Victor vs. Loser [Spring Tournament]

[RHIANNON !]

WELCOME TO THE SPRING TOURNAMENT

The tournament will begin with the beta male challenges.

Dagyr x Ahote
Lyta x Lyra x Sandralina

Rhiannon will begin the thread. I require a posting order to maintain the order of this thread. If you have not posted for three days your character will be skipped. If they are in a fight, it will be considered a withdraw and the opponent will win via default. I will lead the thread through as it goes with OOC posts. I may intervene if I see powerplays in fights. If you are not playing fairly I will immediately step in and become a spar mod. I do not want to do so, please don't make me. Each wolf is only allowed one FULL dodge per fight, those with time warp may have TWO full dodges.

[atrb=border,0,true][atrb=cellSpacing,0,true][atrb=cellPadding,0,true][atrb=width,475,true]

[atrb=background,http://i930.photobucket.com/albums/ad144/FallArrow/RHIANNONbg4.png] Today was the day, and Rhiannon felt amazing. Perhaps it was the hardy supper she had made of that jackalope, or getting up early and bathing in the spring, but she felt wonderful. Her muscles were limber, she was in good spirits and things felt right. It was the first time in months that her life seemed to be going in the right direction. She purred happily, stretching. She had been bathing on the top of the canyon, her fur drying slowly in the summer sun. It was almost time for the tournament to begin. She'd let the wolves have a few more minutes to bask in the sun, or finish their tasks before calling them. She only needed Gypsy, Dagyr and Ahote really. Ardent too, she supposed. The alpha female closed her eyes, inhaling deeply before sliding to her feet. Both paws gripped the sandy tops, her claws digging into it. Her eyelids fluttered open to reveal her hazel eyes and she looked to the sky. It was sunny, though a few clouds dotted the horizon. Throwing her head back she let out a howl, alerting the members of the cadre that the tournament would begin. Any of the wolves were invited to join them, and she encouraged them to come watch their comrades. It would be exciting and good for the challenging members to know what they stood against as the fighting progressed. As she waited the little myou sat on her haunches, hazel eyes looking for the forms of her pack to begin coming out of the woodwork. Her striped tail curled around her feet, and she sat statue still, waiting and watching. ------------------------------------- OOC ;; e___e I'm sick. My post sucks. I suck. xD

[dagyr]

(and challenger #1 enters.... post looked so much longer in the quick reply box...)

Dagyr had been lounging in the sun, resting from his days of training coming up to this. Stretching himself he heard his alphess's call. That time was it? His blood hummed in excitement and nervousness. Finally Dagyr would be able to prove himself and his loyalties to Rhiannon. With a stretch and a yawn Dagyr began to climb the stairway. His paws had gotten much more used to the narrow stairway and in some places didn't even have to look where he was stepping. Pretty soon he would be bounding up these steps as if he had been born on them, he chuckled as he reached the top. Rhiannon was right, it got easier with practice. His brown eyes looked down into the canyon, exploring it's beauty with his eyes. Nothing could ever surpass this view... well almost nothing. Dagyr turned and headed toward his alphas.

Hello Rhiannon. His large form bowed before her as he spoke. How are you doing on this glorious day? He didn't really have to ask, even from where he was standing he could see and smell that she had cleaned herself today and her body sat like a noble statue as she watched for her pack. She looked amazing and gave off an aura of power and peacefulness. He sat not far from her, but far enough so as not to crowd her when the others arrived. He knew his fight was first, and he couldn't wait for Ahote to arrive. Lets get this over with...

[Ahote]

[atrb=border,0,true][atrb=cellSpacing,0,true][atrb=cellPadding,0,true][atrb=width,500,true]

[atrb=background,http://i.imm.io/62ae.jpeg] Finally done with most of his traveling Ahote had decided to lay near the water, a little away from everything. As usual the large male was caught within his own mind, working the last month’s actions over in his head, mulling this or that. He had not gone in the water for any long amount of time since Lyra had gotten hurt but his coat was not suffering, he still went in to be clean. He was now almost fully dry and enjoying the hot sun on his nearly black coat. His breath came in slow, long pants and the horns on his head gleamed brightly in the sun light. A very desirable specimen of maleness if one was ever to be seen. He knew the tournament was coming, and he knew there was no way he would walk away empty handed. As high as he could go. That was his plan. Soon enough though his peace, or his peaceful appearance by the sound of Rhiannon calling. So it was time. With a large smirk on his face he hefted his weight up to all four legs and stretched his back, and picked up each foot as high as he could. After a few long moments of stretching he made his way across the Cadre territory in the direction he heard her howl. Which, much to his disgust involved, climbing. Careful and taking his time he ascended into the area where the tournament was to held. Now was not the time to have an injury of any sort. Rolling his eyes as a few rocks went tumbling, his horns finally appeared before the rest of him on the top platform. He was barely winded, having taken his time but he could see Dagyr and Rhiannon. It was not surprising the little kiss up would be here before him. In all actuality Dagyr was very close to what his brother looked liked and it clenched his heart and put knots in his stomach. Emotionally, he dreaded the idea of fighting the male. Mentally, there was not a qualm around that large brain of his. He made his way slowly over to the opposite side of the male, and when his eyes landed on him he simply stared blankly at him. There truly was not a verbal sentiment appropriate for the occasion and so silence was preferred. He turned his nose up for a long moment and looked into Rhiannon’s eyes. “It is a pleasure to be here. A fine day for the tournament with everyone rested and ready.” He dipped his head back down and stared at Dagyr, out-right and almost rudely. If he was a pup and Dagyr was his brother at this poin the would have stuck his tongue out and tackled him, right off the cliff. However, now that we were older, and oh so much wiser he would sit and wait until Rhiannon gave the go ahead. His mind actually had the decency to wander to the other fights, the lower ranks that the females would be fighting for. Ranks that would be handed down based on the voracious apatite of those within the same pack. Today would be the day that they all got to see a different side of themselves. Some would prevail, and some would fail. However those who prevailed in any sense would walk away with not only a victory but more responsibility…It was on this that he pondered while he waited for other members.

[RHIANNON !]

[atrb=border,0,true][atrb=cellSpacing,0,true][atrb=cellPadding,0,true][atrb=width,475,true]

[atrb=background,http://i930.photobucket.com/albums/ad144/FallArrow/RHIANNONbg4.png] Rhiannon had not been waiting long until Dagyr approached the canyon, stepping up from the staircase which wound down the canyon. A smile graced her lips - something about the yagi seemed to bring out the best in her. She nodded back to him as he spoke, the motion breaking her statue like appearance. She didn't move despite that though, her body staying still as she spoke. "Good, quite excited. Today is sure to be an eventful day," she replied, for once feeling calm. It was the anticipation in the air - something great was about to take place. It wasn't soon after Dagyr appeared that Ahote pulled himself over the canyon wall. She smiled at him too, liking both the yagis. Though both drastically different, she found solace in their company, and as such was glad that it was these two who were challenging for beta. He said nothing as he approached, and Rhiannon merely watched. They had spoken not too long ago, and she had come to the realization that they were not too different. Despite the size, the horns, they had similar ideals and backgrounds. When he finally did speak, her smile grew, nodding her head. "It is, isn't it? I couldn't have asked for a better day. Though I suppose, a nice thunderstorm would have been quite interesting for dramatic effect," she grinned a bit, before standing up, and circling the two. It was easy to see that the two were quite easily matched. Both were worthy of the title of beta, and Rhia had made a decision days ago about the tournament. It was not her usual approach to things - strength was how she liked to see the ranks handed out. But something was different about this. To have them fight each other seemed a trivial waste of time. She already knew who she wanted in each rank. "I know that you two were supposed to fight it out, but," she paused for a moment, coming to the front of the two males and glancing between their eyes. "I decided it would be easier for me to make a decision myself." She let her words sink in. This was not the plan for the other ranks, no, those could be settled by tooth and claw. She smiled a little bit before seating herself in front of them. "I hope that this does not come as bad news to either of you. In my regards you are both evenly matched. If I could place you both as beta, I would," she purred, her tail curling around her haunches. "Ahote," she turned towards the male, her head dipped down. "You know you have my respect and that I cherish our friendship. I know you to be a loyal and strong member of Styrrstdar. Any alpha would be pleased to have you as a member. I have decided your strength of character and body would suit you better in the rank of gamma," she spoke evenly, letting that sink in and turn towards Dagyr, "and Dagyr you have been nothing but a friend to me, and a helpful advisor as well. I would like you to take on the role of beta. Because of this I will see neither of you as higher or lower than the other. In my mind, both of you have equal power. Just different jobs. Ahote, you represent the strength of body and character of this pack. Dagyr you are the steadiness and firmness of paw that will pull this pack together through the toughest of times. I want you two to work together, and with me and Gypsy. For the four of us will be the structure that this pack will be based on. I will not, and frankly cannot move forward without both your strength backing my own. As much as I hate to admit it, I am only a small she-wolf. Against a yagi, or a group of yagi," she finally paused, looking right at Ahote. She had mentioned her concern about the empire to him only a few days ago, "I would stand little to no chance. Both of you not only keep the pack safe, but yourselves and each other." With that she closed her mouth, waiting for them to speak. She had wished Gypsy would be there to hear her speak, but at least now they could move onto the fights. ------------------------------------- OOC ;; HURP CALLING ALL GAMMASSSS

[|-Sandralina-|]

[atrb=border,0,true][atrb=cellSpacing,0,true][atrb=cellPadding,0,true][atrb=width,422,true]

[atrb=background,http://i1203.photobucket.com/albums/bb390/Bluewillowtree/Sandramid.jpg] The wind was pleasant, filtering between her dark blue and white feathers. Her fur was flattened from the force of the wind as she flew and scanned her bright amber eyes along the edges of her pack's territory. She had heard Rhiannon's call to begin the tournament, but she knew that it began with the beta fights, so she stayed out of it. She had spent the last few days training in order to be ready for Lyra and Lyta, knowing that it wouldn't be easy any way one looked at it. For all she knew, she would have to forfeit because she wouldn't be able to stand up to them. However, that was not for sure just yet. She still had time. It was soon that she came to spot the forms of her comrades, as well as her Alphess, Rhiannon. Compared to the barn swallow myou, her leader was rather small. Although, it did not cause her respect for the female to waver. Upon seeing them and the situation at hand, she assumed that the beta fight of the tournament had ended and the winner had been chosen. She shifted the position of her wings and descended with speed, flaying them out and stretching her legs in front of her to land a few feet from them all. Sandralina folded her wings into her sides and faced them, nodding to the two males she did not know, then bowed to Rhiannon, just as she had done when they first met. "Rhiannon. Lovely day, no? I thought I would drop in and see how the tournament was commencing. Has the beta challenge ended?" Estoni squealed and seemed to flap around in the back of her head, apparently excited about the challenge that approached. Even Sandra felt the excitement bubble up in her chest, causing her heart to flutter against her ribcage, but she allowed herself to remain composed. If it was time for her challenge, then being serious was the only option here.

[Gypsy]

[atrb=border,0,true][atrb=cellSpacing,0,true][atrb=cellPadding,0,true][atrb=width,500,true]

[atrb=background,http://i50.tinypic.com/34z0jf9.jpg] Gypsy's long legs carried her steadily up the cliff edge, she had heard the cal for the competitors as she was coming back into the pack lands, she was running a little late, but for what it was worth it was a good reason. Her dark pelt still had some dried dirt and sand on it. She had spent the night at the cove, it took her a while to walk back but here she was. She made her way over the edge of the battle grounds, her cold, blue eyes danced over the gathered males. She found Rhia in amongst the few there and moved to speak with her. She fluttered her wings slightly and adjusted her antennae to fall down the back of her head. "Rhiannon, " She spoke low, so she was the only one that could hear, "We may have a contact in the Mafia....one that will prove useful given a little time." She had been at the beach all night speaking with Gotham, she felt he had the potential to take a strong hold on the Mafia, and with that an alliance could form between the Cadre and those wolves in the swamp... She took her place by Rhia's side, once she had explained her absence. Even though she didn't like checking in, she felt it was expected of her now that she was beta.

[lyta]

Lyta stepped out from the shadow of the rock, her expression schooled into calmness. Inside, Lyta was blazing with emotion; rage at Ahote, the annoying, stuck-up Yagi, being given the position she so longed for without even having to fight for it; Dagyr being raised above her, again without even having to fight for it. She herself was unable to challenge any higher than Gamma without offending Rhia.
Her blood ran even more hot as Rhia spoke of Gypsy, Rhia, Dagyr and Ahote as the four most important wolves in the pack. Lyta had trouble keeping off her face her fury, her shock, her indignation and hurt. Not only had the alpha she'd thought oh-so-fair included the stuck-up idiot Ahote, she'd idiotically undermined her own power by saying that she couldn't defeat a Yagi, and most importantly, she'd left Lyta out. The red Lyxxus was as skilful as any of them, and better than some; brave and loyal and honourable. And yet this idiot valued Ahote and Gypsy over her. Lyta felt the respect she'd begun to feel for the wolf drain away like lightning.
In another part of herself, away from the fiery anger, was excitement. She had waited for this day a long time. Finally she was going to be recognised and respected. Finally she was going to get a rank, even if it was only Gamma. The concept of losing didn't occur to her. She was confident and ready.
She had, of course, considered challenging Rhia herself. She was torn with regrets and indecisions over this.
There were two reasons why she had decided not to. Firstly, she'd never seen the alpha female fight. For all Lyta knew, she could be an excellent fighter- might even cause the skilful Lyxxus trouble. Losing would mean dropping to Omega or leaving the Cadre. And quite frankly, she'd rather die than be Omega.
If that had been the only thing stopping her, she would have gone for it, especially since Rhia had just admitted she couldn't defeat a Yagi- and Lyta could, absolutely could, and had many times in the past. Moreover, Lyta'd never particularly wanted a pack anyway if she couldn't be leader; she had only joined the Cadre because she was unfamiliar with the lands around here, their edible plants and their poisonous ones, which animals were dangerous and suchlike; without a pack to protect her, she might have been dead already. Now, however, Lyta had learnt. She knew that she would adapt very quickly to life as a loner. Besides, she'd always been a risk-taker; better to challenge Rhia and maybe get what she wanted than to not challenge and never find out.
The real reason Lyta would not challenge Rhiannon, however little respect she had left for her, was that Rhiannon had helped her with the griffin, very possibly saving her life. Taking away the pack which Rhiannon had founded and led would be a poor thanks. However much Lyta was ambitious, she was also honourable; honour was her core principle, and she had to at least acknowledge the debt she owed the wolf. She would not be challenging the alphess, nor the beta which Rhiannon had chosen. However tempting it was.

None of this showed on her face as she approached the fight area. She put her tail below Rhiannon's, but kept it carefully equal with Ahote's, and only the barest shade below Gypsy and Dagyr. Ahote might be gamma now, and until she'd won the challenge, she was still a Subordinate. That didn't mean he wasn't annoying, stuck-up, and completely undeserving of his rank. Lyta refused to make any gesture of inferiority towards him. She kept her tail below Gypsy's and Dagyr's purely out of respect for Rhiannon. She didn't know Dagyr well, and Gypsy was as stuck-up as Ahote- and far, far weaker than the red Lyxxus. She really didn't know why she stayed in this pack of weaklings and annoying stuck-up Yagi.

Her face was still perfectly calm and confident as she faced Rhiannon. "I trust you aren't going to sort out our challenges as you did theirs?" she asked, as politely as she knew how, which wasn't particularly polite, but she hoped it was civil enough since she was honestly trying her best. "I'd much rather feel I'd earned the rank."
Lyta had absolutely no doubt in her mind that if it came to a decision, she would be picked. She had been in the Cadre for longer than Sandry and Lyra put together. Plus, Lyra couldn't get along with anybody except Yagi, and Sandry, as a Myou, wouldn't get a lot of respect. And neither of them were as strong fighters as Lyta. Of that, the red Lyxxus was sure.
Yes, she was always this confident.

She fell silent as Gypsy spoke to Rhiannon, then nodded to the alpha and beta and moved into the fight area. She was already ready, in subtle ways; her weight was low, spread evenly over her paws, her ears beginning to twitch backwards in preparation for flattening against her head. Her claws were unsheathed to their full extent, long and hooked and razor sharp. A slow, steady count was beginning in her head, and her mind was subtly touching against the threads of time, starting to feel them out and tug gently until Lyta was poised on the very edge of slow-time.
"Ready when you lot are," she announced to the general gathering. A savage smile was already beginning to curl around her lips. She had this.

(OOC: After I saw Ahote's and Dagyr's responses to this post, rather than posting another post, I just wanted to make it clear via modifying this into the post that Lyta isn't saying anything about, and is trying not to give any signs of, her thoughts. Most of the post is all in her head, the only thing she's saying is the comment on hoping her challenge won't be sorted as the beta male's was. She doesn't intend that to be, or say it as, an insult (I myself only even realised it could be seen as insulting after I saw Dagyr and Ahote's responses). I tried to write it like she's been sitting there a while, seen/heard anything, so it makes sense, and not just entering at the beginning of the post or cresting the hill. Sorry if my post was unclear, I was in a emotional-posty mood, rather than an accurate-clear-posty mood.)

[Ahote]

[atrb=border,0,true][atrb=cellSpacing,0,true][atrb=cellPadding,0,true][atrb=width,500,true]

[atrb=background,http://i.imm.io/62ae.jpeg] To be perfectly honest, Ahote like Dagyr. Something about him spoke volumes about the one person he had cared about and lost years ago. As Rhia commented about having a thunderstorm for sheer effectual value Ahote couldn’t help but let a near devious smile appear on his face. Indeed, the change in terrain would be perfect for making the fights more interesting he had to agree at least in that respect. Although, by the end he might have looked like a drowned water rat of epic physical proportions. Soon however Rhia’s words put them both on edge. They would not be fighting? This would definitely be interesting as far as the large male was concerned. He sat back and listened intently, keen on what the smaller female had to say. He knew there was no way each of them could hold the same rank, not with Gypsy also being beta, and although he had not met the small female he could not help but feel she was attractive and intriguing. Perhaps he would pursue that avenue of meeting after the tournament. When she turned and spoke directly to him he nodded, and smiled bowing his head. He was indeed loyal to Rhia and thusly the pack and he knew through their conversation that what he had told Rhia had struck a large cord with the smaller female. His heart sank slightly when she said he would be receiving gamma, if only for the reason he would be closer to the winner of the latter contests than anyone else, but it lasted only a moment. He was content to be gamma, he knew he was well suited to the rank and he was happy with that, Rhia had truly seen his strengths and placed him well and for that he could continue to respect her as an alpha worthy of her position. When she stated that they would be of basically the same power level but have different jobs Ahote smiled again. However Rhia would like to say there would be a difference and Ahote was not so power hungry that he could not show the proper amount of respect to both Gypsy and Dagyr. Rhia had chosen to eliminate any animosity that could have arisen during the fight to instead have them work together for the betterment of the pack. He decided now would be a good time to speak his gratitude. “Thank you for this Rhiannon. Your words are eloquent and well taken at least by me. I am content to take the role of gamma and do anything I can to help this pack thrive.” His eyes turned to Dagyr and he genuinely smiled, “I look forward to working with Dagyr and Gypsy.” As he finished he saw the appearance of another female, this time with wings appear and begin speaking to Rhia, and he smiled at the female, but not moving to introduce himself or interrupt her, obviously she was here for the next set of battles and he knew most of them were in deep concentration of how to win the battle. Before he could get his thoughts straight he noticed the mysterious Gypsy seemingly appear beside Rhia and his eyes turned completely on her. The look he gave her was one of interest and he had backed away from the general fighting arena to take a place beside Gypsy, though not so close. He figured Dagyr would want to be sitting on Rhia’s other side since he was Beta now, and whomever received gamma female would sit beside him. He said nothing to the very lithe female beside him, but he was happy to be there and continued to watch the skies above them until..the very bane of his existence made their way up the cliff. The poor little red lyxxus truly wanted to be a pain in his side but he simply did not feel the need to give her the time of day. When she appeared with her snaky comments about how he didn’t earn his rank or her pathetic show of dominance by keeping her tail as high as she could he simply smirked, un-phased by the ignorant, ill-mannered cur who had no more sense in her head than rocks. He was much more interested in the female beside him, but he chose to simply stay seated and watch the events unfold before his eyes. They would be interesting indeed..

[dagyr]

[atrb=border,0,true][atrb=cellSpacing,0,true][atrb=cellPadding,0,true][atrb=width,422,true]

[atrb=background,http://i1203.photobucket.com/albums/bb390/Bluewillowtree/Dagyrmid.jpg] Dagyr smiled softly at Rhia as they waited for Ahote. Her words reflected his own feelings. The day would be eventful no matter who won or lost. It had been a while since he had watched a couple of rounds of battles, or even been pitted agianst a truly worthy opponent. He had not talked to Ahote too much, but he could tell he would be worth the energy he put into training, just being a Yagi was enough for that. Just as Dagyr began to think of his opponent, Ahote appeared over the crest. Dagyr admired his fello yagi's stride and form. It was obvious that Ahote had been busy keeping himself trim as well. Dagyr looked back at Ahote as Ahote looked at him and understood that there would be no words passed between them just yet. Possibly after the battle, but as of the moment they both needed to be calm and collected. Dagyr looked out over the platea, his ears pricked to listen to Ahote's words. The day truly was beautiful. He couldn't help but smile at the thought of a thunderstorm. The cracking of two yagi's horns colliding co-mingling with the crack of thunder and the spark of lightning. Dagyr watched Rhia as che circled them, looking them over. He looked to Ahote and smiled. They were close in strength, though Ahote had a bit of an advantage when it came to horns, but Dagyr could make it through that. His ears pricked as she began o speak about the two. They weren't fighting? Dagyr looked puzzled and turned his attention to his alphess. His heart began to sink as she spoke first to Ahote, only to soar with pride upon teh realisation that He, Dagyr, was obtaining the beta position. Thank you Rhiannon, I hope to do my best and prove your decision was the right one... He looked to ahote, not quite sure what to say. Congratulating him on his new positon would be seen as an insult, and that was the last thing Dagyr wanted to do. I also see you as an equal Ahote. I am glad I am able to work with such a good wolf at my side. Dagyr bowed slightly in respect of the other yagi. Dagyr took up position beside Rhiannon and turned just intime to see one of the next contestants appear. A myou this one... Dagyr had yet to meet this myou in person, but had heard she was a good wolf. Nothing compared to a Yagi, he was sure, but good enough. He nooded his head slightly towards her before noticing his new partner in crime Gypsy appear. Dagyur listened quietly as Gypsy spoke to Rhiannon, approving mentally of the new contact. The pack needed allies, and the Mafia was one of the best to choose strong, determined and sly one needed to know how to handle them. But if handled correctly a great ally. His attention shifted to a red lyxxus as she crested the hill. He found her curious, as he found most lyxxus, but as she started to speak he couldn't help but feel his hackles rise slightly. The indirect insult towards Rhiannon, Ahote and himself angered him in a cold way, but he held it back, his face remaining impassive. He didn't need to respond to such things. Dagyr kept himself alert and watched the action. If he was needed he would act, but he knew for now he was only needed to stay as a symbol of what could be achieved and of the strength of the pack.

[RHIANNON !]

[atrb=border,0,true][atrb=cellSpacing,0,true][atrb=cellPadding,0,true][atrb=width,300,true]

[atrb=background,http://i1185.photobucket.com/albums/z341/awaywithmysanity/RHIATABLE2.png] Rhiannon waited as more wolves filtered in. Sandra had joined them, and Rhiannon knew the little myou was challenging for gamma. She would be the last wolf to underestimate her for her size. She looked quite composed, not all squealy like she had been on their first meeting. Rhiannon offered her a dignified smile, nodding her head. "Yes it is, couldn't have hoped for better. The beta challenge just ended. Dagyr is our new beta male and Ahote our gamma," she replied, only turning her head as Gypsy approached. Rhia offered her a smile and a nod, watching as she moved towards her. The alpha knew better than to interupt the sennyo for fear of missing her wise words, and so her ears were cupped towards her, waiting and listening for what she had to say. A contact in the mafia? She had heard little about the pack, but she knew of their dark ways. Even still she would rather have them on her side than against her. She nodded again, "Gypsy that sounds wonderful. We'll have to explore that later," she replied, nodding as she sat down. Next to arrive was the little fireball lyxxus, Lyta, and Rhiannon watched her less than submissive pose and narrowed her eyes slightly. She said nothing, merely watching her though, but she did growl at her question. "Ahote and Dagyr have earned their ranks by becoming my friends and I have placed my trust in them," she growled more, her tail twitching in mild irritation. It didn't seem to be lost on the others, and even Sandralina spoke to it. They seemed to be ready though, and yet they were missing one. "Lyra should be here..." she spoke, glancing around; she had already called all the wolves, and she didn't feel like repeating herself. It was while she waited that a very unexpected thing happened. Suddenly the sky was covered in black, and a large black and brown feathered creature swooped down from the sky. Rhiannon snarled, her body leaping upwards, her body moving towards it. The griffin was far too fast though and the red lyxxus was already snatched up in its talons. Rhiannon lunged at the bird but only got air as it swiftly took off. It was obvious the lyxxus was not hurt, just stunned. The griffin veered, turning towards the south and disappearing onto the horizon. Rhiannon blinked, her jaws clamped shut. Lyta had just been scooped up by the griffin and taken away. She was still processing the information when she turned towards the other wolves, staring at them with wide hazel eyes. "Well... that was... unexpected..." she was still a little bit shaken up, glancing across the horizon. "I am sorry you all had to witness that. I hope for her sake her death is swift and painless," she said with a nod, not knowing what else to say. She had saved Lyta from griffins before but apparently she would succumb to them now. "I suppose Lyra is not coming. Last I heard she had injured herself. So, Sandra, unfortunately by default, that leaves you with the position of gamma. I am sure you are worthy of holding it alongside Ahote." She shifted and went to sit back in her little spot. "And now let the epsilon battle begin..." she threw her head back as she said it, calling for the rest of the epsilons to arrive.

[|-Sandralina-|]

[atrb=border,0,true][atrb=cellSpacing,0,true][atrb=cellPadding,0,true][atrb=width,422,true]

[atrb=background,http://i1203.photobucket.com/albums/bb390/Bluewillowtree/Sandramid.jpg] Sandralina's ebony colored talons dug into the ground, eager to fight the fiery little lyxxus. She kept herself composed, however, just for the sake of being level headed. The last thing she wanted to do was blow her chances of winning. Only the level headed and calm were suited for higher ranks such as the one they were about to fight for. It honestly didn't matter who was the stronger wolf sometimes, it usually depended on who was the most strategic and calm in battle. At least, that was how she had heard of such things. She gave her dark colored wings a light flare, almost in warning to Lyta and in agreement with her Alphess. If the two males had earned their ranks by earning the trust of their leader, then so be it. That was just the way things had worked out. When Rhiannon muttered of Lyra, the barn swallow Myou gave a glance around the area. She could not see the female Yagi anywhere and was slightly disappointed if that meant she would need to be disqualified. She had wanted to fight against her as well, never having really gotten in a spar with a horned wolf. It would have been an interesting match if she had decided to show up. She seriously wished she had. What occurred next was certainly something the seven year old female had not expected. She immediately recognized the scent of a griffin once it was close enough and her fur puffed out in all direction, the feathers of her tail and wings. Her lip curled as she watched Rhiannon leap after it. She gave a jump and several furious flaps of her wings, releasing a snarl like squawk from her throat. However, the griffin was much too fast for their reaction time. Even though she had seen and smelled it coming, nothing could be done. It was within those minutes that Lyta was scooped off and taken away. Sandra's amber eyes blazed with fury as she wanted to go after the griffin, but shock glued her to the ground. Rhiannon turned to them with wide eyes, speaking slowly at first, then saying of how she hoped the death would be swift and painless. Sandralina hoped so, too. As much as the little lyxxus could irk quite a few wolves, no one deserved to be eaten by a griffin. Lyta had been a hot headed wolf to begin with, yes, but deep down even Sandra knew that there was good inside of her. It did not matter to her how arrogant or evil a wolf was, there was always some type of good inside of them. She used her brother as an example. Her brother had been a truly mean and evil wolf, but he loved Sandralina and had never harmed her. He refused to. Sandralina was fully aware of Rhiannon saying she had earned the gamma position by default and that she was sure the larger myou was worthy of the position. However, she became numb after that, standing there a moment or two in shock. She finally forced herself to move over to the Yagi she had a feeling was Ahote and sat beside him, tucking her wings in by her sides. "I won't fail you, Rhiannon..." Her voice was sad, but she poised herself carefully, sitting upright and trying to appear as if the incident didn't affect her. On the inside, she wanted to cry, she wanted to go after the griffin. She stayed put, knowing there was nothing she could do, and simply allow Estoni to comfort her with her soft cooing and kind words. It was time for the epsilon battle.

[RHIANNON !]

Hold until epsilons post.