Vale

Renier (vanished)

Vale was a proud pack. Oh yes. MAJOR WIP

## Geography

With spiraling mountains, glittering lochs and emerald woodland, Vale’s landscape is just as rugged and rich as the wolves themselves. Their land is varied, with thick green forests and plentiful rivers to the south, and towering mountains in the North, bridged by deep glens that make up the pack’s moorland. Such beauty is not without a cost, however. Maneuvering through the territory is a task in and of itself, often taking years for wolves to adapt to the strenuous heights of the unforgiving environment. Vale is often plagued by torrential snowfall and bitter cold, but such high precipitation levels allow the land to remain green throughout the year. The harsh winters are offset by the warmer seasons. Colder months are remedied by the pack’s vicinity to the ocean, which brings warm currents into the landscape, melting much of the snow throughout the Lowlands. Spring is a welcome reprieve from winter, shepherding new growth and moderate temperatures throughout the glens. The land is unforgiving, but Vale wolves would make their home nowhere else. Their hearts beat with the Highlands.

* **Terrain**: Tundra, deciduous, and coniferous landscape; Mountains, hills, meadows, forests, bogs, coast
* **Climate**: Overcast; Temperate cold year-round; rainy, with heavy snow in the Winter and short summers
* **Flora & Vegetation**: Coniferous trees, deciduous woodland, yews, fir trees, pine, birch, oak, redwood, ferns, mosses, thistle, primrose, mountain avens, bluebells, foxglove, heather, grass, and various lichens make up the majority of the landscape
* **Prey**: Deer, elk, caribou, moose, musk ox, mountain-goat, hare, ground vermin, rodents, lemmings, seal, and various fish (fresh-water and salt-water)
* **Predators**: Bear, coyote, wildcat, birds of prey, fox, pine marten, badger, and lone wolves
* **Natural Hazards**: Windstorms, floods, hail, sleet, snow and avalanches
* **Highest Peaks**: Sollunta Summit clocks in as the highest, followed by The Cathedrals to the East
* **Lowest Points**: Land's End, The Anvil & Whitethorn Valley

## Culture

Vale strongly believes in the well-being of the brood as a whole, as opposed to placing unique emphasis on the individual. The clan does not only seek to maintain itself, but to improve and grow exponentially. Vale wolves possess a special affinity with their environment, one that has allowed them to thrive in such a gruelling territory for so many years. They believe in honouring the land by limiting the use of their resources, and utilizing only what they must in order to survive. Their relationship with the highland is a delicate balance of give and take that must be observed. This harmonious kinship with the natural world gives life to a Valerian's spirituality and purpose.

JOINING

The pack’s strict isolation and untamed land make joining Vale’s ranks an incredibly difficult pursuit, though proving one’s allegiance is an even greater task. The wolves are hardly impressionable, and are skeptics by nature. Any extra wolf means an extra mouth to feed and body to defend. Therefore, every prospective member must prove their worth in order to gain a placement within the pack. This can be proving one’s physical prowess through hunting or combat, or exhibiting one’s mental dexterity through knowledge of botanical, historical, or cultural intellect. A new wolf starts at the bottom rung of Vale society and may suffer through a harsh existence until they are able to promote themselves. Newer wolves feed last, sometimes not at all as the scraps bear little meat. They must fight for den space, and are often times picked on by their superiors. But once their value and loyalty are proven, new wolves are quickly welcomed into Vale and become another "brother" within the pack.

> Trial Period: During the first few months, new members undergow a "trial period", in which they are kept under close watch by their superiors. Wolves under trial are forbidden from participating in pack-wide functions, such as hunts or festivals and must be under constant surveillance by the Beta's or Council members.
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ADVANCING IN RANK

In order to be recognized as a superior and move up within the pack's ranks, members must demonstrate their expertise and devotion to the brood. Lead positions are highly coveted and hold a great amount of power and importance within the pack. They are only undertaken by the pack’s most trusted and responsible wolves. All new wolves must begin their journey as a member of the Brood, and can work their way up to a Lead position by gaining knowledge and experience.

SOVEREIGNTY

**Division of Class:** In Vale, the division of diplomatic power is spread among many who have proven to their value to the clan. The pack functions more as a band of brothers rather than a rigid order. With that said, high-ranking wolves still reign supreme over those of inferior class. Violence and dominance is a tool utilized often to maintain the balance of the system. Higher ranking wolves have the priority of taking mates, where to den, when to feed, and are responsible for assigning duties and training the subordinates. Inferior wolves have a lower standing within the pack, and must submit to the orders of their superiors. A wolf can only move up in rank if they have earned their titles by contributing to the pack through taking on a task. Life on the bottom is no easy existence. Subordinate wolves must often fight for dens, food, and the right to take a mate. Brood wolves often bare the scars of their insubordination. Such a pecking order can be a cruel reality, but it is the Valerian way. (please note, in-character fighting/death will be discussed out-of-character beforehand)

**The Alphas:** The Alpha pair is recognized as the foremost leaders, and are at the helm of all major decisions. Above all, they act as the keepers of peace and safeguard the laws of the pack. Vale believes only the strongest and most honest of leaders can maintain dominance and reign supreme over the pack as an Alpha.

The Valerian/High Council: Alongside the Alphas are the Commanders (Betas)and the Eir (Spiritual Leader), who assist in maintaining the pack. Together, these groups make up Vale's democratic council. While the Alpha's word is final, no single wolf makes a decision nor passes a law; all settlements are discussed and debated in-depth by the council. This method works to keep the pack fair and balanced.

SPIRITUALITY

Vale wolves possess a special affinity with their environment, one that has allowed them to thrive in such a gruelling territory for so many years. They believe in honoring the land by limiting the use of their resources, and utilizing only what they must in order to survive. Their relationship with the highland is a delicate balance of give and take that must be observed. This harmonious kinship with the natural world gives life to a Valerian's spirituality and purpose.

> Post Dark Ages: The downfall of noble pack Havir saw many god-fearing wolves enter Vale packlands, and the differing spiritualities have caused unrest among the pack, and division among it's wolves. The pack struggles to unify under such vastly different beliefs. Valerians are free to practice their own individual religions or spiritual beliefs, but they are not recognized as by the pack and must be done so in private and so they do not encroach on the liberties of others.
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> *Havirian Gods*
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MATED PAIRS

A mateship between wolves is a sacred Valerian tradition. Wolves are capable of forming such strong bonds with one another that their hearts beat together as one. Valerians believe in "soulmates", and will often choose one partner who they are devoted to for a lifetime. Because Vale values strength, intelligence, and integrity above all, it is urged that only the most qualified of wolves be permitted to reproduce. Should two wolves wish to form a union or have a litter, they must to be granted permission by the ruling class. After gaining recognition as a couple, the Eir will conduct a wedding ceremony.

Ceremony: If two wolves wish to bond together through mateship, they must take part in a ceremony, lead by the Eir. The two wolves are brought to the shores of Seahaven, surrounded by their close friends and loved ones. Together they recite sacred vows of devotion and dedication; once the words have been spoke, the two traditionally place their foreheads together as a sign that they now share a single mind and soul. It is sometimes custom for couples to exchange "gifts" as a symbol of affection.

Afterwards, the newly wedded wolves will spend a week alone together in Beithwood, memorializing their relationship, and experiencing life for the first time as a couple. The only individuals barred from mating are Brood wolves, who are considered too insubordinate, or elderly, to reproduce.

However, bringing healthy pups into the pack is not always so romantic. Such an undertaking is also viewed as a way to strengthen and unify the brood. In some cases, mating between high-ranking wolves is designated as a duty to the pack rather than an expression of love. Should two wolves be viewed upon in high favor or are considered a beneficial match to bring new life into the pack, the Alphas will suggest that a pairing be formed. This relationship is called a "provisional union". The pair may choose to mate for life, or it may only be a brief courtship that will end once their young are weaned. Only recognized pairs among the pack are permitted to breed and bare pups. The higher a wolf is in rank, the more freedom he or she has when it comes to choosing a mate. Wolves ranked Lead and above are given the priority when it comes to breeding, and may take any subordinate mate, or those equal in stature, that they choose. If the partner they desire is already mated through a provisional union, they are permitted to challenge their current mate in battle. The winner is awarded breeding rights.

(please note that all mated pairs will be discussed out-of-character beforehand. You cannot force another character to take yours as a mate unless agreed upon by all parties.)

CEREMONIES

As the spiritual and cultural head of the pack, the Eir is responsible for all ceremonies that take place within the pack. These events are necessary to bring the clan together, and work to strengthen their internal bonds. Ritual celebrations and customs take place during seasonal changes, pack announcements, mated unions, births, coming-of-age celebrations, and deaths. Ceremonies are utilized as a way to bring the pack together and strengthen its bonds.

Coming of Age: Each juvenile wolf will be honored with a coming-of-age ceremony which marks their ascent into adulthood. Each young wolf chooses a task and is inducted into their new faction. The juvenile will be tasked with a solo mission in which they demonstrate their value and devotion to their faction. This dignifies the pup’s newfound independence and purpose. The juvenile wolf may now run with their faction, spending more time learning from those of their new task and less time training with their parents and Carers. They may even choose to feed and den with their task-mates, and are also now permitted to breed should they choose to take a mate.

Death & Passing on: Though Vale has no formal religion, they are connected to the land through their spirituality. It is generally believed by the Valerians that the dead join with the Earth by releasing their body back into the land from whence they came. Wolves who have passed on have their bodies laid to rest in what is considered the most peaceful and reflective grove in Vale; the Hall of Giants. Here, loved ones can come honor and remember those who have returned to the Earth. Valerians mourn for those they have losses, but recognize death as an ultimate end to one life and a beginning of a new one. This is the unavoidable cycle of life.

Treason & Misdemeanour's: Disloyalty it a serious crime, and often ends in a violent punishment or permanent exile from the pack, sometimes both. However, the guilty party has the right to go before the judiciary ruling class and plead their case. After hearing both the parties, the Alphas will deliver a sentence. If the perpetrator is found guilty, their punishment will match the severity of the crime they committed. Members are permitted to leave the pack without retaliation, though are very rarely accepted if they wish to rejoin. Punishment for severe wrongdoings is typically administered in a from a of violence, such as a permanent scarring and the removal of an ear, tail, or appendage. Those who have wronged the pack will forever bear the scars of their misdeeds. In cases of deadly, or abusive crimes, the punishment is most often death. All sentences are carried out by the Lead Sentinels.

*Holmgang* or "Alpha's Deathmatch": Any wolf who wishes to challenge the present alpha for the title must square off against him or her in a duel traditionally called *Holmgang*. There is only one victor; the losing wolf either fights to the death or is exiled from Vale and branded a Vandr. Hereditary nobility is not necessarily recognized, this varies from Alpha-to-Alpha.

*\*Please note - All plots regarding character exile/death will be discussed OOC beforehand\**

FESTIVALS

Winter Solstice celebrations: In honour of Vale's revival and in memory of those lost during the Dark Ages, the Winter solstice festival provides an opportunity for the Valerians to rejoice in their victory and embrace the coming of a new chapter.

Click for a more in-depth view

Spring Dance: A light-hearted celebration taking place during the early days of Spring, wolves gather in Dunn Hollow and celebrate new life.

In depth view coming soon.

## Laws

* Pack members are to treat each other with respect, regardless of rank.
* Pack members are to respect the land, and all creatures who live among them.
* The Astir and Elska have the final say.
	+ Lower ranking wolves will submit to the word of those who outrank them in task and social matters.
* All members must use their unique skill-sets to contribute to Vale; all must pull their weight and laziness will not be tolerated.
* Elders, pups, and pregnant females are to be especially safeguarded and may feed first with the Alphas
* Fraternizing with *Vandrs* or those from enemy packs is forbidden.
* Religion is a strictly personal practice, mention of or worship of gods should be done in private and shall not encroach on the liberties of others within the pack.
* Over-hunting and hunting for sport is strictly forbidden - One must take only what is needed and no more.
* Mating between couples is only permitted after having obtained consent from the ruling class.
	+ Only recognized pairs among the pack are permitted to breed and bear pups.
	+ Should a wolf desire another's provisional mate, they are permitted to challenge their opponent for breeding rights. Should the defender lose, he or she will forfeit their mate and the provisional union will be dissolved.
	+ Brood wolves without tasks cannot take a mate.
	+ Taking a mate outside the pack is only permissible when new blood is needed to flourish the pack.
* Should there be a survivor, the wolf defeated in an "Alpha's Deathmatch" is to be exiled from the pack.
* Those new to Vale must earn their task via a test administered by Commanders or *Hersirs*.
* Hunting is only permitted off-territory if there is a low supply of game within the borders.
* Leaving territory without informing a superior is strictly forbidden and punishable.
* Failure to comply with rules may result in trial, injury, outlaw, or death.

## Foreign Relations

Vale is no safe haven for outside wolves. They hold neither respect nor acceptance for foreigners. The pack would sooner incapacitate those who encroach on their land before openly welcoming them into their ranks. Their only focus is to protect their own, and do not seek to grow their numbers. As such, they will not waste their time and energy on providing assistance to outsiders.

Any wolf foreign to the pack is referred to as a *Vandr* and are automatically deemed untrustworthy. If a *Vandr* seeks to join the pack, they will be placed at the bottom of the hierarchy and forced to prove their devotion to the brood by working their way up the ranks. Those who fail this task will be expelled from the land. A second intrusion by the wolf in question will have serious repercussions. The severity of the pack’s isolation is a direct result of the pack’s previous Dark Age.

Post Dark Ages: Vale cuts ties with all other recognized packs in the area, save for one: Aryn, who proved to be Vale’s ally, came to the pack’s rescue to overthrow the false Queen. Vale continues to honor this alliance. The allied pack may be called upon in a time of need, including war, cultural celebrations and hunts.

* **Allies, or Cordial Relationships:** Aryn, Highvalley
* **Neutrality, or No Association:** Chandor, Fellfang, Heyl, Damasca, Tentaka
* **Shunned, or Enemies:** Vektren

## Tasks

* ***Medics.*** Scholars, cultural leaders, and healers of the pack.
* ***Sentinels.*** Warriors and defenders of the pack.
* ***Highland Guards.*** Stealthy agents who gather information on neighboring packs.
* ***Huntsmen.*** Provide food for the pack.
* ***Outriders.*** Official envoys and diplomats.
* ***Porters.*** Obsolete - tasked with tending to pups when their parents are away.
* ***The Black Watch.*** Obsolete - the close guardians of the King and Queen of Vale.

## Pack Allegiance

The following details the pack's allegiance at the time of its departure from the Domain.

* ***Alpha(s).*** The supreme commanders of the pack. The alphas are given the titles "Astir" (male) and "Elska" (female).
	+ Loki
* ***The Council.*** The pack's betas and second-in-command; the alpha's most trusted confidants; aid in decision making; lead the pack while the alphas are away; are hand-selected by the alphas from the Hersirs. Betas are given the title "Commander".
	+ Nyru (Outrider); Kyros (Sentinel); Quinn (Huntsman)
* ***The Eir.*** The head spiritual figure and mentor of the pack; guides the Medics; leads the pack's cultural ceremonies; is hand-selected by the Alphas from the Hersirs. Given prefix "Lord" or "Lady".
	+ N/A
* ***Hersir(s).*** Most respected and advanced in their tasks; the commanders of the Vanirs and oversee the training of the Squires; leaders of their factions; instructors of their craft. Given the prefix of "General" or "Hersir".
	+ N/A
* ***Vanir(s).*** Mid-ranking wolves and intermediates in their task; instructors of the Apprentices.
	+ ***Medics:*** N/A
	+ ***Sentinels:*** Triss
	+ ***Highland Guards:*** Venus
	+ ***Huntsmen:*** N/A
	+ ***Outriders:*** Dahlia; Marrok
* ***Squire(s).*** Those who train under the Vanirs; beginners in their tasks; trainee's and apprentices.
	+ ***Medics:*** N/A
	+ ***Sentinels:*** N/A
	+ ***Highland Guards:*** Snowball
	+ ***Huntsmen:*** Solveig
	+ ***Outriders:*** N/A
* ***Brood.*** The omegas of the pack. New members, retired elders, and those without tasks; the dregs of the pack.
	+ Borra; Ranna; Fenrir; Gareth; Naiteru Kiri; Kaia
* ***Pups.*** Wolves too young to hold tasks.
	+ N/A