Kuhn @Freya @Thraximundar;
after all court members post, then @Ragnar can respond to all questions. We can do as many rounds of questions/response as needed, in order to gain the necessary clarity! After Ragnar's questioning, we will do the same for Vendrussel.

---

Olive was easily lost in their stories, rapt in a most grotesque manner. The experiences of both Ragnar and Vendrussel struck a raw chord with her, as both a mother and leader. After listening to the long-winded testimonies of the golden viking and the coastal dragoness, Olive was left with the same haunting sensation that she had after Valeska's own wedding, when they had gathered as a conclave to discuss this very matter: that they were at an impasse that would eventually devolve into a bloodbath, should reason and justice and a small sense of humility not be attained here, on this day.

but as the two faction spoke their words, Olive found her attentions drifting around the circle of the court, within the larger circle of the audience. Only problems that could not be solved became war. The best minds of the North had come together for this common cause, and thus Olive felt that some version of success was assured here, though she simply could not fathom what that success might be. It was at these moments that the Priestess was grateful that she had ceded her place on the council to Kuhn. The weight of such a sentencing was not a brunt she truly wished to bear,

Not when it came to Ragnar.
Not when it came to Vendrussel.

Eventually, the flurry of context settled once more, and it was clear that their soliloquies had come to a close. Olive waited a beat before striding forward once more, allowing some room for everyone's internal monologues and pondering to come to their own conclusions. So much had been said, that it almost took a a visual timeline to keep track of all the individual offenses. With a dip of her head, did she eventually draw forth. "Thank you, Ragnar and Vendrussel," she said with her nose pointed low. Then, she lifted her gaze with renewed conviction.

"Court and Jury, we have heard well the testimonies of both sides of this tragic story. A life can never be replaced, and any justice we find today is but a poor replacement for a child."

Olive grimaced, thinking again of Archon and Dalmatia just behind her. For a moment, she thought of what might come next in this process; what could possibly carry this forward, or follow up such mutual sorrow? Silence fell. Then, looking upon the faces of the court members, she intuitively knew. "I give unto you the floor; so that you might question the two sides of truth provided here today, and investigate any lingering uncertainties. For now, please direct all attention & inquiry to @Ragnar — Vendrussel will soon have her moment." This was not the time for emotive expression, but for direct and honorable inquiry. They were all aware of what hung in the balance — she only hoped that they would weald their voices wisely.

Again, she stepped back.

the staff team luvs u

Valeska sat in utter silence. Her expression was one of quiet concern, brow furrowed and jaw clenched tight without realizing - but this was a serious matter, and a life - multiple lives - hung in the balance. Turning her head once to listen to Ragnar's exposition, then shifting once more to hear Vendrussel's defense, each made a strong case to their own sides, and although she had foolishly hoped otherwise, the details were... conflicting.

Ynness could not swim - yet she had, at Vendrussel's claim, indeed breached the borders of Leviathan's Sepulcher, which to her knowledge could only be reached through fording the cold ocean waves or traversing precarious rock formations scattered throughout. However she had managed it - the way was difficult.

She listened ever more intently. The initial problem was that Dragonford had extended their reach further than the islands they had originally claimed, stretching their land to the shores of Behemoth's Brim as a secondary hunting ground, where Northfall apparently believed it to be rightfully within their own control. To Valeska, who felt content with her own singular swath of land, the action would normally seem unnecessary and perhaps a touch greedy, but she also recognized that the islands which served as the dragon clan's home likely did not offer enough food for an entire pack long-term. Relying upon the generosity of the tides alone to provide sufficient fish for their numbers did not seem realistic; yet she wondered why then they had chosen that home to begin with.

There were many layers to this conundrum - wounded pride, misplaced expectations and a lack of communication had stirred together a cocktail of ill feelings that had ultimately ended in the loss of a disadvantaged child's life.

It sounded horrible without context.

It sounded even worse with it.

Taking a breath to bolster her nerves, Valeska straightened up.

“I wish to ask - it is necessary to make a true assessment of the events that transpired - but what was the character of Ynness?” she started, her low voice clear and thickly-accented, ringing out alarmingly through the assembly as she faced Ragnar. She was used to hosting and speaking through weddings and events of all varieties, but never under such serious circumstances - nor with so many glowering eyes. “Was she frequently aggressive - hostile? Hot-headed in her decisions?”

Swallowing quietly, she ventured to continue further.

“Vendrussel says Ynness struck first -”

This was the most important point to make clear.

Although a yearling was still considered an adolescent, a wolf of one year should still know better than to trespass willingly upon another's claim without companion or cause to start a fight - if that was truly what had happened.

Yet even still - Vendrussel could have howled. She could have summoned Northfall to collect their errant child.

“Why was she so certain that Dragonford were encroaching - had this been communicated by both packs, or was this merely an assumption?”

Valeska shifted hesitantly, not wishing to rouse unnecessary ire from either side, but feeling it a worthy avenue to pursue.

“Finally - why did either of you wish for or require this extra territory? If your chosen lands were not enough to sate the needs of your packs, why not settle elsewhere rather than wage a war mired in such a bitter tug-of-war?” she finished, her expression turning sorrowful. “Could you truly not have shared and become friends and allies?”

the staff team luvs u

The tale was an awful one, as Quicksilver expected, and his frown was solemn as it deepened. He listened to Ragnar share the weight of his daughter's death with words, to the anger in his voice as he rounded it on Vendrussel; his wish was for her to die. The silverwhite drew in a breath at this announcement and tried to place himself in the Northfall leader's place. Death of another would not return his daughter to his embrace, and the druid swallowed as he swept his ears back. Would he wish for the life of a wolf who claimed that of his child? Quicksilver had never wished suffering on anyone in his life, but things had changed for him with the arrival of his cubs. Thankfully no one had sought to bring harm to his brood and his intention was to maintain peace for their sake, yet he found himself stealing a fleeting glance toward Kuhn as he considered it.

Would he ever seek revenge on Shiroshika for their rise against him? To dispose of the Alphas' cubs would be the greatest assault imaginable, and he wondered if the cat had ever conjured such dark thoughts. Quicksilver squeezed his eyes shut briefly and tried to ground himself again, returning focus as Ragnar's plea came to an end. It was the accused's turn, then, to speak, and the druid's silver-blue eyes swept over Vendrussel as she began.

The deceased had been a girl, an invalid girl but by no means a fragile one. Quicksilver imagined her to be sharp and strong despite her missing limb, and @Gyrfalcon came to mind. His own comrade had been robbed of a leg yet she thrived without it, was perhaps more capable than many. She was a loyal and valuable part of Shiroshika. The Emperor truly believed that Yness could have made her way onto Dragonford's claim if she set her mind to it. Punishment would've been appropriate in such instances, but death? Never. Quicksilver maintained his silence as the coastal Alphess carried on, expressing her regret and her apology for what had happened to Ragnar's fallen daughter. He stared at her, his lips pursed, and the good in him wished to believe that there was truth in her claim: that Yness' death had not been intentional.

Why did Northfall let their young, bolstered by arrogant curiosity, continue to test the patience of their neighbours? He remembered when Valeska had settled her group in the shadow of Vanderfell's summit, back to a time when he'd been concerned about the proximity of another pack, and he'd held his own worries of conflict. Thankfully, Elysium had respected Ira's control of the run and both groups continued to live quietly alongside one another. He could not recall a single instance when the Alphas' children had encroached Elysium territory, could not think of any occasion when Valeska's wolves might've complained of Vanderfell teenagers. He looked toward Ira, whose sons and daughters had been disciplined appropriately; even Rea, who was known to overstep boundaries had not once stuck her nose into Elysium's business.

Olive opened the floor for the council to ask for further information, and it was Elysium's priestess who first parted her jaws to speak. She asked of Yness' character, wondered out loud if she was the type of yearling Quicksilver had already imagined her to be: fiery, sharp-tongued and made bold by youth. He was curious to hear what Ragnar had to say about that and wondered if he might refuse to see the flaws of his children.

There was wrongdoing on both sides, he felt, and he could not help wondering if Northfall was ignorant to its own mistakes. Had the adults discussed their offence at Dragondford's claim of the sepulcher in the presence of their young? Had they allowed Yness free reign because of her disability, thinking that it would prevent her from getting into trouble? Quicksilver wondered many things but did not know how to speak his enquiries without rousing hostility, so he held time for a time longer as Valeska continued.

The druid lifted his muzzle, his pale eyes flitting between each of the Western leaders who'd been brought to trial, and exhaled softly as they came to settle on the gilded Ragnar. He had no questions for him, for the priestess had summed it up well enough: why had they let greed come to this?


the staff team luvs u

 The grizzled man listened as both leaders weaved their words, their truths and hopefully no lies. In matters such as this, Thraximundar often found that the truth usually laid somewhere in between both sides. So, where was the truth here? How were they to parse a suitable punishment? From what he heard there was fault at both sides.

 There was Northfall, a pack that had come after Dragonford, that had apparently saw fit to trespass until a punishment was exacted... a punishment that, in his mind, seemed quite steep. Especially since it seemed that certain things had not been communicated. He frowned, head tilted downwards as he thought over this whole thing. A child was still a child but one of a year that managed to reach Vendrussel's home despite her disability. It was food for thought as any child should know what not to do. Though, a life could never be replaced and it seemed wasted in such a fashion. May the Great Spirits rest her soul.

 The silvery she-wolf, Valeska, stepped forward to ask questions after Olive made it known that they were to ask for clarifiers from Ragnar. He looked over to her, listening and finding himself nodding along to what she was saying. "Insightful inquiries, lass." Yes, those questions were a good place to start but he also added in, "Had the territories lines of Dragonford and Northfall been communicated clearly between your two packs? Words spoken rather than assumptions made. It appears that there is some ambiguity on who's range is who's." They were in close proximity, it seemed that the best course of action would have been to work something out or communicate if you were to be neighbors. However, if Northfall was uncertain of the other's hunting ground and Dragonford assumed offense when no one had said a single thing to the other pack or there members. Therein could lie their whole host of issues since it seemed as if the scents were not as they should be. To him, the concept of owning so much land was almost foreign... it all belonged to everyone in polar bear culture, but he was learning that wolves carved out their plots of land with scent but there might be something more going on here.

the staff team luvs u

The roan queen sat in silence as Olive laid down the grounds to speak. Each would be given a chance to tell their tale; the victim and then the accused. Ragnar needn't be told twice, as he started from the very beginning. She, too, recalled his start in these strange lands. He and his had awoken just as he told in the early days of Vanderfell's settling. She easily recalled the children, young and curious, at his side. Despite their age, Ira was sure she could pinpoint which in this picture would have an untimely fate. Ynness, as Olive had spoken before, was not a name she had stored away, but she had not forgotten the spitfire that stood at her father's side as they exchanged history. She fit the description Ragnar gave, but despite such disablement, she had not succumbed to life's hardships. The child was a warrior.

The story continued as both spoke their truth. Dragonford was an unknown group and Northfall, as far as she was concerned, was of no business to her or Vanderefell Woods. Unlike others who sat here, there was a large amount of new information fed to her on a shining platter. Some details aligned, even if personal views of the events differed, but others...created holes. Perhaps her unfamiliarity with these groups put her at a disadvantage when assessing their character. Ragnar specifically had not left a pleasant taste in her mouth...which was unfortunate given their first meeting, but the other was presently a threat. Vendrussel had been painted as a woman of twisted words and a woman who willingly chose the death of a child. Rather or not she agreed with Ragnar's past approaches in her personal interactions, there was no denying his daughter did not stand here today.

Ira pondered on the information set before her as both testimonies came to a close. It was now their turn to speak and establish clarity between the two renditions so that justice may favor a suitable punishment for the accused. There was at least one thing clear thus far, Vendrussel was guilty. She had said so herself and for that there would be action, but the severity mattered on the specifics. She did not flinch at Ragnar's proposal of blood. It was common where she was raised as well, and truthfully she would seek such vengeance herself had it been one of her own tossed at her feet. Intentions or not, it was stupid to believe tossing the body of a child at the paws of a power figure would incite anything but war.

Valeska spoke first, requesting more on Ynness' character. Despite her brief meeting, Ira did not comment on the girl. She did not truly know her, only that she held her head high as any proud Norse did. She did not agree either with Valeska's suggestion of moving. The woman was passive as ever, and Northfall had settled first. Even if they failed to strengthen their borders, if the roles had been reversed, she would have seen to it that the other was the one to move as well. Not all were so willing to give up their home over a common dispute. The bear was next to speak, something still jarring despite her own encounter with a grizzly once before. He on the other hand, mirrored a question of her own. Over all, however, most kept their questions limited. Again, she could only wonder how much these groups had interacted before today, but her quiet life in the mountains would be made obvious today had they the info she searched for.

Once enough silence lingered for another to speak, she would raise her voice, “Additionally, when had Dragonford's presence become known in your hunting grounds? Was it before or after your daughter's death.” If Dragonford crossed hunting grounds that had been made aware of after killing a girl for doing the same, there was a large lapse in character to be addressed. Vendrussel would be a hypocrite and disrespectful to those she had already punished. Something Ira would have no issue calling for her head had it been her own claim she lingered after creating a void in her family. “Both stress a messenger in these tales. I assume they are the same individual in each...Can you identify this messenger of the Isles as someone here today? It sounds as though they might have a middle perspective to potentially aid your claim or shine light to any holes.” Another insight, perhaps more neutral, would benefit this trial, though it sounds as if they stand loyal solely to the Ford. Chances were they would side with Vendrussel...but it was nevertheless another insight.

“Additionally, you made no comment on this situation between packs involving boars. What is Northfall's perspective of the event?” Honestly, she was not sure if it had much merit here today. If Dragonford had wolves claimed in this...attack, then it was easy enough to say their interest did not lay in repaying the debt to Northfall. The same could be said to Northfall had they gone to retrieve their own, but this was a story fresh to her ears and one she knew little about from Vendrussel's rendition of the events. “Overall, you seek a punishment you laid down to rest in favor of a more...friendly outcome. Have you any thoughts as to what might satisfy Northfall's pain?” Perhaps it would aid a favorable decision if they knew what it was Ragnar desired in place of something that could never truly be replaced or mended.

the staff team luvs u

The difference in the speeches from the two where stark. As usual Ragnar was straightforward, he wanted her dead. There was no lying and no games. The queen spoke of apologies. Known to nobody but Vendrussl and Ragnar, he had already heard this tale. It was another instance of wolves laying down their lives over borders of piss. The whole ordeal was both pathetic and tragic.

Raising himself from the stone that he sat upon, the cat hopped down to floor level to have his say, it wasn't lost on him that Ragnar, had just said that he had tried to assassinate Vendrussl. Nodding to Valeska, he found her words mostly concise. He wouldn't doubt her wisdom, but the what if questions she posed where a waste of breath.

Waiting for the great bear to finish and then Ira, the cat paced back and fourth, a bit unnerved at the amount of eyes present.  Thrax was right to ask his question, it might be important to know, if the two leaders where clear on who owned what.  Though he hated to admit it some of Ira's questions seemed to seek a more wise and nuanced middle path.  When the roan queen finished,  pacing came to a stop, "First of all... I would like to say that I am disappointed that we all have to be here and that it had to come to this.", he snapped with an annoyed growl.

"Ragnar... I don't question your honesty. Though, I wonder what was your role in the education of your young. Vendrussel claims that 'your young where let loose' did the leadership of Northfall turn a blind eye to this?"    From, the time the cat spent in Northfall, he noticed that to be a warrior was a matter of pride, likely the youth would want to fight battles of their own.  The question was, what did Ragnar do as alpha to put that energy to good use.  Really, Ragnar had a point though, even if he was guilty of bad parenting or leadership of the young it was nothing compared to the loss of a life and ultimately, she had crossed that line.  Though perhaps according to wolves, her death wasn't so odd for her invasion and fight, maybe the southern queen was within her right to slay her, and Ragnar was within his own right to call for the head of the sea.  Thus, the cycle continued.  

"Let us not forget why we are here. We want to see justice done.", he said somewhat softly, before resuming his pacing.    Continuing with his train of thought, "I want the two of you to remember..."  Ripping  outward, the cat pivoted around projecting himself to the crowd with a half roar "What happens here today can plant the seed of of hate!"    His gaze fell upon, the eastern packs only for a moment: Ira, Quicksilver.    Then his eyes glided across the young, the warriors of various sides, his own pack and then back to the two. 

"In the service of justice, we may be butchers, and the gods may even smile upon it!  But... Ask yourselves if you would like to see the bodies of your young stacked and bloodied for a hundred years!" 

"If so, bring them forward!"

The tiger's passion was evident, his chest rising and falling.  Would the serpent continue to devour its own tail? Was that the way of life?  Or would they choose to remove its head.  
 

rebellion against life itself

the staff team luvs u

^^

  Freya was at ease as she stood at her Kings side, recalling the days she had stood around a golden table with formal chairs with high backs, chalices filled with red wine. Those days had been different, the topics different yet somehow the same. Of politics, life and death, of what Kingdoms and Gods owed to each other. It was all the same, in the end, wasn't it? This time it was a matter of family, of justice, of future. The born-again Goddess would watch quietly with curious eyes as each and every one of them arrived, wolves, felines and bears -- Vendrussel at the helm of one of the convoys. To herself she hummed lightly in thought; an interesting move to bring with one their Pack. Close-knit, it seemed, a strange collective of creatures as she added a fox to the mix of species that stood with them today.

She was unsure of what to think of it as she glanced to Ragnar who remained with her, soon to be called to the stand. Despite choosing to believe that those who gathered here today could be considered mature beings, she knew that if it came down to it, she would coat the stone crimson with blood at Ragnar's side until she was cut down. Freya was a smart woman, experienced in strategy in more ways than one and she was rather good at leading someone to the unexpected -- she trusted that Ragnar would trust her no matter the way she would weave her web. She dipped her chin to him, offering him a secret little smile that was for him and him alone.

Ragnar took to the stands and his voice carried, divulging to the crowd his side of the events. Freya had heard them, of course she had -- Ragnar and Freya's pillowtalk was a colourful collective. Though truthfully, Northfall as a whole knew of what happened with Ynness. She could admit that her mind wandered just a tad, seeing the blond King stand tall and cast his voice across the crowd made her delve into her memories of past meetings with Ragnar and she recalled the day he desired her to carry the name he bore with such pride. Oh yes, she had chosen well. Freya was drawn back to reality when Ragnar spoke to Vendrussel, her own gaze flickering over to the woman in blue.

Inwardly she almost cringed as Ragnar outed the way Ghidorah had displayed reckless behaviour, one that could have gone badly for them had they not managed to leave. She had heard of it, of course, the day they found Vendrussel on the sands. Serenity and Ghidorah had thought to play Gods as they drove down upon the Dragonford Queen, not realising that they would be outnumbered -- not just by body count but species, too. Tigers were ferocious beasts and despite Ghidorah being a giant, the sting of a felines claws and teeth were not ones to take so willy nilly. Their actions could have come back to Northfall in a way so badly, though she could see the why in their actions. They sought justice for their King, for Ynness. It was only right that they would feel as such yet they could have died when Northfall needed bodies the most.

Ragnar desired Vendrussel dead, though Freya thought this was a quick punishment. To die was quick, whatever after life she might live Freya was not in the right body nor life to see and truly, did he desire her punishment to be had within moments? Freya could see ways to torment Vendrussel for a life time should she get to keep her head; ways to hurt her as she cast her multicoloured gaze across those she called her members. Freya was a spiteful mare when she desired to be and she would recount the ways she had punished some with torture when their crimes had fit the punishment. It was a shame that most thought punishment was simply beatings. They could be so much more.

It was an element that she hadn't been aware of when Vendrussel's voice had replaced Ragnar's, recalling the way she too had been only a girl when it had all transpired. Freya tilted her head in thoughts; had it been a squabble between teen girls that had gone too far? She listened, tilting her tail behind her as to offer Ragnar's own a ghosting touch, a reminder that she was here, still at his side. Vendrussel claimed that Ynness had swam despite her disability, going into detail of the ordeal though she couldn't say how the other girl had managed it, just that she had. In truth, she supposed she wasn't surprised. The girl was a daughter of Ragnar, it was unlikely she would have let a disability get the better of her.

She was unsure how that would fair in Northfall's favour, given that part of it had been heavy on the fact Ynness had been at a disadvantage due to her missing limb -- but now there were claims of her swimming. Had they different forms and little daggers who could deal with the problem before her secretly, it would have been different. Alas, they were canines and felines and all the inbetweens. It was different here and Freya adapted to the way she needed to be as she stood, listening the same as everyone else. Freya recalled the boars and the kidnapping and had been one to have looked upon it without an ounce of care; Serenity had been a fool and she had paid the fools price.

Whoever had died was of no consequence to Freya and she didn't think upon their death for any moments longer as Olive took charge once more. 

Ragnar was the target of the incoming questions and she glanced to those around her, knowing that she too would need to voice questions to Ragnar. The little silver-touched woman of Elysium spoke first and Freya knew the accent from another life lived, Russian and heavy despite the way she spun her words of English. She had done well to hold it, most certainly. Still, she didn't favour the questions the woman asked but knew that they were fair questions; asking after Ynness. She highlighted something that had been missing between the two packs: communication. The fatal flaw that even the bravest of men fell to and it seemed that even wolves fell to it too.

The bear only furthered it, asking if it had been clear between the two packs where one's territories ended and the others began. Had they not used words, he asked but fancily. Ira spoke next, questions on her tongue as she pondered the time of Dragonford's own encroach. Freya kept her features schooled with practised ease, thinking that this question could go in favour of Northfall or against -- for in a way, could Northfall complain about encroaching when according to Vendrussel, they had done the same before? But in the same breath, Ira had a point -- had Dragonford wolves done actions of hypocrisy without a second thought? Her tongue lashed at the roof of her mouth as she glanced to Ragnar, hoping that he might be able to spin it in Northfall's favour without any room for someone to poke holes in.

In the end, she knew she needed to be true to herself but remain loyal to the King at her side, too.

Freya was fine with that; she was able.

Kuhn spoke next, fire in his veins and his nature had not dimmed. He was a passionate beast as proven now by his dramatics, his flare, the way he shook their blood with his roar and asking them all what perhaps they hadn't thought of: would this really end with them? Would children of either Packs not take it upon themselves to act out in the future, the young of Dragonford not taking the death of their leader with any ease? Northfall children thinking that they were warriors of all kinds, that they could take Dragonford because they could? Freya would have hissed if she could; unhappy with the thoughts that Kuhn might be putting in their heads of this.

He brought the very topic back in a full circle: their children. If there was one thing that could sway the minds of adults, it was children. The worry of their well being, of their futures.

Damn him, she thought furiously.

It soon became her turn and she stepped forward only a little though not needed by much, given that she was at his side and not before him like the rest. She cast her multicoloured gaze to him as she spoke, "had there been any instances of Dragonford within your reaches before Ynness had met the Brim?" The goddess asked with a voice strong but at ease, not strangled by nerves or worries. Freya hadn't any worries; they would get what they desired, even if it may not be as black and white as Ragnar had first thought. "Would you do anything differently from then and now, Ragnar?" Freya had to be careful, she didn't wish to incriminate the man. She was here to justice, for him. She cared nothing for the child that hadn't come from her womb but this was important to him and thus, Freya would see it through.

She desired to see Northfall thrive, not fall before they had a chance to blossom to full bloom. Though a warrior, experienced and skilled, she knew the strengths of the mind and thought. Next to him was not Ghidorah or Chantico but Freya. She would adapt her way to Northfall way but she would not act as a reckless fool. Ragnar needed her strength, her calm before the storm. Where he stood tall, fury in his veins and a fight in his heart, she had his back, his six, in any way that she could. ^^

the staff team luvs u

It would have been good to know these early thoughts of Vendrussel, to know her familiar ways of simply fighting to end your feuds. When you had a problem, simply solve it with tooth and claw. But even still if this were a way which her bloodline followed, Vendrussel had not followed this. Though many a time Northfall had marched on their Brim and the few times those of Northfall were able to hunt one of the Ford down, Dragonford wolves had stayed in hiding. She thought so that she was one born into fighting and yet instead of ending this swiftly, she spoke out to the other packs in the realm, whispering the horrors of Northfall and poor little islanders.

A sharp eye turns to the younger wolf then, an apology finally given to the parent. Ragnar's expression is flat, cold, unphased. The apology had only come an entire year too late.

Vendrussel then began her story, starting back to the beginning of her settlement on thr islands, it was a contradictory to Ragnar's own side. A sudden and easy flag certain to be noticed by others gathered here. In Ragnar's tale, he had been told by a messenger, a friend of Vendrussel, that she planned to settle here. This would have been either been before or as Vendrussel was settling on the island. So saying that months after they 'officially claimed' the islands (whatever that meant!?) Vendrussel did not know of the family in the mountains next door was a flat out lie, something to which visibly so, Ragnar quirked a scarred brow to, his head tilting along there with it. Another lie? Even right here at her very trial?



When she mentions the fight with the boars, Ragnar's teeth flashed in a silent snarl, icy eyes pale and hot. She even said it herself, that they didn't know Northfall was there when they came to aid and yet somehow in the beginning twisted her words to make it sound as though they had come to be some sort of saviors to the land. And even so, to throw a death of a fallen comrade in it, as though a subtle 'here look, one of ours died for your buddies so we square now?' was to be taken seriously as equality. This tied back directly into Ragnar stating that Dragonford was continuing to reach out to Northfall's allies, in order to wedge between them- to show all of Northfall's alliances that they were the poor victims here, being bullied by that of Northfall. If they thought they were being bullied before, allow all of Northfall to truly rain upon them now and show them what true wraith feels like!

She spoke of youth. She spoke of first leadership. Of not knowing. That her decision was made in haste. A mistake. So their daughter's death should be forgiven and go without consequence because Vendrussel admits she was young and stupid? Nice one.

The first to come forth to question is the High Priestess, Valeska, whom Ragnar looks to now. A leader of an allied pack to Northfall, but still placed themselves distant enough to question Northfall's intentions for retribution instead of aiding them as an ally should. It hurt, both by they and Olive's pack and one lesson which all of Northfall would remember well.

Ragnar would not disregard or hide the flaws of himself, nor those he held dear. “She was everything you presume and more- aggressive, hot-headed, bold, proud, ruthless.” He had spoken the truth of this before to Valeska but only assumed she asked again for everyone else to know- Ynness was not at all a kind wolf. “I cannot speak for Ynness given the fact that I was not there when her murder occurred. Had I been, I assure you that none of us would be here today.” A small, playful smirk shown, despite the tension, though it were all very true. “Northfall had not and never has claimed Behemoth's Brim as a part of its territory. The idea that Vendrussel suggests so is something, I, honestly, can't wrap my head around. For Ynness to walk these lands, I'm sure it was do to the fact that they were supposed to be free lands and that my daughter, just as all of you have, were free to walk them. As Vendrussel states, she found Ynness there and asked her to leave. Ynness refused, and why should she not if the Ford had kept to their agreed word of claiming the islands, not the islands and the Brim?” Ynness had been murdered on lands that were not even claimed by Dragonford Isles, or at least, so thry had said. Northfall had never claimed Behemoth's Brim. Had never attacked anyone on the Alpine Moors. It was they which had wanted more then originally was told to Northfall and their greed which ended a life. As far as sharing and allies, well, there had been little room for such a discussion, granted Vendrussel's hasty decision which she had already admitted to the court.

Then, the great bear spoke, adding to Valeska's questioning. Ragnar had already spoken such in his story but many words had since been said and so he clarified. “Vendrussel's messenger had informed that the islands were intended to be claimed, though nothing more.” Hence, Ynness obvious confusion, something which Ragnar could not back up and yet Vendrussel of course would not mention herself.

Now, it is the roan woman who speaks and Ragnar looks to the woman's sharp features. A woman of Norse views, such as his own, even if she did not travel the coastal forges as viking. Many, even what was to be Ragnar's allies, though Northfall to be arrogant and bold but also blood hungry, ruthless. It was funny how one favored Northfall's willingness to fight and die when it meant their own advantage, but when it was for Northfall's cause? Well, it was left to wonder if Ira would think the same.

“After.” He answered, “And many times ever since.” Vendrussel's own and various others of her ranks. An obvious slap to the face, quick frankly. Though the Moors were a beautiful and plentiful lands, hence why Northfall enjoyed to hunt rabbits here or grazing elk which had left the haven of the forests. Many loners and other packs too used this as a sort of gateway between the regions. Then, he looks out to those within the treeline, watching, waiting should something go wrong, whilst Northfall lay in wait back near home. “I don't see them but her name is Kei. I have not smelt her on the Brim or the Moors recently, either.” He added, turning his attention from the Ford lot and then back to Ira. “Two of the Ford's members have since left and come to the doorstep of Northfall, after hearing what had happened, though she has not been one of them.” Where she went, he did not know.

“A group of boars began invading many packlands and stealing from caches. They even had decided to round up and kidnap our wolves. A pregnant woman of ours, Valeska herself and, a deer.” All of it sounded completely bs to hear, but that shit really did happen! “It took some time to find their hideout but when we had, Elysium, Duskguard and Northfall banded together to destroy them. Dragonford, as Vendrussel has told, decided to help in the effort as well. One of their own parished and Serenity had given birth while captured yet only one made it out alive.” A horror which none would ever forget. Vendrussel's 'life for a life' comment meant little. They had not been there for Northfall, even stating they didn't even know they were there.

Now, Ira asks the real question, one which Ragnar had difficulty answering and it shown in his features and he gave a heavy breath. What would do? What would give Ynness vengeance and what would slate Sindri's revenge? “This is hard to say...For I am but one of two parents at a loss, though she and I have spoken of such things and possibilities.”

What has happened is on Vendrussel's shoulders and shoulders alone. If she truly lamented for what she had done, as opposed to being like "oh im sorry but not really because they started it", then she should step forth and take any punishment there sought fit. But she wouldn't and as any pack should, they would fight and die to protect their leader.

“We have stated our true wants before, to our allies, when questioned of our intentions as we have to you all now. We are no fools to expect all of the Ford to step back and allow us to take their leader unwillingly. But we say that if this is truly a land of rebirth, let her make that sacrifice of herself. Save her people. Save the lives of many others by avoiding war and right this imbalance, and fear not for she may live again and if not, may she rest with her gods as Ynness does now.” A frown. Yes, Ynness was either in Freya's fields awaiting the return of the Goddess which sat before them now or she fought in the great hall of Valhalla. He hoped she had found peace but this did not mean her earthly life would not be avenged.

“But this is not to be.” Obviously so and as stated, Vendrussel had done nothing as of yet to try and right such wrongs, making the drive for punishment that much stronger. And everyone else too, seemed fitting to dismiss Northfall's true desires, so a need to try and ponder different options. “If Vendrussel's life not be taken in turn for Ynness own, then she should suffer as our family has suffered.” But Sindri both would not kill a child simply because one of theirs had been killed. There were some within their ranks which he was certain none would have a problem doing, however.

“Sindri would see it fit to have Vendrussel know what it was like to loose a child- to take one of Vendrussel's first litter, as was our first. One child which would be loved and cared for and with a promise to know of us as theirs but leave a hole in Vendrussel's chest, as our own. This is something of uncertainty however, should Vendrussel never have children or keep them hidden from outside knowledge.” Fair as fair and no child suffering such, either. The sacrifice of a first born or giving of a daughter to wed by one of an ally, was not something uncalled for or uncommon. Though Ragnar did not want to leave their vengeance as only a 'possibility' but suggested it anyway, as to allow Sindri's thoughts be known. Sindri had also a want to tear into Vendrussel's flesh, to maim her so that she could never produce. Ragnar did not mentions this, nor yet anyway. Instead, “Or may she be subject to walk in the same steps as Ynness had, with loss of limb and toes, so she might feel as Ynness felt and have a better understanding of the life she has taken.” He spoke it evenly and not with an ounce of guilt, despite how others might react. There would be no pity shown towards Vendrussel, not by the likes of him and if Vendrussel thought the yearling girl so capable despite her ailment, then she could live in those shoes quite well herself too, then?

“Or...” Though another heavy deep breath suggested that this might be something not strong enough to slate a want for true pain of Vendrussel. Ragnar thought it as the nicest though less fulfilling approach. “That Vendrussel relinquish her title as Leader and leave the north, not to return. Dragonford may be left in peace, should they decide not to follow her to live elsewhere. Let it be known that if they still intend to allow none of Northfall to walk the Brim safely, then they not be so hypocritical themselves and not cross unto the Moors.” A pause, his eyes sweep those of the jury. “Vendrussel will remain an enemy of Northfall always and should she return, will be attacked. Those who harbor our enemy will be treated as such as well.” As should be so, as a violation of the agreement. It would be a wonder should Vendrussel have the choice, if she would not sacrifice herself for her actions, would she choose her land or her blood?

And now, Kuhn. He ends his pacing and questions Ragnar's parenting skills. Ragnar shrugs. Until they had pups of their own (plus agressive ones, plus new neighbors taking over), they would never know. “My children at that age are free to leave our claim so long as they do not tresspass onto another's land. When Ynness realized we had neighbors so near, she was upset, but our deal to leave the islanders alone so long as they stuck to claiming ther islands, had already been made- with or without Ynness agreement.” A huff, Ynness had not liked it and quite frankly neither did her parents but it was not her choice to make on the manner. Maybe he should have listened to her after all and she would still be alive. A thought that had hit him in the guts many a time before. “By the time we found out the Brim was now theirs as well, Ynness was already dead.”

“She was an unruly whelp, in her teenage years and quite rebellious but she listened. She might have cared little for herself, but she cared so if it meant her family's safety.” As many whom call themself viking. They did not fear death but would not bring death upon their family and friends so willingly. Their death was their own to choose and the path which they took towards it. As all in Northfall, one would not to into battle with fear in their hearts.

A teenage child looking to push their limits was something the two new mothers sitting our council perhaps yet to encounter, nor a disabled one that was bitter and angry with her plight. “But was still a child. ”They didn't always listen and like said, nothing forced Vendrussel's decision when so many others options could have been had. “She did not die for trespassing the islands.” He stated flatly. She did not die because she was unruly. She did not die because she tresspassed. She did not die because of her agression. “She died on the Brim, a land that none of us knew was even claimed until it was too late.” He was feeling as though he was repeating himself time and time again and it weighed on him, leaving a stiffness in his limbs.

As a note, Kei's message was given on 10.16, Ynness death thread was 9.26. So icly Kei arrived too late. XD Oops.

---

Then, at least, Freya shifts at his side, to set eyes upon him, her question lingered. “No.” An honestly, and then adding, “Only once after when Vendrussel had drug Ynness' body up into our mountains.” And then, another question, a trickier one... He ponders, his lips pulling back in a tight line of frown. “One could only hope that when one speaks, they speak truthfully.” Ragnar did not, at least not intentionally, lie. “I could not predict that after claiming the islands, our new neighbors would then decide it would be punishable by death to tresspass the Brim as well.” He thinks, a quirk to his skull. “At times I have thought, if I could go back with the knowledge I have now I would have said no to peace.” A peace which had been spat on. “And drove them out before they could think to call the islands home and take more there after. ” It might have been the end of Northfall. It might have been the end of Stormborn, but at least they would have fought as a pack, as family. “And yet, the decision to try to keep peace with our new neighbors was to not risk our children's lives. I do not know if driving them out would have saved Ynness or if it would have ended up being the death of even more or if that other path would take from what we have now...” So as much as it hurt, “No, I wouldn't.”
the staff team luvs u

The characters allowed to post in round 4 are (in no order):
@Ira @Quicksilver @Valeska @Kuhn @Freya @Thraximundar
after all court members post, then @Vendrussel will respond cumulatively

---

In the moments between progressive promulgation, when Olive stepped back from the floor to be a mere observer, she could feel nothing but an eerie mixture of dread and excitement. She felt them so extremely, that the experience of it almost deadened the voices of the council members, when they spoke and posed their questions. They were drowned out by her own inner realization of this moment, and the magnitude of it — it was so easy to be rolled under the waves of her own making, but underneath the pomp and the propriety that gathered here, she was frightened of what was to come.

Her tongue felt thick, suddenly useless in the face of her friends, her allies, her contentions.

Thankfully, it was not her turn on the floor. Olive managed to refocus her attentions on the accented intonations of Valeska. She, too, recalled the topic of Ynness’s character coming up in their prior meeting with Ragnar. He had been truthful then (as she would assume him to be now), sharing that she was volatile and aggressive — what wounded, handicapped thing wouldn’t be when found in a compromised position, on disputed land? Olive nodded her head taciturnly, agreeing with the questions the Elysium Priestess put forth.

The familiar stranger from Shiroshika forfeited his tongue, leaving the great elder Thraximundar to utter his own understanding. He was fearless, pointing out the dire hypocrisy of it all, that it might have been prevented by a simple, democratic conversation. The truth of the matter was that the formation of this court came almost a year too late; ideally, there should have been tool available for two disputing clans to diffuse their tensions, or an uninvolved third party to help draw up territory lines.

Hopefully, now the standard would be set, and nothing like this would ever happen again.

Ira then stepped forth, and Olive’s jaw grit, not entirely certain what to expect from the roan northwoman. Their first and only personal interaction was colored with the incident of her own trespassing, but significant time had passed, and it no longer seemed important. Now, with her own children and lands to defend, she more deeply understood Ira’s closure to her.

To Olive's own gratitude, Ira deftly re-examined two points which seemed to fly under the radar: the perspective of the aforementioned messenger, and the pack’s subsequent interactions during the ill-fated boar raids. Olive’s ears pressed back at such a mention, thinking of Archon just behind her, and how easily she might have lost him had not both Dragonford and Northfall come to his aid.

Ever since Olive had ceded her seat on the council to Kuhn, she had been supremely curious about what he would make of this opportunity. She thought that he had likely taken on such an obligation begrudgingly; just one more concession of self he had to make in order to live as a tiger amongst wolves. But when he rose his voice and he swept forward, Olive wondered if perhaps she had done him a disservice, asking him to put aside his past treacheries to advocate for the greater good.

Though pained he looked, his perspective was a good one. He was rightly concerned with how this might be remedied with cultural change; of teaching children to handle problems in a manner different than their forefathers. Olive flexed her toes into the dirt, as his words whipped the energy of motherhood into a frenzy within her.

The dulcet tones of the chanteuse from Northfall were a welcome reprieve. She, of all those courtiers present, had the most insight into the situation at hand. She had likely been there, and witnessed parts of this story with her own eye. She was loyal to Ragnar, and wanted to see his family avenged. Olive did not expect her to be anything she wasn’t, as they were all inherently biased towards their own packs. She gave Ragnar a chance to demonstrate his own recourse, a fitting and just question.

The goddess of Northfall was the last to speak. In truth, there was was an open and unfilled spot on the council, a representative from the pack of Dragonford Falls. Vendrussel had been invited to put one forth, to have such a hand in the casting of her own punishment — in response, she had brought her entire packhood, which encircled them now. The message, Olive felt, was clear.

and finally, Ragnar. He answered each question in turn, providing clarity where it was requested and affirmation when it was not. Olive was impressed with his deference, until the topic came around once again to Vendrussel’s supposed punishment. That was the grisly reason they gathered here today, though such an intention was each obscured by the assay of finer details laid out before them.

Though she steeled herself to yet another call for the dragonwoman’s head, it did not come. Instead he offered other ways of absolving her guilt, all which seemed to maim or strip the woman of her rights in some way; but it did show that Ragnar was a flexible man, and perhaps they might yet find a way forward.

Yet, it seemed that not only a sentence needed to be handed down. Ragnar summarized it well, when it said that it seemed punishable by death to trespass on the brim. Territory lines needed to be settled, and declarations made. Rules must be adhered to; as Kuhn had stated, this was yet another prime example of what could go wrong when hapless individuals were not guided well. Olive stepped forward, and cleared her throat to provide a a segue into the next line of questioning.

“Vendrussel is now open for your interrogation.”

the staff team luvs u

Although the proceedings were grim, and the air surrounding them felt thick and claustrophobic with tension, Valeska was... moved.

She wasn't sure what her expectations had been for such an event, having never participated in very much diplomacy beyond prying apart angry children or trying to soothe her alternating enraged-and-skeptical sister upon introducing new recruits. This was on a scale far beyond the limits of most canine imaginations, but she was proud of the participants so far. Even Ragnar held his composure, diligently sweeping away each question with careful, well-enunciated responses, clearly having had plenty of time to think about it.

A year was a long time for anyone to wait.

Quicksilver remained silent, although the bear, Ira, Kuhn, and Freya alone offered plenty of substance for the Northfall man to chew on. The most impactful statement came from their tiger-friend, Kuhn, whose commanding presence stole the scene from the moment his thundering jaws parted, offering both an insightful query and a final, ominous warning to all gathered among them.

“"In the service of justice, we may be butchers, and the gods may even smile upon it! But... ask yourselves if you would like to see the bodies of your young stacked and bloodied for a hundred years!"”

Valeska felt her ears swivel back on their own accord, letting the words rush over her in a frightening torrent. She saw, too, the way he looked at Quicksilver - at Ira - speaking with the voice of one who had been wronged already in the name of violence, of rage, the tiger who even now may have been desperately struggling with every inner demon that lay in his soul crying out for vengeance against his attackers. Kuhn did not strike her as one who forgave easily, and the fact that he was able to stand here among them with claws sheathed was a miracle in itself.

“"If so, bring them forward!"”

No one uttered a word. A strange, uncomfortable silence descended upon the collected Council, only a light cough or shuffle disrupting the vacuum he had created.

She wondered if Ragnar truly understood his warning for what it was.

Or Vendrussel.

All of them, even - every last creature gathered.

Freya did not have much on her side to offer, for although she was representative to Northfall, it was still no small task to remain impartial with her own interests at stake. She made a valiant effort and offered a few, pointed questions for him to ruminate over before stepping back with the grace of a shadow, and at last Ragnar had the platform once more.

He was a natural public speaker, it seemed. The golden man had enough charisma about him to draw all attention unto himself without expending any effort at all, and he spoke with firm conviction and a clear voice as he deftly handled each representative's questioning like a seasoned politician.

But not a single soul was fooled - he was no politician. He was a warrior, and he craved a warrior's punishment in return for Vendrussel's crime against his daughter.

Stepping back, he allowed Olive the stand again. The sylph may have been quaking inside, but she carried herself serenely beneath the hungry eyes of the Council, her own voice soft and high and demanding to be heard without either force or harshness behind it. All turned to hear her gentle tones guide the collective into their next line of questioning, directing their attention toward the accused - the heart of the issue. She retreated gracefully, while Vendrussel waited with a stern expression.

Valeska was torn. Vendrussel had saved her - and several others - in the great boar attack earlier that summer, risking her own life for veritable strangers as she fought tooth and nail to free them from their prisons. She remembered how she had thrown herself into the fray like only a just woman could, full of light and ferocious intent alike.

Yet they had a duty to fulfill.

“Vendrussel,” Valeska began, once more the first voice to break the quiet among them. Her own voice was taut and unyielding, but her eyes betrayed a sorrow she had similarly cast upon Ragnar as he had spoken of his ill-fated child. There were multiple victims here today. “My only question for you - when you found Ynness upon the Brim, and she made to attack - why did you not call for her kin?”

It was a relevant train of thought. Being such close neighbors, Northfall would have heard her summons from anywhere in the region, and knowing their quick reflexes and keen ears, they would have arrived with due haste.

“Whether she was capable of swimming or not, she was handicapped, according to Ragnar - you could have disengaged the fight and swiftly outpaced her to alert Northfall of their child's errant aggression. Why did you choose to escalate? Perhaps it may not have resulted in her death, in the end - perhaps they might have had a chance to use this as a valuable lesson, and also discuss the... miscommunication concerning territory boundaries.”

Some among them, she knew, would heavily disagree. Perceived trespass was trespass, and some were eager for swift punishment and a firm hand, and whether it resulted in a life lost or not was irrelevant. Valeska, however, was a true mediator at heart - to her, there was always the chance for communication and understanding, but she knew not all shared her opinion. The personalities gathered here were as colorful as the autumn leaves, and it was important that every opinion have a voice.

the staff team luvs u

 He had not cut Kuhn as such an empathic public speaker, and yet, here there were and here he was. Moved by the striped cats words. He found himself nodding, agreeing with his sentiment. An eye for an eye made the world blind. If they didn't cut the violence here then there was no guarantee that the feud would not continue for generations with piles and piles of dead bodies as each wolf vowed to fight for wronged kin. Where would it end?

 And where did it start?

 Ragnar answered the questions thrown at him. Thraximundar listened and filed them away, lowering his head as he scratched at his chest contemplatively. In his eyes there was no reason for a whole life to be lost here. Yes, wolves were territorial creatures like many others... but they were capable of advanced thought. Of making informed decisions... decisions that were steeped in bloodshed towards a child. Yes, unruly as that child may be... was such a thing necessary? Absolutely not.

 He took a breath and exhaled. "I want to know the same as Valeska and I would like to, add, was there no way to incapacitate her? Or otherwise stop her assault?" A valiant wolf from a warrior family, yes, but still handicapped. Could Vendrussel not have held her down or done something else that would have enabled her to call as Valeska had suggested? Perhaps insights into her thoughts on that day, despite how long it had been, would help them come to a determination.

the staff team luvs u

After giving a vague vision for the importance of this trial,  the cat turned away to calm himself taking his place back by the great bear. Laying himself down, pressed his claws into a loose piece of wood, as he listened to Ragnar give his replies.  Though the cat figured Ragnar to be a trustworthy and honorable man, the tiger couldn't help but clench his jaw as his question was essentially swatted to the side.  It seemed Ragnar didn't care about that.  

Just when Kuhn thought it was apparent that Ragnar wasn't here to be pragmatic, the Northern ruler laid out a few potential possibilities to appease the scales.  Tapping a claw on the branch that he had been toying with, the tiger looked as if he was considering the possibilities.  

Taking a long time in silence, he only listened once again to the questions posed by Valeska and Thrax.   They both asked Vendrussl an important question:  why did you have to kill her?   That was why they where all here, wasn't it? Having already heard both sides of the story in private form both parties he knew the answer already.  It was tradition, pride, honor.  None of these things where good answers.  But, it was also why Yness was there in the first place,  it was why both sides bickered over hunting rights,  it was why they would continue to die if this didn't end. 

Finding a moment in the silence he chose to speak, while remaining seated.  "Vendrussl... Once I asked you a similar question.  But, I still wonder...  Where is your line?  What result here would cause you to call for the aid of your pack, and what would you accept to make this right?"   
 

the staff team luvs u

No sooner had she spoke did Kuhn wish to fill the air with his dramatics. Others may be moved by his words, but his delivery was aggressive. She could see it in his face and hear it in his growl. The man spoke of an end to bloodshed, but his gaze set her way suggested something else. However, she did not flinch at his words. There was some truth to them, but she could not wholly agree. Not all matters could be settled with words, just as not all could be settled with action. The importance was knowing where to draw the line. Pick and choose your battles, as they say.

What the striped lord failed to acknowledge was the fault in his words. Children were already stacking, bloodied and gone, because diplomacy had failed. If differences could not be settled with words, then action was all there was left. Ragnar spoke with honesty as he addressed each question carefully. He was sure to place his truths, while also acknowledging some faults. Ynness was not a perfect child. She was unruly and full of fire...something she too was familiar with, but it seemed the issue had not been brought to Northfall, only to the girl whose name now rang out as a victim. A girl who knew no better than to fan the flames before her in hopes of watching something burn. There had been no chance to teach her the dangers of playing with fire, or so it seemed to Ira.

From Ragnar's word, Vendrussel and her pack were hypocrites. They cast death to those who lived nearby for merely standing on hunting grounds, but not once did they consider their actions along Northfall's. As someone who did stake claim over additional hunting land, she did not understand it. Of course, she was never happy to find wolves taking from her land, and wandering scents traveled too near to borders for comfort, but death was never something she would serve as punishment unless they were truly dangerous to her people or her children. A child, no less, had no room to impose danger when faced with capable paws. If only their messenger could stand present to shed a third light on the events...but they would have to do without her. Her absence spoke volumes as it seemed she too did not stand by her leader like others who absconded before. Unless she had perished, of course.

No matter the whereabouts or status of one, there were still those who had confirmed defected from Dragonford, some even going as far as seeking Northfall after hearing more to the story. Surely that spoke to their leader of her actions? How had those beside her found comfort in supporting her actions enough so to show their face here today? The roan queen was doubtful that Vendrussel had lied to them, else she would be painted a fool here tonight as the truth was laid bare. Mistakes were one thing that could be forgiven, but Vendrussel's actions had been decided. She was hasty and jumped to the most ill fit punishment that could be conceived. That alone was despicable. 

An inaudible huff came from her nose as she gleaned more on this boar incident. It quickly became clear how most present knew each other. They had all had something at stake that drew cause to meet at a specific location. That being said, it confirmed to her that it was not relevant to the trial. They all had a reason to go. Not for the goodness of one another, but to serve and protect kith or kin. Of course, one could argue they wished to help all involved, but there was no knowing who exactly was involved until your nose was buried deep. It did not justify the wrongdoings to Northfall, nor did the poor leadership that resulted in her own dead. She had been in a situation similar, after all. Shiroshika did not owe Vanderfell for the death of one of their Hedrad. That blood weighed only her paws, but Ira would not try to deny that.

The vengeance Ragnar sought was bloody, and to many here, perhaps gruesome, but they were fair in the eyes of the High Queen. Ragnar had come from a culture akin to her own, so it was only natural she would find his terms reasonable. They even went as far as preventing the blood of future children, as Kuhn had so brashly insinuated, by ending seasons of war with the punishment of one. It was, by far, a kind offer, even if living could be more of a punishment than death. So long as the blood of children was not offered, Ira had no qualms with his desires. There was, however, one idea that stuck out the most. Rather or not Vendrussel accepted it, she believed she should not bear the title of ruler. She claimed it herself. The woman was young and inexperienced and instead of taking the consequences of her actions, she blamed it on her youth. She would only further doom those who served her if she continued with this mindset.

Perhaps it was easy for Ira to judge on this case. She, too, had a daughter limited by her body. A daughter who was frustrated by those limitations and believed herself to be more. A daughter that easily could be, if only she listened, but Rea was a child and knew no better until time served her parents words, or she was met with reality. Too often, Ira's caution for her body drew Rea's frustration, and likely a favor to Hiero as a parent, but it was out of love that she forced these reminders. She could not comment on Ragnar's parenting for she had hardly seen it, but it was clear from the time they met what his family meant to him. There was no doubt in her mind, that he had done what he could to teach Ynness how to be strong despite her limitations, but she had not yet learned restraint. She did not deserve to die for being a child.

Ira weighed the questions rose around her as she thought on her own. She had plenty of choice words for the young leader, but now was not the time for lectures. This was a trial. “I will start by backtracking to Northfall's hunting grounds. Your messenger shared Northfall's intentions upon your settlement, correct? Why did you believe it fine to cross their hunting grounds when you had put one of their own to death for doing the same?” Rather or not Vendrussel was informed, surely she would have smelled their scent frequenting, just as their hunting grounds likely did for Northfall. Unsettling, surely, to have someone close wander them, but they committed no crime on a piece of land that often drew travelers. It was for this reason, she had established boundaries with Elysium prior to their settlement. Ira would not echo what the others had already spoken. They all wished to know why she had chosen death over anything else and Ira feared if she led down that path of questioning, her bias would distract from the question.

“Furthermore, you claim to have not known Northfall's allies, but you did know those they were acquainted with. Acquaintances that may have very well sided with Northfall already. Why spread your personal dealings with strangers and mere acquaintances when the matters should have been discussed with Northfall themselves?” Perhaps she had rightful reason, but as things stood, it seemed as Ragnar suggested. A ploy to gain the favor of Northfall's allies. “You wish to end things, so then confess your pleas to those who have a direct say in the war. Seeking those on the side only draws more into the bloody battle.” Of course, that was exactly what they had gathered here today to do, but at the very least, perhaps others would learn from Vendrussel's lesson. 

Lastly, there had been something Ragnar mentioned that no other seemed to draw attention to. He openly admitted an attempt on Vendrussel's life. One that failed, of course, but one that supposedly dragged in an innocent bystander. “When you were attacked on the beach, how close were you to your home? Was it reasonable to believe from an outside perspective that you may have been with a new wolf entering your ford?” If so, there was hardly room to blame the false attack, as unfortunate as it was. “Additionally, is swimming truly the only way to reach your land?” She had never traveled to the ocean herself, but she knew of tunnels and tides. Perhaps Ynness had found something that aided in her arrival the first time she breached the brim. Either way, how she arrived there mattered little to Ira. She was killed on spare lands, not the isles themselves.

the staff team luvs u

^^

A lot of it went back and forth. Needless questions in Freya's eyes were asked but to them, they thought important. Her ears would twitch and swivel to the sound of each of their voices, their questions and their thoughts. Subtly did she read their expressions, seeking the answers that lay within and may not be so obvious to someone simply looking. Selfishly, the titaness would desire this trial to come out in Ragnar's favour. It would serve to give him a peace of mind that the murderer of one of his offspring was dead and thus, they would be able to move on. She did wonder, though, how the pack behind Vendrussel's rule might react to a decision that meant nothing good for her.

Would they riot?

Would they fight?

Freya knew that wolves were at a disadvantage when it came to the claws and teeth of felines, superior in their sharpness and their agility -- the only one that might offer any true leverage over the tiger within Dragonford's numbers was Kuhn. The wolves... well, Ragnar and Freya's skills were sharpened and honed. Part of her doubted that the little grey High Priestess from Elysium had any real skill though that wasn't to say her company held none. Ira... she knew nought of but supposed that she wouldn't come to something that might possibly go awry without guarding herself and the thin man decorated in whites and silvers was unlikely to be her brawn.

What she said was true, if she was to die here today, it would be alongside Ragnar. Protecting Ragnar. Fighting with Ragnar. For Ragnar. For her. Freya had no doubt that once she died here she would be born again though she only hoped that if she did, she was born again in her luscious Goddess skin with the flaxen hair, ready to hand pick Ragnar for her fields and hall. She wondered if she might be able to do some sacrifices or prayers to the Gods to demand that Ragnar would be given his own life cycle where he would be born again like her -- if they lived past this court. It was a tasty thought, one that she couldn't help but glance towards Ragnar when she thought on it. Would he want that, she wondered?

Casting her stare back upon the company when their questions were asked, Freya's tongue came to taste the back of her teeth as she grew thoughtful. "You speak of regret and you make apologies, Vendrussel," the flaxen goddess would hum, "for the murder of a child, though you say you were not an adult yourself, of course -- but I wonder, would you be as Ragnar stands had it been your child?" There wasn't heat to her voice nor accusation, only curiosity as she cast her multicoloured gaze to that of the blue-touched woman. She would think on Ira's last question and she had known from her own eyes that the land was cast away in the ocean, spying it from the edges before the Brim. She wasn't surprised to learn that a child of Ragnar, even one handicap would be successful in such a feat -- their blood determined. It was a shame that Ynness' blood had not been mixed with that of the goddess for then anything would have been possible.

Perhaps then she might have been born again, soothing Ragnar's aching heart.

^^

the staff team luvs u

Vendrussel waited, patiently unmoving. Calm as the steady waters she was born and raised in, with every stance she remained firm in her wait. Yet to look back at her pack once more, but her mind twirled and so ; she knew that her actions would be given a heavy sentence. She remembered the way the Draghoda Clan had been given there own, the way they ruled by blood and so and it seemed she didn’t fall far from the tree, despite having misgivings to some of the continual practices. In the end her thoughts could not escape, and treating one as another warrior.. Well, though she understood what could’ve been and the haste actions, in the end she feels that treating Ynness like any other, was still rightly so. She thought she was the only one to see her as a warrior.

She looked at the court, the words of Ragnar given and the way he moved and toiled so. Saying though she was one to do, she should applaud him, to take credit and non-credit where it was due. To disclaim the prowess of his pack, to the way he acted as if he found the boars, and Dragonford was but a second-thought. She remembered finding the elysium wolf, the bringing to them, to the boar they dealed with, to finally finding the lair and the chaos that followed.

She turned strong, “I want to make it clear to the court that every aggression before the crime was on Leviathian Sepulcher. To him entering, to his partner, to his kids. They had breached the borders multiple times, and many times with aggression, as well as threats that came with being on what they claimed, as their land, their waters, their beach.”

He who did not control his own, “and his continual, of unable to control his members. To the children who joined the fray of the boar fight, upon Dragonford and Elsyium finding their lair, to find even their own locked as well. Though the guilty party shows today, and continually shows as I stand here before not disagreeing what I have done. But I am also here to present the dangers that follow.”

Vendrussel knew well there was not escaping. She thought when asking her members,to disband or so, what is what they want to do? She was determined to face them all, as the time of court as nigh’. Though if it never came, she was ready for the war that came and the heads that would be spilled.

“At the time, my only thought was one who crossed our very waters, and the clashing of fangs, was that of an equal. To already be threatened by harm by their packmates for even looking at their young who trespassed, to then being grabbed by their young with the intent to kill. Every thought was that to look as an equal, and prepare for the consequences of so. And so my actions of that same wording, present here. Far enough where neither packs would've heard.” When she thought of so, in truth Vendrussel did not think about it. She hesitated for it, by all her learnings that once who presented with harm, was to prepare to be harmed. Would Northfall or Dragonford heard such callings? Over the waters? To the mountains? She did not think so, but she knew she could be wrong. She was no coward to hide her body, and brought it fully to their land. Foolish? She knew as well. In the end she did it, but even thinking.. Would her howls even reach their peaks? Or would it be she, who was dead upon the beach?

But it was better then her body being brought to the oceans floor, rotting, with those wondering, what had happened, “There is no miscommunication to the drawn scent-lines of Leviathian Sepulcher, where most of it is the sea, and the few specks of grain and rocks are covered with scents.” Some had only similar takes, and others had more.

"He claims Dragonford has crossed his, but on the contrary, it has been said to avoid their lands for less blood, and yet they have continually crossed. A few times, have I met their continual crossing. Rather this is the first to hear of this claim of the moors." She remembered visiting the edges of the moor, stepping inside to grab a vial of flowers. Only once, and to have pet a lil' boy of pink. A caretaker on the wind, and just as she came for flowers, so did she leave. Their smell was vaguely upon the winds, but she never drew close.

"Those I met, plainly had asked why was their grievances against them." To met some with hostility and warns of greed, wolves who asked why was so? What explanation to diverge in such an opinion? To be near and far, some on the brim, and some not. She opened up when asked. Then she turned to the Northfall representative, she was not a woman Vendrussel was familiar with ; it was not Sindri that she knew but there was a calmness to, a regality that she was not used to seeing when it came to that pack. For a few moments she had to ponder on her question..

"Where I am from, we are raised that if you attempt to take a life, you are ready to forfeit your own. In truth, I do not know. It is said parenthood changes your perspective. Coming to this region has changed my own from the culture I was raised in. I do not know if I would seek vengeance if my kin continued to harass, or if war would come from it." Vendrussel said in an honest truth — for her opinion now and then could evolved. She could not see herself staying low and accepting the truth, but she wasn't sure either if she would venture to the lengths Ragnar has had his pack do. But she also didn't know if she wouldn't, for Vendrussel knew parenthood changed many. Looking at all the faces today, many who were parents.. All they saw was someone who could potentially kill their own, and nothing more.

“I stand here today fully aware of my sins and not shying away. However I fully come with every intent,” a snarl rippled, “to make aware the court of the dangers that lay. To the allies that are with them, to the wolves that trust them..” She would look at Ragnar, without batting an eye, and looking back toward the rest. Her fur had rippled with an aggression, before smoothing out. She made no indication though malice was there, she was unmoving, no lunging or so. Only that of anger.

“Wolves that attack strangers who know nothing of association, away from what was Dragonfords home and where scent diverged who was who. There was no mistaking it was a loner. To the lives they spat on, to the lives they attack for what they claim they wish for mine. Who is to say at this very moment if the court didn’t take my own life, that they would not attack now? Who is to say that their greed, their bloodlust, will not end? When their fangs will turn upon you, who do not agree with their ideals?” To every court member she looked at, to those that were the apparent claim of an allyship..

“At the time I offer not my limbs or my kin ; but I offer my very life, for the court to take. A life as the exchange to present the scorn of Northfall, and the knowledge that all are known in the north. By their lies, by their greed, and surely so.. Someone else will be the next subject of their reckless ruling. When will they want to claim more, as they already had with Dragonford land?

Those allied to turned against or dragged down by their chaos and greed, and shown as so to the innocents of the mass. They did not stop at my packmates, as they so claim they will leave alone, but they went after loners. Whose fangs will they turn to next?” A paw was pushed forward, grasping to the ground below. The so-called chaos and the wanting to cease of actions, but she did not believe it would be stopped. The actions would only be momentarily paused, a focus that was onto the dragon wolves because of a revenge they seek. Yet when solved, Vendrussel fully believed their actions of greed and pettiness will take them elsewhere. To claim more, and more..

“To everyone who presented, and to the very Gods you all believe in: To the Ancients that I believe in! Right now, my life is for the taking of so. All for the knowledge, the safety of the ford, and the disorder will not end, and that the curse of Northfall, will continue.”

However that was her last words, that would be spoken in this life. The sky itself almost seemed to twirl as a calling, to hear her voice that boomed as she stood up in a presentation of what was. Vendrussel knew her time was near, to either the leadership or the very life she had.. So, the dragoness went full-forward to personally offer it. For the safety of her own, and to make it known, that none will be stopped.

Static brushed into the air, and bursted forth — and like they heard, thunder struck down Vendrussel.

the staff team luvs u

Round 5 begins now! Anyone present in this thread is welcome to post.
Next round begins Nov 27th, so we have a buffer with the upcoming holiday ♥

---

The anxiety that Olive felt during Ragnar's interrogation did not cease when Vendrussel took her place at the stand. The line of questioning was different, in an eerie manner. There was an eerie sense of calm present, one that the grieving parent had distinctly lacked — it was the calm of a woman, a suspect, who knew she was doomed. It was either she, or the peace of the realm as a whole.

and everyone around her knew what was at stake, too.

Most of the council members wanted to know why. How could Vendrussel, the leader of her own faction, be so irresponsible? Why didn't she call for Dragonford, or Northfall, or anyone? Olive could not help the way it made the fur alone her spine prickle, at the thought that not everyone might act in a way that makes sense, that was bound by societal expectations. It made Olive nervous, to have five daughters existing in this world where they, too, might make a mistake — might push the wrong creature one step too far — and bear an irreparable punishment for it.

It was Ira's point that brought Olive's concerns back to herself, and whatever role she had played in the war-mongering between Ragnar and Vendrussel. Olive and Tiberius, each in their own experience, had been a part of the 'acquaintances and allies' that the dragonness had sought out. It was the first time that Olive felt a certain sort of vehemence for being brought into the fray, not even by her own ally but by a self-serving stranger who did not seem to care for peace.

The naiad felt somewhat used, as if her better nature and desire to collaborate had been used against her. Perhaps it was simply safer to keep her business within the Vale, and let no others near it.

Affirming her train of thought, Vendrussel circled back around to the fact that Northfall wasn't innocent. They, too, had perpetrated crime after crime upon Dragonford and Vendrussel herself, though they weren't on trial for it now. Then she stood tall, almost puffed up, explaining how she was prepared to sacrifice her own life, in return for taking a life that was not yet due for reckoning. The shrouded seraph glanced to Ragnar, attempting to read his reaction to this; it was all that he and Sindri had desired, was it not?

Olive's pale throat tightened, as she had hoped another death would have been avoided by democratic process. As it stood, it seemed there was no true need of a court, of the council — perhaps even the crowd of onlookers and judges had worked against justice, encouraging Vendrussel to the extremity of her martyrdom?

The crack that came then, the noise and sheer intensity of it, pierced her consciousness. Without her brain taking a moment to think, her nervous system sent the mother hurdling backwards to shield both her children with her own body. The storm was over before it even began.

The gods, in all their certainty and might, had spoken indeed.

the staff team luvs u