Street Wolf walked into the single room building that the Council of Dens took for their use. One door in, one door out, and several windows. The 8 elders sat on large pillows on the floor around the wall. Street just grinned on the inside. He knew why they did that. Made each elder feel safer with a solid wall behind their backs, and with no furniture in the middle, put the petitioner in the center of focus causing the petitioner to on guard at all times about what they said or asked.

Street walked right into the open floor space in the center. He was at ease. He had face wars countless times and the elders did not make him fearful. He welcomed them.

"The Council recognizes Street of Wolf. Honored and decorated Bliidaa of several wars. How may we help you Street?" Coonaa asked with a heavy sounding voice.

Street bowed low to everyone, starting clockwise with Coonaa, the respected elder for their Den's voice on the council and ending with Dala, who sat next to Coonaa.

"I have come to ask a favor or assistance. I wish to start a restaurant, or public place of eating for the Den. Being only 90 in life, my former trails of Bliidaa are fading from my eyes. I no longer wish a honorable path of endless glory. I wish to take a mate again, and to turn to a path more constructive for the Den. I ask for assistance in obtaining funds and a building for the restaurant." He remained bowed as he asked.

Several of the council looked at each other as they considered the request.

"One of your Bliddaa status should feel no shame for retiring your chosen path. However, taking on another mate after the death of your previous one is still clouded in mist and myth." Spoke Ferrousbane.

"Funds for a restaurant, should be of no trouble to obtain for you Street. It would benefit our people to have a place to come in public harmony to enjoy food and community spirit. It may also bring in others from the outlying cities, Rhydin being one of them. We really need to encourage foreign visitors. Our people have been reduced in numbers so much that we can not stay to a pure idea of race." Issiir's voice flowed through the room, cool and healing as she spoke.

Street remained bowed as he listened to the council. He was a bit concerned about Ferrousbanes' concern about his past history. Surely they couldn't hold the judgement of a tyrannical period of history as still valid.

"There are several unused buildings, finished, yet sealed after the massive building effort we made when given this land." Dala noted. He looked to Ferrousbane. "What is the grounds for bringing Bliidaa Street's history for judgement on mating?"

"Merely a means to call to the fore what he committed during that time and what was done. I simply offer that we ensure that Bliidaa Street's record of the rebellions lead against my Den brethren be removed as the leadership was tainted. Also, to bring to the fore that his mate and daughter, I believe receive just memorials to remind those of the error's our kind has been involved in." Ferrousbane replied to Dala.

That had the council murmuring and discussing for several minutes. Street stood as it was apparent he need not be too formal. He was a bit taken aback by the proposal of Ferrousbane. He stood waiting an outcome.

After several more minutes passed the council settled down again.

"Bliidaa Street, the Council of Dens has heard your petition and this is our ruling. We will grant you the right to open your restaurant. In doing so, as you have mentioned, funds, and facilities must be provided. This will be taken care of by an award from a judgement not primary to your petition. We have decided to honor Ferrousbane's offer. We hereby set forth that your actions in the War of the Dens was in good sense, and not acts of rebellion or resistance. You're wife Topaz, and your daughter Nicole, are hereby honorary Bliidaa Soultre (Blood Hero Souls). The Steel Den is offering you 1,000 gold pieces as compensation for you loss, as well as any of the buildings that are not in use to be yours. They will also offer support in help and any other needs you have. Do you accept the offer Bliidaa Street?" Argile's voice resonated within the walls.

Street couldn't believe his ears. He was just handed the means for a new life, and he had his honor restored.

"I accept the offer."

"The petition is complete then. Ferrousbane will furnish the awards when you are ready. The Council of Dens thank you for coming to us Street. Let us take a break. May Lupis and Canis be with you Street of Wolf." Balsa spoke ending the session.

Street grinned from ear to ear and walked out of the Council. He was beyond happy, he was ecstatic.

Lene stepped into the council room, resting most of her waning weight on a walking cane. Mogriil stopped at the door and turned, barring entry to anyone else outside, even the councils own guard. The guards didn't press seeing the yellow eyes glint with a hint of death to those who tried to move him.

Elders sat in circle as usual, though 3 members were missing. Dala Graydol, Coonaa Wolf, and Tiiraa of Spiritor, had all perished during the attack from Takhesis. Due to this loss, the council had not convened in some time as they had no way of replacing the loss. No one knew if they could trust any of the new refugees. The five remaining elders regarded Lene.

"What brings you here dear child. You are ill and should be resting." Spoke Issiir Foxingale.

Lene stopped and slowly knelt and bowed to the elders, showing the age old symbol of submission to those wiser than you.

"Yes, I am ill. I will not lie about that. But my illness is not what has brought me here. The state of the Den is what has brought me here. I have heard murmurs and growling in the tents of the refugees of late concerning the rebuilding of the Den. They seem to be distrustful of the support Ambassador Kos has been providing. I come today to ask the council to do a public decree that the assistance we are receiving is meant as aide and not suppression."

"And who was the one who accepted the aide from Ambassador Kos? The council was not made part of this assistance, Myrlene Wolf-Spiritor." Ferrousbane Steel spoke up.

Lene bowed to Ferrousbane. "I will not deny that. Ambassador Kos did speak with me and asked for permission to help. I accepted the help under the terms of speaking with the council first. The council has not been held since the attack, and our people, till recently have been unified in rebuilding. If you will not believe me, I present my body as witness. I raised all 10 facilities in the north and south sector that is currently housing refugees, and the aide that Ambassador Kos has sent. I have paid dearly to mend a home I care about. I believed I had the right to accept aide on behalf of the Den as leadership was indisposed. Also note, Street Wolf, Fen Stridar, and Fleetian Wolf, have signed their marks on the slips of authorization when aide came. No one stopped them or protested. I apologize that the council was not alerted till now, but we need unity again. Our Den is still in repairs, and I can sense civil war brewing."

The five elders were stone rigid listening to Lene. Some of her words smacked of insolence from such a minor alpha, but Issiir was the first to soften when the call to note Lene's body as witness. Issiir knew what had happened to the girl. The powerful magic wrought to rebuild what was gone. She leaned in close, inclining her head for the other four to come closer for private council.

Lene stayed where she was bowing, head held low as she waited for them to finish their private discussion. Minutes rolled by and soon the Elders finished.

Argile Shieldar spoke. "You speak no lies, Myrlene of Wolf-Spiritor. We have seen your body, and the efforts you took upon yourself to mend the Den while we were all in dismay. You have proven quite well, that though you accepted the offer from Ambassador Kos for aide, other Alphrans, that were your Mentroa's accepted the responsibility of letting the aide in. We will certainly make a decree for all in the Den that the aide is to be completely accepted, and that Lupe's and outsiders work together. We are in a different land, as we must keep reiterating with some, and that unity and cooperation is needed. We do not need another Bliidaa Coovaa turning the streets red. One is enough in our history."

Lene remained bowed and her voice was getting weaker as she was getting tired. "Thank you Elders for hearing my request. I must take leave and rest, I grow weaker."

Lene attempted to rise and couldn't. Her body was too tired to respond. Mogriil was by her in an instant helping her stand. Before they could turn, Issiir held up her paw to stop them.

"Before you go...Lene, I believe is the nickname they give you. I would like you to come to me child." She held out her furred arms to Lene.

Lene walked over slowly, Mog never straying from her. Issiir gave Lene a comforting hug.

"Young child, you have suffered more than any here on the council has suffered. You have shown the virtues of both your father, Fleetian, and your departed mother, Ammy. I wish to give you a token, and a reward for maturing so much." Issiir spoke softly.

Issiirs muzzle came down and kissed the fur of Lene's chest above her right breast. A kiss mark appeared in Lene's fur, icy white with wings bracing the lip marks.

"In Lupinoss, the mark of Foxingale is given to those noble and worthy of her blessings. You have earned it Lene, for all you have done. May you wear it honorably." Issiir then pulled a small box from beside her lounge pillow and opened it. Inside were gold ear rings. 3 of them, and a Platinum ear ring as well.

"Hold still as I place these ear rings in your right ear Lene. It won't hurt." Issiir's paws touched Lene's right ear and began inserting the ear rings. No pain was felt as Issiir was an elder healer and her magic made the holes appear painlessly and without blood.

"There now. It is of the councils deepest pride and honor to mark you Lene, as a member of council and to give you the honorary title of Elder. When you are healed and well, we will be honored to have you fill Coonaas and Tiiraa's position of council. Wolf and Spiritor blood lines have been merged with you, and you show the wisdom of both. Now go, rest child, and may your wise Doctor Maranya Valkonen mend you well." Issiir spoke and the other four elders nodded in approval of the actions.

Lene just bowed her head and tears fell from her. "Thank you for having faith in one who has lost much trust. I shall come for training when I am better." Lene spoke weakly.

Mogriil picked her up in his strong arms. "My apologies, if these actions seem ill treatment for an Elder Council member, but she is frail."

Argile Shieldar spoke slowly. "Your actions are not defaming or ridiculing. You, Mogriil, are her entrusted guard and watcher. The council charges you to keep her safe for the duration of her life, or yours. You will be cleared of all normal duties. Your sole job is to Myrlene's care now."

Mogriil bowed his steel helm. "As the council wishes, so shall this outcast try to fill the role of one who should be of better position."

Elders looked a little stunned at Mogriil's statement. Mogriil didn't decide to wait for further reactions. He turned and walked out the door almost kicking one of the guards out of the way.

Fleetian was amidst the elders of the Council of Dens once again. It was time for a report. The elders sat with patience to hear his report. News and fliers had filtered into the Den as Lupes went to market or to trade with the other merchants of the city. Several Lupe children were witness to several riots as well and refuse to come out of hiding behind their parents.

Fleet held is paws clasped behind him. Part of his fur on the back of his head as well as some of his hair was shaved. Gauze was held in place with tape, covering the 6 inch gash in his head. He had received the wound from an interview though he doesn't blame the reporters as he never saw he threw the rock. He cleared his throat.

"Elders, I have come to give my report on the matters of Proposition 37 and the reaction the people of Rhydin are having."

The elders nodded to Fleet and waited for him to continue. Fleet took in a long breath.

"The effects have been varied and deep, running through all in the town. Few live in Rhydin who are not talking about this proposition. I have seen children cower in fear of going outside, families staying inside, and I have seen hostility rise in both factions. Mundanes attacking magic users because they fear or do not understand the other, or they are riled by people with some goal to be obtained. The magic users fair no better. Acts of superiority have arisen as well as self defense. This issue has put a rift in Rhydin."

"Then the issue has gotten worse and Rhydin is no longer safe by what you say Fleetian Paladium." Ferrousbane spoke.

"Not necessarily. The issue may resolve itself yet. Many key mundanes as well as magic users are rallying to put the issue to rest."

"But that will prove nothing Fleetian. Our own people tried to put the issue of magic users lording over the mundanes aside. You know what happened. Thousands were killed. Your own father and your own Great Den were decimated. You stand as one of 2 survivors of that fallen Den. From what we have read, seen, and heard, Rhydin is in the same situation. Bloodshed is happening. Once blood flows, damming it is a force to reckon with." Iissiir cut in.

"True, but they are not our people. Rhydin is a large mix of many races. Unified animosity can not possibly continue." Fleet offered.

"Yet you have been assaulted for just speaking to people. You never fired magic or acted hostile and you were still attacked. You can not possibly see any justice in aiding or having compassion for those people? Can you?" Sliinkaa asked with disbelief in her voice.

"Mundanes overact sometimes. So do magic users. The city is not a loss." Fleet countered.

"And you wish to turn a blind eye to your wife being shot at as well? She is just now walking around revived and someone wished to kill her?" Balsa spoke gruffly.

"That attack may not be related. Ammy has a lot of old enemies that would love to have a chance to put her back in the Between again. I speak for these people as I have been there to help their wounded, to treat the sick, to heal those who need to be healed. I am a healer, not a violent warmonger." Fleet pleaded.

"So we are warmongers because we care about the safety of our people now? Fleetian, your duty is to us. Never forget that, and right now duty demands that you see the danger our Den is in from this issue." Argile growled.

Guards poked their heads in at the growling noises. Fleetian waved them away. He fixed each elder with his blue eyes. Eyes that were starting to spark with energy.

"My duty is to heal people. You removed me from council on my own request. You have removed my family as well though my daughter is now being groomed to take the seat of 2 Great Dens. A first I must say, but to say my duty is to you and to change my council to a path of action against people I have worked with, love, and would die for. You are extremely mistaken." Fleetian spoke, a silent growl in his voice.

"This council has the wisdom of centuries at it's disposal. Tread carefully on the act of treating us like pups Fleetian. Those people are a threat to everything. They kill each other over the notion of requiring mages to have papers, over the difference of one who can cast and one who can not. We do not live far away. It is an issue we can not ignore. Violence has increased. Our merchants, families, and children are not safe going to Rhydin, or witnessing the violence. I move for a cease to all relations with Rhydin and view them as hostile. I vote we move on Rhydin!" Ferrousbane snarled.

The other elders looked to each other in concern. Iissiir motioned for Ferrousbane to sit down. She scratched her chin, smoothed her hair and took a breath.

"Everyone stand down. We are not condoning an act of war Ferrousban of Den Steel. Our Den would never survive. Attacking would only garner hate from both mundanes and the magical. Yet, I agree. We cannot allow our youth to witness such violent acts in Rhydin. I vote for cutting all relations with Rhydin as well until they can prove that they are not violent barbarians. I will also vote though, that any who wish to seek asylum from the violence may do so. We will try to help who comes to our gate, but the first act of violence to reach our gates will be met with violence in kind. We will not maim, we will not injure, we will kill and put the seed of violence in the offenders out for all eternity."

The elders murmured and nodded with each other. Votes for Iissiirs proposal echoed in the hall. Fleetian felt his heart plummet. He shook his head slowly at the new. Scribbling was heard as he looked to the floor followed by parchment being rolled up and sealed.

Iissiir held out a roll Fleetian. "Fleetian, you will deliver this to the governor of Rhydin as well as post flyers of our offer of aid for those needing shelter. Post as well about the dangers of crossing our small, but deadly nation. You are dismissed."

Fleetian took the roll and bowed low to the elders. "You know not what you do elders. You have brought violence in with this. I will do as you command this once, but consider from this point on that I may just pull out of the Den and leave you to your own demise, and I will take my followers." Fleet's voice left visible, tangible ice on the walls. He turned and left the council hall.

It was confirmed. The Den was taking a side. It's own. One more display of violence and stupidity.

The Council of Dens had been quiet for some time since the proposal and failed passing of the Magic Users Registration Act in Rhydin. The words of Fen Stridar still echoed in the one room building. Feeling shame for their actions, the Den Councilors returned to their homes and thought nothing more of helping to rule the Lupinosse Den.

However, the rustling of rumors on the wind of the Heroine of Lupinoss, Ammy Spiritor, and her miraculous revival was not a miracle, but the breaking of the laws of magic use. Most of the Council would not believe this, but a few were curious to dig further into the matter.

Not only was the resurrection of Ammy Spiritor against the laws of magic, and nature, but their Den Alpha Fleetwolf, Deity of their race, the perpetrator of the heinous act. The Council was prepared to turn a blind eye as these were the Heroes of the Lupinosse Den. Saints to all living Lupinossai. But no one could refute reports of seeing Ammy Spiritor in a new form, one of demon energy and aura.

The Lupinosse Den was always a place of harboring refugees and those in need, but demons were not tolerated, heroine or not. Thus, the Council of Dens gathered one hot June day. They were short one member, Myrlene Wolf-Spiritor, Councilor for both Dens Wolf and Spiritor. Myrlene was reported banished by her father, Fleetwolf for attempting to take the life of Ammy Spiritor her mother in the name of removing a vile creation on this world.

Short of one member, yet determined, the Council of Dens pressed on with their task. They discussed the events at hand and came to agreement. Fleetwolf, Lupinosse Den Alpha, and Ammy Spiritor, Heroine of the Lupinosse Den were to be exiled from the Den, to never return, and their soul gems refused upon death to be placed in the Soul Garden. Myrlene Wolf-Spiritor was to be sought out, exalted to being a member of the Lupinosse Den once more and to resume her duties as Councilor for Den Wolf and Den Spiritor.

With the passing of these judgments, the Council of Dens realized they no had no ruling Alpha. The last time this happened, a civil war for control happened. It was brought to their attention that Vuusoolta Wolf, proven heir of Fleetwolf, was among their numbers. Vuusoolta Wolf was quickly found, made aware of the situation at hand, and within a week appointed Lupinosse Den Alpha.

The following day seemed to fit Lene?s mood. She couldn?t see the dark grey clouds that hung over head, but she did feel the rain that pelted down on the Den. Perfect weather for continuing what may be termed a long argument with the elders. Never the less, Lene trudged into the council hall.

She was soon on the Speakers Dias, waiting patiently for the Elders to speak. They had been whispering amongst themselves. Lene could feel the energy of fear and the pungent tang of suspicion. What was going on today?

?May I ask the Counsel of Dens as to what the delay is in starting?? Lene?s voice asked in a slightly annoyed tone.

The murmuring ceased and she heard shuffling as the Elders shifted on their sitting pillows. Lene tilted her head in puzzlement though. She only heard five elders shift, and those that she heard were light weight. The only heavy counselor was Ferrousbane of Steel. She thought he would be the one wanting to be here to rub her nose more in her mother?s demon taint.

Issiir of Foxingale posed a question. ?Counselor Myrlene, where were you last night??

Lene thought about that. ?I was in the Red Dragon Inn with friends seeking advice.?

?And after that?? Issiir asked with a tone of suspicion.

?I was asleep so I could be rested for today?s session.? Lene answered with a slight bit of wonder.

Argile of Shieldar spoke next. ?Our watchers did not see you return to either of the houses you reside in. The saw you exit the city. Tell me counselor what is your opinion of Counselor Ferrousbane??

That question made Lene hesitate before answering. ?Was the physical evidence of my dislike of Counselor Ferrousbane?s comments toward my mother not clear? I hold a mild dislike of him, but it is not my place to speak ill of an elder.?

?Would you dislike the counselor enough to perform an unsanctioned blood duel?? Counselor Argile?s voice was sharp.

Lene took a step back hearing that. ?No, Counselor Argile, I have no need to prove myself. Counselor Ferrousbane?s remarks I deemed as an ill plant sprouting from seeds of prejudice. Why is the Counsel asking these questions??

Balsa of Stridar spoke in a tone of ridicule. ?Isn?t it obvious Counselor Myrlene? You are facing accusations of killing Counselor Ferrousbane of Den Steel.?

?Counselor Ferrousbane is dead? How?? Lene asked in concern. This was bizarre.

Sliinkaa of Sprintar spoke next. ?Do you not own a sword of light??

?Yes.? Lene answered. Was the Counselor struck down with a light saber?

?Where is your sword of light?? Sliinkaa asked.

Lene reached her waist where she usually kept her saber and removed it. She held it up for the Counsel to see. The muttered amongst themselves again.

?Can you sword of light become a whip as well?? asked Issiir of Foxingale.

Lene was starting to feel that she was being trapped. ?Yes. If you think I slew him, I did not. I was not at either home for I was with my suitor, Moonshine. He is a dragon that lives within the Lair of Icer Shimmerscale.?

The Counsel murmured more, with a few sharp words about polluting Lupinossai blood lines with dragon blood. Lene dropped her paw still clutching the light saber to her side. The murmuring stopped.

Argile of Shieldar spoke again. ?Counselor Ferrousbane was found in a dueling ring, below the Red Dragon Inn. A usual foraging ground for you and your mother. The Counselor was found with a clean wound, cauterized from the chest to his back. His heart was gone. No weaponry that Lupinossai touch would do that. His fur, robes, and hide were also scorched in long whip like cuts. Seeing as only you have been reported actively using a sword of light and have a rank in the cities dueling community we find you guilty of the death of Counselor Ferrousbane. We will not mention the disrespectful act of being with a dragon for purposes of breeding.?

?You have the wrong Lupinossai, Counselor. Many abound in the city that wields swords of light. Any of them could have slain the Counselor. As for my choice of a mate, might I remind you of my Soul Guardian?s choice of marrying a human mate. It was blessed by the den elders.? Lene said in a flat tone.

Issiir of Foxingale spoke again. ?That mating was blessed by the previous Den Alpha. The current Alpha, your Step Brother deems that our small nation needs to grow stronger and mating outside our species is prohibited for all new mating pairs. As to the possibility of many sword of light wielders, we know it was you.?

Issiir tossed something at Lene in disgust. Lene?s empty paw rose to catch the hurtling object she heard. She about gasped when she felt it. No wonder they blamed her. In her paw was the missing twin of her saber. It was taken by a Sith Assassin.

?This sword of light has not been in my possession for a long time Counselor Issiir. Someone else is at fault.? Lene?s voice sounded a little weak.

Argile stood with ears held forward in a reflex of dominance. ?Regardless. Those weapons are dangerous and not to be touched by our kind. We are arresting you for the murder of Counselor Ferrousbane of Den Steel. You are to be escorted by a guard while you may seek this other person. You have two weeks. If you do not find the killer, you will suffer the punishment, death. Your family will perish as well for the act of murder. ?

?What?! I am not the murderer!? Lene exclaimed.

Balsa of Stridar spoke in commanding tones. ?Guards! Strip Counselor Myrlene of her weaponry. Place the Soli Collar about her neck. One of you will be with her at all times. She tries to do anything suspicious, you may kill her.?

Lene heard the guards rushing for her. She was innocent. Lene dropped the light sabers to the Speakers Dias. Paws grabbed her roughly. The guards brought her to her knees. She felt something radiating cold above her head. It was the Soli Collar. An artifact used to bind and rob any magic user of their power. Lene quickly tapped the Force in a bid for help. *Moonshine! I need help!* Icey tendrils sunk into her neck as the collar was secured around it. She felt everything leave her, including the Force.

?You best make haste, Myrlene. The sands of your life are starting to count down now. Remove her from the Counsel Hall until she has proof or until her time has expired.? Issiir of Foxingale said in a cold tone.

The guards dragged her out of the Hall.

The draconian, still marked as Hlask, comes through the streets of the Den, making a B-line straight for his Bromissk's home.

Vuu was standing outside of his house dealing with a group of Lupinossai who seemed either panicked, or outraged.

Verbosk comes up to the homestead and sees the group of Lupinossai outside. He hangs back a moment, waiting to see if Vuu has it under control.

The crowd clammer with questions about who is killing other lupinossai, is it safe to be outside, what is the Den Alpha going to do about the killings. Vuu raised a paw for silence. The crowd quieted. "I understand you're worries. I have been working with both the Den Watch, and a member of the Rhydin Watch. We are getting closer to the murderer. For now, keep public travel at night to a minimum and things will be okay."

Vuusoolta Wolf: The crowd all started to murmur. "Den was safer with Fleetian around. Even if he was a rule breaker we didn't have murderers killing elders. The counsel is completely ineffective." The slowly broke up and left.

Verbosk comes up to his Bromissk and bows at the waist.

Vuu gave a slight nod. "Evening Verbosk."

"Good evening, Bromissk."

"What was that all about?" He gestures his hand behind him, talking about the crowd that had just broken up.

Vuu eyed a few of the lupinossai watching them. "Just the local populace voicing very real concern about their safety with a murderer loose."

"Ah yes. That's actually what I wanted to talk to you about."

"Do you have more news?" he asked with a slight hint of interest.

He looks behind him at the casual observers before focusing back on the Alpha. "I have confirmed Lene's alibi, first of all. She's innocent. We think we might know who the killer is, but I need your help."

"I see. What would you like me to do?"

"First of all, I need you to lead me to Mogril's house. And then, I need your assistance with his interrogation."

"You have enough evidence to convict him?"

The watchman shakes his long, draconian head. "Not yet, but we are considering him a suspect."

"So your interogation is to gain more evidence, yes?"

"We have been led to believe that he might have planted Lene's lightsaber on Counselor Ferrousbane's body."

"I see. Well, giving that he was her bodyguard and lover for some time, best get him out of the way first."

"Yes. Will you lead the way, Bromissk?"

"Certainly Verbosk. Tell me, out of curiosity, do you have means for detaining a witness if they should become aggressive?"

Vuu lead Verbosk down the lit streets for a smaller section of the Den.

He grins, then pulls on his simple belt as they walk. "Works every time, Bromissk."

"You're belt or your intimidation?"

"Both." He chuckles.

*This will be very amusing.* Vuu thought. He lead Verbosk on till they came to a small hut. Vuu knocked on the door with his paw. "Den Alpha. Please welcome entry."

Mogriil glanced up from a few parchments. Vuusoolta at this hour? This was not arranged. He quickly grabbed the scrolls and hid them in the eaves of his hut. Then he walked for the door softly. He opened the door. "Evening Den Alpha and..." a look to Verbosk. "Guest."

"Verbosk, sir. Are you Mogril?"

"Yes. What of it?"

Vuu simply stood quietly and watched Verbosk do his job.

"I would like to ask you a couple of questions, if you have the time."

"Of course." Mogriil spoke but made no move to let either of them inside.

"May we come in?"

Not wanting to risk being suspicious, Mogriil turned and opened the door. "Step inside."

"Thank you." The watchman crosses the threshold.

Vuu followed inside, ice blue eyes locking with the yellow gaze of Mogriil. He slightly raised his furred brows.

"Can I have some tea or water, Mogril? I'm parched."

"Of course. It is not a problem. What do you wish to ask?" he didn't relay a thing from seeing Vuu's glance. He prepared some green tea.

Verbosk turned and whispered to his Bromissk. "Vuu, keep an eye on his thoughts. I don't want him lying on me."

Vuu took a seat on the floor, settling on his knees. "I want to ask you a couple of questions about the murders of the counselors."

Vuu took a seat on the pillow. He simply nodded to Verbosk.

"What about the murders? A bunch of old politicians died. Nothing new." Mogriil responded.

"Well, yes. But, this is two in the past two weeks. This doesn't smell like a typical political rivalry. And, of course, a third was framed for the first murder. Somebody is after the Council. Perhaps a coup or some rebel group. Do you happen to know anything about that?"

"How would you know sir? Killing a rival who has a better position to you is nothing new. Civil wars have started over it." hearing the last part Mogriil simply grimaced with his back turned to Verbosk and Vuusoolta. "Why would I know about a coup or rebel group? What ties me to all of this?"

"Well, I have been led to believe that you came in possession of Lene's lost lightsaber. Do you happen to have it accounted for?"

"How would I be in possession of something she lost to a Sith Assassin?"

He raises his hands defensively. "Simply the impression I received. So you have never seen it?"

"I have seen Lene use it before. But as to physically having it, no."

"Hm. I see." He looks at Vuu for confirmation.

"He speaks the truth. He didn't have the weapon."

The watchman nods "Mogril, what do you think of the Council?"

The tea finished he brought over three cups. "The Council? I believe they are old and stuffy." he sat the cups in front of Vuusoolta and Verbosk.

Verbosk took his cup and had a sip.

"You don't agree with their policies, then?"

"Who would in this Den. Rule under one leader is how things have always been. Now, it takes too long for issues to be resolved."

"What do you think of Lene being in the Council?"

The mention of her name got the slightest twitch of his ears. "A mistake."

"A mistake? Why?"

"She's too young for such a position as well as too young to be put in danger."

"Hm." He rubs a talon on his chin. "You said earlier that rule under one leader is how things have always been. If something were to happen to the Council, who do you think should take over?"

"The way the laws have been made is that the Den Alpha has control until a new Counsel is elected. As to my choice, I would choose my father, Street Wolf as the ruler." his yellow eyes glinted as if in rebellion to Vuu in silence.

"Street Wolf?" He glances at Vuu questioningly.

Vuu pushed a slight spike of anger under his calm ocean of peace. "Street Wolf is Mogriils blood father. Mogriil is considered a bastard since his father never mated his blood mother properly." he let his ice blue eyes spark right back to Mogril. *Do not mess with me.*

"Ah. I see." He finishes the green tea. "You mind if I look around, Mogril?"

"Yes. Street is my father. I may be a bastard, but at least he is a proven warrior." Mogriil glanced to Verbosk. "If you wish."

The draconian rises. "Thank you." He begins to looks around, his tongue flicking out almost constantly

"Come now Mogriil. No need for anger. Your father was indeed a noble if exiled warrior. Dealing with being a bastard and having two parents marked as exile must be upsetting?" he asked in a soft voice.

The Hlask pokes around in the eaves and shelves, looking for anything of interest.

Mogriil snorted in disgust at Vuusoolta while watching Verbosk a bit too closely.

The draconian had no interest in birth certificates, though he did find a picture of Mogril and Lene together. He blinks at it a moment, then replaces it

"Mogriil, I am your Den Alpah. Behave."

"Sitting all high and mighty like you rule us? You only got your position because your own father got exiled." Mogriil shot that barb out.

The draconian pulls out several sheets of papers, and he furrows his brow. They look different. He holds them in his talons as he comes back to the pair of Lupinossai. "Mogril, what is this?"

"Shopping list of items for my fathers restaraunt." Mogriil replied.

"Bromissk, could you translate this, please?" He offers the papers to the Den Alpha.

"Yes." Vuu took the papers and read them allowed. "Attention Paw of Cleansing. Well done on the removal of Targets 1 and 2. You are to eliminate your next target in two nights. You're next target is Iisiir of Foxingale. She is to die by poisoined healing tonic. She drinks it religiously and shall be a fitting death of the vain healer. Courteously yours, V."

The watchman peers his eyes at Mogril. "You have some explaining to do."

Mogriils ears layed back as Vuu read the missive. He was starting to growl. A glance to Verbosk. "Why not ask my master. I was just the paw, Vuusoolta was the mastermind!" he roared.

Verbosk begins to unhook his belt from his pants, then stops short.

Vuusoolta dropped his calm facade for a moment and simply smiled. "Yes, and you did your job quite well Mogriil in ridding us of the elderly poison in this Den."

"Please. Spare me the lies. You are under arrest for the murder of Counselor Ferrousbane and Counselor..." He stops his words, then looks at Vuu.

"Bromissk?"

"Mogriil speaks the truth. The Den was left in sorry shape by my father. Removal of bad blood was needed. Mogriil has been doing my bidding in hopes of obtaining a clear title."

"Oh, great Frith..." If this was a Hitchcock movie, the camera would zoom in on the horrified watchman while the background zoomed out.

Mogriil was noting Verbosks distraction. He could either attack and kill the only witness to their plans, or he could escape and cary on his orders. His ears twitched some.

"Bromissk... YOU?! It was you all along?!"

Vuu splayed his paws wide not hiding anything. "Leaders often have to do dirty work but stay clean so we have others maneuver pawns as needed. The counsel is a piece not needed in this game."

"Why? This is MURDER!"

"Murder is killing in cold blood without purpose. I merely culled the old and sick out of leadership."

"You killed two of your own and framed your sister!"

Mogril was slowly moving to a crouched position. All the better to run or attack with. There was a back door within 4 paces of him.

"Lene's framing was unfortunate, but it did misdirect investigations for our second strike."

"Bromissk... So now what? You're going to kill every Counselor?"

Vuu actually laughed. The hut shook violently. "Why kill all of them? Only two remain. I can easily vote the Counsel is under duress and take over to appoint new Counselors. At that time I can abolish the whole counsel without more death. However, the populace only believe the failing of the counsel with each death, another counselor must fall."

"A HEALER?!"

He brings a hand to his snout. "I'm sorry, Bromissk..."

"Yes. A healer who thinks she is above all because of her power to bring life to the dying and relief to those in pain. To be a counselor means she has lost her true purpose. Helping others not ruling them."

The draconian hits the wall, leaving a noticable dent. He cannot deal with this revelation. His Master, a killer! It doesn't seem possible.

Seems Verbosk was well distracted. He may be pinned for the deaths of counselors, but he wouldn't risk killing someone not in the plans. Mogriil dashed for the back door breaking through it and escaping into the night.

Verbosk barely notices the assassin make a run for it.

Vuu noted Verbosk hiting the wall from disbelief that a master so kind as he could be some manipulative and Mogriil escaping. The sounds of warning howls were raised as the watch mostt likely spotted a fleeing lupe during curfew.

The student turns to his master. Grey draconian eyes stare at him .

Mogriil springs on a huge dire wolf mount and escapes the Den as more lupinossai watch closed in. A small group is sent after him.

Vuu regarded Verbosk with a casual air as he sipped green tea. Ice blue eyes both calm and chilling.

Verbosk leans his head on the wall, trying to come to terms with this.

With the calm voice of a teacher, Vuu spoke. "Surely this is not the first time you've had a master who has brought order to his rulings by death?"

"Rahsks in Tississk did it all the time, Bromissk."

"What makes this any different?" Vuu asked in a calm voice again.

"But these are not dissidents, Bromissk. These are the leaders of your race!"

"They are not leaders. They were chosen by age and warrior status. Not for wisdom. I have heard too many squables from that Counsel. They were ill at the core."

"They had families. Friends. People who care about them."

"Such is the way of a Lupinossai. Life and death is natural. Some deaths swifter than others."

The Hlask shakes his head against the wall.

"I am not asking you to understand why this is happening. Simply put, the Counsel is the last bastion in this Den with my fathers taint on it. Removed, the Den will be prepared for a brighter future. That and a pack is ment to be ruled by one alpha. Too many alpha's and a blood bath will ensue."

"Bromissk..." He slides down the wall and turns around. He lands full on his tail and is not bothered by the awkward bending of it from his weight being on the base of the tail rather than the knees like it usually is.

"Yes?" Vuu asked in an eerily calm voice.

"Why didn't you just challenge them? Why did you have to resort to... this?" asked Verbosk.

"My father tried going against the counsil. He was exiled. Same with his wife. The counsel could not be stopped by a challenge. The elder wariors only know one thing. Death by combat. So I sent a champion to kill them in combat. Some combat is physical, some is mental."

Verbosk looks to the side and rubs his snout.

"You have come to adore my people a lot. Just because we have come far in little time does not remove from us the fact that we are a people engineered for one purpose. War. A strong leader will keep from warring so readily. A weak leader will seek to posture by seeking war to prove himself." Vuu pointed out.

"Yes... you are right, Bromissk."

"Now then. We have a murderer on the loose. You can either shed light on what you have learned and put this Den in uncontrolled chaos, or you can assist my step sister in bringing in the murderer solidifying my rule by showing I have things in paw."

"Yes, Bromissk... I will... pursue the murderer..."

"If you succeed in catching him before the murder is comitted, I will spare Isiirs life."

"And if I don't?"

"That answer should be obvious." Vuu gave a silent, tooth filled grin.

"I don't know if I want to do this anymore..."

"To do what? To learn, or to do your job?" Vuu asked with a hint of intrigue.

"Just tell Lene and let her deal with it."

"Ah. I see." Vuu said with a calm voice.

The draconian shakes his head. "No. That is selfish. It is my duty to bring justice. But, then again, this is pure Den matters now. Perhaps it's best to leave it in Lupinoss hands."

Then he glances at Vuu. "But, in a way, I'm a part of it now because of you. Perhaps it's as much my responsibility as hers to ensure the safety of the Den."

Vuu went silent for a moment in thought. "Yes. It is a Lupinossai who has killed two other Lupinossai. Would you offer my step sister assistance as a favor of your Bromissk?"

"Yes. I will apprehend the killer, Master."

Vuu nodded. "Good. You have my permission to bring him back dead, or alive. I ask for your assistance as Lene may have difficulty dealing with him."

"Yes, Bromissk. It will be done, and no more deaths will occur. Will you notify the Watch here, and alert the general populace?"

"Yes. In fact, I believe they are gathering outside now. Gather all the evidence from this place and there will be no doubt." Vuu stood slowly.

"Yes, Bromissk."

The Hlask looks around, now scrutinizing every nook and cranny.

Vuu opened the door on the little hut and glanced outside. Several lupe watch members were vigorously inspecting everything. "Over here. We have found the murderer's house. He has fled. Tell everyone to be inside at night and to report to anyone here if Mogriil is seen."

The Lupe watchmen howl in affirmation and spread the word.

Verbosk opens the pepper chest and pulls out the earring and seal. He comes outside. "Bromissk, I found these."

"Perfect. Now all that is needed is him and his lance. We may have our first Lupinossai prisoner tried and jailed." Vuu said with a distant voice.

He places the pieces of evidence in his pocket, intending to take them down to Watch HQ to get them properly bagged and preserved.

Vuu glanced at Verbosk for a moment. "This is the darkness of the storm. It will only get lighter from here."

"Yes, Bromissk. I believe you."

"I will leave you to your duties then. Let me know when you would like to continue our lessons." Vuu spoke with ease. He turned to leave.

"Our lessons are always welcome, Bromissk." The draconian follows after his master. He then remembers his priorities, and he runs back to track the fugitives scent.