Pack updates: We are now an official pack! We will also be a player in the upcoming shop meta (oooh)! Check out our new subforum and discord channel/server for pack information and updates! For all new joining applications, please post them in the appropriate thread in the Moongate subforum.
At this point, slots for Captain have been filled and will now be closed. The High Seer rank will also be closed - we're having her made as a contest giveaway! Other ranks are still open!
Thanks guys!
Posted: Thu May 16, 2019 4:52 pm
Location
The Tundra (Bluestone)
The pack claims territory in the far northern area of the Bluestone, in the harsh tundra. Above the treeline, permafrost, high winds and low temperatures offer an intense alpine landscape marked by steep cliffs, glacial expanses, and grasslands. Flora is characterized by low growing shrubs, grasses and mosses. Common sources of prey at this altitude include pika, marmots, mountain goats and sheep, and yak, with more diversity available in the warmer months, during migratory seasons (like deer and elk), and below the treeline.
Territories
The Mountains Where the Moon Lives
There are several prominent peaks in this range, with the pack referring to them collectively as ‘The Mountains Where the Moon Lives’. Narrow, treacherous passes and hidden caverns cut through their rocky slopes and ridges. Patches of snow and ice cling to the steep faces, and occasionally fall during avalanches or melt during the summer into the glacial valleys below, creating the sources of rivers and lakes in the area. Glacial flooding, rockslides, avalanches, winter storms and blizzards are the most severe occasional hazards. Geothermal activity is also present.
The Pass
A winding route has formed one of few known passes through ‘The Mountains Where the Moon Lives’, leading northward between a tall pair of twin peaks, named ‘Silverhorn’ and ‘Everwhite’. The ascent’s remoteness and navigational difficulty helps guard against attacks from outsiders. The pack’s population is distributed at points along the pass, referred to as Gates.
The Full Moon Gate (The Moongate)
The Near Moon Gate
The Half Moon Gate
The Crescent Moon Gate
The New Moon Gate The lowest point and the beginning of the pass in a sloping, glacial valley, just north of the treeline. The area features alpine grasslands studded with boulders, thin and stunted forests, and ribbon-like creeks of meltwater that collect into an alpine lake. From here, one can view the stunning landscape of the forests and foothills of the Bluestone below, as well as the imposing steep ascent of the mountain range behind. This area is home to the majority of the wolves and marks the beginning of the pack’s territory.
The Summit
The Overlook
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Moriko Omori
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Moriko Omori
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Posted: Thu May 16, 2019 4:58 pm
History
The New Phase
"We were weaker, once – content to leave our home, our source of life each winter to become soft and fat among those unworthy of the Moon's embrace. Led by an old fool who showed his belly at the first sign of danger and did not heed his son's wisdom. We were crippled by this; wolves without teeth. Black Forest changed that.”
The Moongate has been lead for a number of years now by Black Forest, a wolf who violently overthrew his mother and father in order to keep the pack in the mountains. His reign since then has been relatively peaceful: those who have remained with the pack after its coup have settled in to the new way of things, and those who haven't have either fled or found their home beyond the Moongate.
Culture
The Law of the Mountain
The Wisdom of the Moon
Survival of the Fittest
Members of the Moongate live by the idea that might makes right and that only the fittest survive. There is no practical difference between military and mundane life for those who reside on the mountain; every member receives combat training from an early age and is expected to be ready to fight and die for the pack at a moment's notice. As there are no civilians in their ranks, they do not see any in other packs as well – anyone is fair game in battle.
Posted: Thu May 16, 2019 5:03 pm
Rules
Naming
The Moongate does not have any particular naming requirements.
Appearance
The pelts (excluding dye) of the Moongate are always variations of black, gray, or white, in any ratio, in order to better camouflage their numbers in the stark alpine landscape. Small amounts of creams, tans or browns may be acceptable on a case-by-case basis. It is common for wolves to be scarred and lean, a result of rough training and life in the tundra.
Temperament
To fight well as a unit, members are expected to be able to stand on their own in both battle and in mind. It is common for pack members to be aggressive and argumentative. Openness to violence and the ability to follow orders is a requirement. If discovered, the weak-willed will be cast out.
Unions / Divorce
Relationships within the pack are not discriminated against in any fashion, to include flings and inter-rank fraternization. Arranged marriages (for political alliances, convenience, or otherwise) are common and polygamy is also accepted. Relationships including rogues/non-members are frowned upon and unrecognized. Official unions and divorce require a judgement to be passed, but are not looked down upon.
Breeding
With a focus on building strong warriors, breeding irresponsibly is frowned upon. However, due to the current focus on increasing pack numbers, this may be overlooked. If, due to rogue breeding (or throwbacks), a pup is born into the pack with an unacceptable pelt color, or is found to not have the right temperament for the mountain, they will be allowed to stay with the pack until their training is complete, at which time they will be exiled.
Non-wolves
The tolerance of familiar species depends on their perceived usefulness and ability to live without increased burden on the pack in the mountains. Currently, Ravens and Deer are accepted into the Moongate, but are relegated to the area of the New Moon gate unless otherwise stated. All other pack rules apply equally. Hares are not accepted and are considered no better than a meal.
Fighting
As combat is so ingrained in the culture of the pack, it's not uncommon to see physical or verbal fights break out. These are considered acceptable and are generally appreciated – it's considered a great way to relieve stress, polish skills, and settle disputes. If a challenge is made for ascension or to cement a decision, the fight must be judged by a Delta or higher (depending on the rank of those fighting) to be considered official. At this time, challenging the Alpha is not allowed and is considered treason.
Crimes
While fighting is acceptable, high crimes within the Moongate will not be tolerated. These include: murder, abuse, and treason and the judgement would be severe (death or exile). If found guilty of a minor crime, such as theft or civil disobedience, judgements are typically lighter, and it is even common to joke about being caught over committing the actual crime.
Judgements
Judgements (to include blessings, decrees, and punishments) are passed by the Alpha, along with the support of the Betas.
Leaving the Mountain
Members are forbidden outside the Moongate's borders unless otherwise stated. Normal pack activity may necessitate leaving the mountain at times - for example, hunters may venture into the Bluestone to bring back game, Scouts may patrol the borders for threats or recruitment opportunities, Gatherers may collect resources in the foothills and forests, and other ranks may accompany them on pack-sanctioned duties, but all are expected to report in and return to the Moongate once their business is complete. If a wolf leaves the mountain without permission and does not report back or return within a timely manner, they will be considered a deserter and will be exiled.
Traditions
[Warrior-related]
Training
Begin training at a young age, brought up to each gate to learn different skills. Lower ranks are fed less intentionally to keep them hungry and willing to fight/steal, and also to keep the strongest/higher ranks in top condition
Organized hunts and excursions
[AGNI KAI]
Observed battle for sport, settling disagreements, initiations, gladiator style
The Games
A show of strength at each gate, a race through the gates, song and story session, pilgrimage to the Moongate
[Moon-related]
Gatherings
Pack announcements, judgements and punishments, promotions and initiations, union ceremonies
Beyond the Moongate
Death march for enemies, funeral for the honored fallen or elderly/ill, training for survival, passage to the overlook and summit
[Occult-related]
Moontalkers
oracle at Delphi, full moon blessings and prayers
Haruspecy
Haruspex brought along to organized hunts to inspect kills for signs from the Moon, performs animal sacrifices
Visions
guard the waning pools/chambers, use geothermal fumes and spring water and alpine herbs to elicit visions, blue ice reflection/visions
Moriko Omori
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Moriko Omori
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Posted: Thu May 16, 2019 5:19 pm
Ranks
Alpha - Limit: 1
The leader of the pack – his word is law, and he has the final say in all matters. Black Forest is the current alpha and may not be challenged at this time.
Beta
The heart, mind, and body of the Alpha, these are his closest advisors.
Alpha's Mate - Limit: ? While not a formal rank, the alpha's mate is granted all of the privileges that Betas and Deltas are privy to. They may act as an advisor to the Alpha.
High Seer - Limit: 1 | Closed - there will be a contest to win this rank Head of the Moontalkers and Healers. This wolf is tasked with the most important divinations due to their innate connection with the moon. Always a seer.
Captain - Limit: 2 | Closed Head of the Warriors. They must manage the Warriors and choose new ones when the time comes, as well as act as strategist and martial commander. They are expected to be well versed in the laws of the pack and will work with the Alpha and Betas to mediate disputes where the Warriors cannot.
Delta
An elite class for those with great spiritual and martial power. These members are hand-picked by the Alpha and Betas and will occasionally be called upon to act as advisors as well.
Warrior - Limit: 8 (for now) While all members of Moongate are expected to be proficient in combat, those who especially excel are chosen by the Alpha and Captain to join the elite rank of Warrior. These wolves are expected to train pups in combat, act as bodyguards for the higher ranking members of the pack, and keep the peace. While any rank may become a Warrior, they are most often chosen from Hunters.
Moontalker - Limit: 4 These wolves are considered 'blessed by the Moon' and are typically seers or particularly skilled in healing or interpreting. They are expected to organize rituals, and are keepers of the Waning Pools, used for both divination and healing. Healers and Moontalkers often work closely together; in the absence of one of these ranks, the other is expected to fill in.
Gamma
The lifeblood that keeps the pack running, Gammas make up a majority of the population. Their roles are determined during their initiation.
Hunter - Unlimited These wolves provide food for the pack – a dangerous job, considering the hostile climate and terrain.
Healer - Unlimited Wolves that tend to the wounded and ill, even in the midst of a battle. During times where no Moontalkers exist or are unable to work, the High Seer may choose a number of Healers to fulfill that role as the two often work closely. They are responsible for familiars, and may also assist in pup-rearing before training.
Gatherer - Unlimited The busybodies and artisans of the pack, these wolves are expected to gather resources, maintain food stores, and transport them up and down the mountain. Some among them are artisans, crafting decorations and apparel from bones, pelts, feathers, flowers, and mosses.
Scout - Unlimited These wolves keep an eye on the pack's territory, though they are occasionally called upon to act as spies and diplomats in lands outside of their own. They also act as messengers; if the call is raised from one gate, a scout will quickly alert the others with their own call.
Other
Unranked wolves who are unable to fully participate in the pack due to age.
Elders - Unlimited An uncommon rank, these are highly respected wolves that have grown too old to participate in the glory of battle. These veterans are occasionally called forward to provide counsel on matters, as they are considered among the most experienced and wise members of the pack. They also act as storytellers and keepers of lore.
Pups - Unlimited Pups are taken from their family after they are weaned to begin training with others of their age as a military unit under the supervision of an adult. This warband will be considered the pup's family and will be maintained at least until their initiation.
Members
None yet!
Posted: Thu May 16, 2019 5:39 pm
Joining is: currently open! To join, please post the form below in this thread!
Please read the pack information and rules above. We are still filling out some pieces, but the most important elements are there. If you have any questions regarding joining, please contact Moriko Omori or Ars Nebarius.
[size=10][b]Name:[/b] [link to cert] [b]Owner:[/b] [b]Desired Rank:[/b] [b]Personality:[/b] [keep it brief] [b]History:[/b] [if any, keep it brief] [/size]
Moriko Omori
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Ars Naberius
Dapper Seeker
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Posted: Thu May 23, 2019 1:54 pm
Name:Hellebore Owner: Ars Naberius Desired Rank: Captain? If not, then warrior or hunter! Personality: Disciplined, aggressive, deeply religious - devoted to the mountains and the moon. History: Born into the pack!
Posted: Thu May 23, 2019 2:46 pm
Name:Grayscale Mimicry (no cert yet) Owner: KasaiLoki Desired Rank: Captain, if possible. warrior if not. :3 Personality: Loyal towards the public and his alpha, mysterious when it comes to his private life. History: Born in.
KasaiLoki
Moonlight Hunter
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Moxxiie
Moxxiie
Questionable Explorer
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Posted: Fri May 24, 2019 6:03 am
Name:Eclipse Owner: Moxxiie Desired Rank: Scout or Warrior, depending on the need. ** Personality: He's cold and determined. Whatever task or job he is given, he will get done, no matter what it takes. He doesn't let anyone get in his way or divert him from his goal. He has an aversion to pups and other small creatures as he feels they are a hindrance to his duty. If they get in his way, he doesn't hesitate to snap or growl at them. History: No history as of yet. He's pretty much a blank slate. I wouldn't mind having him recruited by someone in the pack who feels he might be a good fit. ** It might be fun to have him come in as a scout, but is moved up to warrior if he impresses the captain.
Posted: Fri May 24, 2019 4:23 pm
Name:Crimson Tendrils Owner: Fea Line Desired Rank: Warrior or Hunter Personality: Quiet, cold, calculating and loyal to her pack. She doesn't speak much until she's primed to strike. History: Born in!
Name:Boon Owner: Pandora Talie Desired Rank: Warrior Personality:-More info here-
Strengths: Big, strong, and skilled at fighting. Weaknesses: Hard headed with a soft spot for 'weaklings'
History: Born into the pack by a single mother with a severe temperament at a relatively advanced age, Boon had to fight hard for his position.
Posted: Mon May 27, 2019 5:28 pm
Name:Ice (Cert coming!) Owner: Bittersweet Candies Desired Rank: Healer Personality: Quiet, though sweet when she actually decides to talk. She takes pride in her work and finds no greater joy than helping her pack mates. She also greatly enjoys looking over pups, though isn't sure that she wants any of her own. It takes a lot to anger her, making her into a bit of a doormat... she doesn't seem to mind, though. History: Born in!
Bittersweet Candies
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Moriko Omori
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Posted: Sat Jun 01, 2019 5:56 pm
Black Forest has inspected the gathering of wolves thus far, and deemed them worthy of entering the Moongate.
Ars Naberius
Welcome to the Moongate, Captain Hellebore! Black Forest expects you to keep this warband in line.
KasaiLoki
Grayscale Mimicry, the Moongate beckons you and as captain, the pack will look to you as a symbol of strength.
Moxxiie
Eclipse, report to the Moongate. The Moon will judge your strengths. ((We can absolutely set up a joining rp once the pack is officially created to help determine your rank - either is fine, and your idea sounds great!))
Fea Line
Crimson Tendrils, the Moongate appreciates your contribution and wishes you the swiftest of kills. ((If you like, we can set up a joining rp with her as a Hunter, and perhaps she can be promoted to warrior? Up for anything!))
Pandora Talie
Warrior Boon! Keep an eye on the young recruits - the Moongate accepts only the strongest. Teach them all you have learned.
Bittersweet Candies
Ice, tend to our pack and return their vigor - bathe us all in the Moon's healing embrace!
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At this point, slots for Captain have been filled and will now be closed. The High Seer rank will also be closed - we're having her made as a contest giveaway! Other ranks are still open! We also now have enough members to qualify as an official pack, once pack creation is opened and our application is submitted! heart
Posted: Tue Jun 04, 2019 11:19 am
Name:Blushing Oath (Also known as 'The Blood Keeper') Owner: Shia bean Desired Rank: Moontalker preferred! Or healer. Personality: An eccentric wolf who is extremely proud of her craft. Loyal. Curious. Mainly keeps to herself, taking up counsel with very few members of the pack on a regular basis. Extremely doting upon her leech collective, showcasing a maternal/protective side. It hinges on possessiveness. When caught in conversation, or confronted with an ailed member, her demeanor can range from standoffish, to negligent, to fixated, to excitable all dependent upon when (and where) you catch her. History: When an alliance between the Vilebloods and Moongate was solidified, Bloodborne sweetened the deal by offering one of his two daughters as an extension of good faith... The pale one. Something of a prodigy, or at least she was led to believe as much, Blushing Oath grew-up with her sister, but only her sister, reared by pack members to learn the ways of bloodlust but generally kept in solitude. This, so that the indoctrination would sit well within them both. Blushing Oath would come to fully embrace the role she'd play in this pack marriage.
Shia bean Vice Captain
Prophet
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Ars Naberius
Dapper Seeker
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Posted: Fri Jun 14, 2019 11:15 am
Name:Ashfall (just posted for certing!) Owner: Ars Naberius Desired Rank: Scout Personality: Often gets lost in her own thoughts; not great at multitasking, but give her one solid objective and she won't rest until it's completed. Still kind of a blank slate! History: Born into the pack!
