{{CoigreachStorylineLeft|step21b_chapter7|The young hunter lets out a small woof of pleasure and steps forward to touch noses with you, stopping at the last second when he realizes his mistake. He looks away bashfully and doesn't meet your eyes.
{{CoigreachStorylineLeft|step21b_chapter7|The young hunter lets out a small woof of pleasure and steps forward to touch noses with you, stopping at the last second when he realizes his mistake. He looks away bashfully and doesn't meet your eyes.
Line 3,478:
Line 3,478:
{{StorylineNotice|The story will continue on '''November 25th'''.}}
{{StorylineNotice|The story will continue on '''November 25th'''.}}
<hr>
{{CoigreachStorylineRight|step05_chapter8|There's something not quite right...you feel as though you should explore to find its source. It feels as though danger lurks in the land.
Tip: try exploring to find something to continue the story!}}
You feel yourself pulled to an unsettling sight: a cave, with inky black darkness pouring out of it. You're unable to make yourself go closer...but you can't turn away, either. With a start you realize that this is no ordinary cave--it's the one Bronagh was sealed in! It looks menacing now, no longer the peaceful scene you left it not too long ago. Two sets of eyes peer at you from the darkness and whispers hiss threatening words in your ears. You finally pull yourself away and run away as fast as you can. You need to tell the Chaorainn Pack!</center>
<hr>
{{CoigreachStorylineLeft|step1_chapter8|Your pelt prickles with fear as you hurry toward the territory of the Chaorainn Pack. The sight of the portal leaking out from the cave, and the warnings of whatever those beings were...you push down your fear and keep moving forward. You must warn them.
Wind tugs at your fur and there are clouds gathering in the distance; it's almost as if the land itself is warning you of things yet to pass and pushing you on.
You burst into the clearing, startling Lorcan, who is sunning himself.
"[NAME]? What on earth?"}}
{{StoryBlueButton|You can't talk now; you need to find Sirona!|step2a_chapter8}}
{{StoryGreenButton|I need to find Sirona!|step2b_chapter8}}
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<hr>
{{CoigreachStorylineRight|step2a_chapter8|His voice fades away as you hurry to the herbalist's den. She's hovering over Quany, whose paw is stretched out as she applies medicine to it. They both jump, startled, and Sirona's eyes go wide at your unexpected appearance.
Before she can say a word, Lorcan bursts in after you, nearly crashing into your backside.
"What the hell, [NAME]? You can't just ignore me!"
You can see he's angry, but that doesn't matter now. You tell them in between gasps of breath about what you've discovered--that the cave Bronagh was sealed in is open, and the portal to the Faelcu realm is open for all to access.
Sirona stares at you in stunned silence, while Quany's breath rushes out of him with a small hiss. His lips peel back in the beginnings of a snarl.
"And here I was thinking I would get some peace today. Clearly not. Tell me exactly what happened, [NAME], and don't leave anything out."}}
{{StoryBlueButton|Tell them what happened|step3_chapter8}}
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<hr>
{{CoigreachStorylineLeft|step2b_chapter8|You push past him and hurry to the herbalist's den. His hurried paw steps can be heard behind you as he follows you. She's hovering over Quany, whose paw is stretched out as she applies medicine to it. They both jump, startled, and Sirona's eyes go wide.
"[NAME]! What is it? Is everything okay?"
You tell them in between gasps of breath about what you've discovered--that the cave Bronagh was sealed in is open, and the portal to the Faelcu realm is open for all to access.
Sirona stares at you in stunned silence, while Quany's breath rushes out of him with a small hiss. His lips peel back in the beginnings of a snarl.
"And here I was thinking I would get some peace today. Clearly not. Tell me exactly what happened, [NAME] and don't leave anything out."}}
{{StoryBlueButton|Tell them what happened|step3_chapter8}}
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<hr>
{{CoigreachStorylineRight|step3_chapter8|You recount what had happened with as much detail as you remember:
The cave, once still and peaceful, had turned to an inky darkness, so tangible that it looked like it was leaking out. The lights were numerous and danced, and the whispers assaulted your ears.
From the cave, two sets of shiny eyes stared at you menacingly, and your pelt prickled with unease when they appeared. They meant danger.
The whispers became louder, and two voices above all came through loud and clear:
"Oathbreaker."
"You broke An Aonta. You will pay."}}
{{StoryBlueButton|That's it|step4_chapter8}}
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<hr>
{{CoigreachStorylineLeft|step4_chapter8|Quany's brow furrows, shaking his head.
"Two, you say? That doesn't make sense. It can't be Bronagh again. Her spirit was at peace when she left. That phrase, too, An Aonta..."
"What does An Aonta mean?" Lorcan, who had been sitting silently by the entrance, finally pipes up. "It's nothing like I've ever heard."
Quany snorts in amusement. "That's because you're a pup, Lorcan. In fact, I don't think Sirona is even old enough to recognize it."
Sirona shakes her head, clearly just as confused as her son.}}
{{StoryBlueButton|But you do, don't you?|step5a_chapter8}}
{{StoryGreenButton|Well are you gonna tell us or not?|step5b_chapter8}}
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<hr>
{{CoigreachStorylineRight|step5a_chapter8|"Are you calling me old?" Quany snaps. He glares at you, but then let's out a sigh and continues:
"Vaguely. We don't use the old language anymore, but some words and phrases still pop up here and there in stories. An Aonta roughly translates to "The Pact." The only time I've ever heard it used is in stories relating to the Faelcu."
Sirona looks thoughtful. "Considering our experience with Bronagh, these old tales having truth to them doesn't seem all that far fetched. What exactly is it about?" she asks.
The elder hesitates, clearly uneasy. Is the story that bad?}}
{{StoryBlueButton|What's wrong?|step6_chapter8}}
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</table>
<hr>
{{CoigreachStorylineLeft|step5b_chapter8|"I see your manners are as terrible as ever," he retorts. With a sigh he continues:
"We don't use the old language anymore, but some words and phrases still pop up here and there in stories. An Aonta roughly translates to "The Pact." The only time I've ever heard it used is in stories relating to the Faelcu."
Sirona looks thoughtful. "Considering our experience with Bronagh, these old tales having truth to them doesn't seem all that far fetched. What exactly is it about?" she asks.
The elder hesitates, clearly uneasy. Is the story that bad?}}
{{StoryBlueButton|What's wrong?|step6_chapter8}}
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</table>
<hr>
{{CoigreachStorylineRight|step6_chapter8|"Nothing is necessarily wrong," he replies. "It's just not exactly a bedtime story."
"Well that's good, because you suck at those," Lorcan huffs, and Sirona gasps.
"Lorcan! Watch your tongue!" She looks horrified, but oddly, Quany is actually laughing.
"Oh, he's not wrong. He's also just mad that he didn't sleep for a week when I told him a particular favorite of mine when he was a pup," the elder sneers. Lorcan only glares at him and stays silent.
"All of that aside, let me see if I can remember it properly. Give me a moment."
He settles himself, and as if taking it as an invitation, Lorcan looks at you hopefully.}}
{{StoryBlueButton|Invite him to sit with you|step7a_chapter8}}
{{StoryGreenButton|Look away|step7b_chapter8}}
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<hr>
The choice you make in this step slightly alters to next few pages of the chapter, but does not affect the end of the story.
<h3 class="c-header active">Sit with Lorcan Steps</h3>
<div class="c-content" style="display: block;">
=== Sit with Lorcan Steps ===
{{CoigreachStorylineLeft|step7a_chapter8|The young wolf pads over in delight and sits next to you companionably. It's a simple gesture, but one that clearly has made his day.
"So from what I remember," Quany begins, "the Faelcu used to share this world with us. Over time, a rift formed between the mortal wolves and the Faelcu, which led to increasingly violent disagreements. Eventually, the mortal wolves drove them so far to the brink that they retreated to a place they could call their own: it's what we now know as the Faelcu Realm.
"For a time they left each other alone, but it wasn't long before the curiosity of younger generations that knew nothing of the past strife began to cause trouble again."}}
{{StoryBlueButton|They started fighting again?|step8a_chapter8}}
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<hr>
{{CoigreachStorylineRight|step8a_chapter8|Quany shakes his head. "Not exactly. At heart, the Faelcu were playful and loved playing tricks on one another and manipulating the world around them. The mortal wolves only knew of them in stories, and the Faelcu didn't know the violence the mortal wolves had caused.
"This presented an opportunity: the Faelcu enjoyed toying with the mortals who knew nothing of them, and they didn't harbor any ill will toward them without the knowledge of their ancestors. Soon their tales of mischief changed from stories to very real concerns. Their penchant for the Changeling nonsense drove the mortal wolves to once again hunt them down."}}
{{StoryBlueButton|So history repeated itself?|step9a_chapter8}}
{{StoryGreenButton|I can see where this is going|step9b_chapter8}}
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<hr>
{{CoigreachStorylineLeft|step9a_chapter8|"Let me finish, would you?" he growls, and you fall silent obediently.
"This time, though, instead of bloodshed, they eventually managed to make a deal. The Faelcu did not want to leave the mortal realm, and the mortal wolves wanted nothing to do with their tricks.
"In the end they agreed to simple terms: a wolf would join them in their realm when it grew old, to entertain them and tell them tales of the mortal world. They would get what they sought: a way to satiate their curiosity, while the mortal wolves could live in peace without worrying about Changelings, among other things.
"It was dubbed An Aonta."}}
{{StoryBlueButton|Why hasn't this been an issue before?|step10a_chapter8}}
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<hr>
{{CoigreachStorylineRight|step9b_chapter8|Quany shakes his head. "Not exactly. At heart, the Faelcu were playful and loved playing tricks on one another and manipulating the world around them. The mortal wolves only knew of them in stories, and the Faelcu didn't know the violence the mortal wolves had caused.
"This presented an opportunity: the Faelcu enjoyed toying with the mortals who knew nothing of them, and they didn't harbor any ill will toward them without the knowledge of their ancestors. Soon their tales of mischief changed from stories to very real concerns. Their penchant for the Changeling nonsense drove the mortal wolves to once again hunt them down."}}
{{StoryBlueButton|Seems convenient that it's happened now|step10b_chapter8}}
{{StoryGreenButton|Why hasn't this been an issue before?|step10a_chapter8}}
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<hr>
{{CoigreachStorylineLeft|step10a_chapter8|Quany's brow furrows. "That's what I'm not sure of...why now? As far as I know, if this story is to be believed, this is not something the pack has done for generations. If it was something that happened, why did it stop? Why is it an issue now when it hasn't been spoken of for generations?"
Sirona rises to her paws and begins to pace back and forth, her spinning thoughts easy to read on her face.
"This all started with Bronagh. We settled that score; everything should have gone back to normal. And it did, for a time...and now we're thrust back into it." Sirona is speaking out loud, but not addressing anyone in particular.}}
{{StoryBlueButton|Are we sure this isn't Bronagh again?|step11_chapter8}}
{{CoigreachStorylineLeft|step7b_chapter8|You look away, keeping your eyes expectantly on Quany, and notice Lorcan's face fall out of the corner of your eye. He goes to sit by Sirona, making it a point to make his face go neutral.
"So from what I remember," Quany begins, "the Faelcu used to share this world with us. Over time, a rift formed between the mortal wolves and the Faelcu, which led to increasingly violent disagreements. Eventually, the mortal wolves drove them so far to the brink that they retreated to a place they could call their own: it's what we now know as the Faelcu Realm.
"For a time they left each other alone, but it wasn't long before the curiosity of younger generations that knew nothing of the past strife began to cause trouble again."}}
{{StoryBlueButton|They started fighting again?|step8b_chapter8}}
</td>
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</table>
<hr>
{{CoigreachStorylineRight|step8b_chapter8|Quany shakes his head. "Not exactly. At heart, the Faelcu were playful and loved playing tricks on one another and manipulating the world around them. The mortal wolves only knew of them in stories, and the Faelcu didn't know the violence the mortal wolves had caused.
"This presented an opportunity: the Faelcu enjoyed toying with the mortals who knew nothing of them, and they didn't harbor any ill will toward them without the knowledge of their ancestors. Soon their tales of mischief changed from stories to very real concerns. Their penchant for the Changeling nonsense drove the mortal wolves to once again hunt them down."}}
{{StoryBlueButton|So history repeated itself?|step9c_chapter8}}
{{StoryGreenButton|Let me guess, more bloodshed...|step9d_chapter8}}
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<hr>
{{CoigreachStorylineLeft|step9c_chapter8|"Let me finish, would you?" he growls, and you fall silent obediently.
"This time, though, instead of bloodshed, they eventually managed to make a deal. The Faelcu did not want to leave the mortal realm, and the mortal wolves wanted nothing to do with their tricks.
"In the end they agreed to simple terms: a wolf would join them in their realm when it grew old, to entertain them and tell them tales of the mortal world. They would get what they sought: a way to satiate their curiosity, while the mortal wolves could live in peace without worrying about Changelings, among other things.
"It was dubbed An Aonta."}}
{{StoryBlueButton|Why hasn't this been an issue before?|step10d_chapter8}}
</td>
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</table>
<hr>
{{CoigreachStorylineRight|step9d_chapter8|"Would you like to finish the story, [NAME]? Clearly you know it better than I do." Quany glares at you, and you feel Lorcan's irritated gaze from across the den. Good for you; you've not only pissed Quany off, but Lorcan, too. Maybe you should take the hint and keep your mouth shut. After you fall silent, Quany continues:
"This time, though, instead of bloodshed, they eventually managed to make a deal. The Faelcu did not want to leave the mortal realm, and the mortal wolves wanted nothing to do with their tricks.
"In the end they agreed to simple terms: a wolf would join them in their realm when it grew old, to entertain them and tell them tales of the mortal world. They would get what they sought: a way to satiate their curiosity, while the mortal wolves could live in peace without worrying about Changelings, among other things.
"It was dubbed An Aonta."}}
{{StoryBlueButton|So this magical pact is suddenly an issue? I don't buy it|step10c_chapter8}}
</td>
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</table>
<hr>
{{CoigreachStorylineLeft|step10d_chapter8|Quany's brow furrows. "That's what I'm not sure of...why now? As far as I know, if this story is to be believed, this is not something the pack has done for generations. If it was something that happened, why did it stop? Why is it an issue now when it hasn't been spoken of for generations?"
Sirona rises to her paws and begins to pace back and forth, her spinning thoughts easy to read on her face.
"This all started with Bronagh. We settled that score; everything should have gone back to normal. And it did, for a time...and now we're thrust back into it." Sirona is speaking out loud, but not addressing anyone in particular.}}
{{StoryBlueButton|Are we sure this isn't Bronagh again?|step11_chapter8}}
</td>
</tr>
</table>
<hr>
{{CoigreachStorylineRight|step10c_chapter8|"Ever the cheery one, aren't you?" Lorcan mutters under his breath, and Sirona lets out an exasperated sigh.
"Honestly, knock it off, both of you. We're going to be here all day if you two keep interrupting." Her hard stare cows you into silence and Lorcan turns away, ignoring your existence.
"Whether you buy it or not, [NAME]. it stands to reason that there's some truth to it. If this story is to be believed, this is not something the pack has done for generations. If it was something that happened, why did it stop? Why is it an issue now when it hasn't been spoken of for generations?"
Sirona rises to her paws and begins to pace back and forth, her spinning thoughts easy to read on her face.
"This all started with Bronagh. We settled that score; everything should have gone back to normal. And it did, for a time...and now we're thrust back into it." Sirona is speaking out loud, but not addressing anyone in particular.}}
{{StoryBlueButton|Are we sure this isn't Bronagh again?|step11_chapter8}}
</td>
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</table>
<hr>
After this point, the two storyline paths merge again.
</div>
{{CoigreachStorylineLeft|step11_chapter8|Sirona simply shakes her head, and Quany stays silent. It doesn't feel the same...but what else could it be?
"Wait a minute," Lorcan pipes up. "Bronagh is the one who opened the portals, isn't she? They weren't open before?"
Quany observes Lorcan thoughtfully before nodding.
"That's right. There was none of the portal nonsense going on with the whispers and lights. What are you getting at?"
Lorcan looks excited now. "So if the portals weren't open before...what if Bronagh's interference opened them, and then they never got closed like we thought? Bronagh was just a spirit; she wasn't a Faelcu. What if she wasn't able to control them at all?"}}
{{StoryBlueButton|Hm...|step12_chapter8}}
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<hr>
{{CoigreachStorylineRight|step12_chapter8|Lorcan's words are met with stunned silence for several moments before Sirona speaks.
"So if Bronagh truly had no power...does that mean the Faelcu themselves were behind this all along?"
"Given what the old stories say, I suppose it's not out of the question," Quany adds. "We don't know the extent of their power, but we do know that they like to prey on mortal wolves with their tricks. It's entirely possible they simply used Bronagh to gain access to our world."}}
{{StoryBlueButton|So you're saying they forced Bronagh to do what she did?|step13_chapter8}}
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<hr>
{{CoigreachStorylineLeft|step13_chapter8|The elder shakes his head, staring off into the distance as he speaks.
"Not forced, no...but perhaps Bronagh becoming what she did all those years ago wasn't entirely a coincidence."
The den goes silent once again, and Lorcan doesn't seem convinced.
"But that doesn't make sense," he protests. When did the portals get closed? How? Why?" He's strangely agitated, and you can't quite get a read on his mood.
"I think we're beyond the point of anything making sense," Sirona tells him softly. "We can only guess. The issue at hand is that they're still open."}}
{{StoryBlueButton|He does make a good point|step14_chapter8}}
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<hr>
{{CoigreachStorylineRight|step14_chapter8|"He does, [NAME]," Quany agrees, "but Sirona also has a point: we don't really know, and we may never know. It's speculation that makes sense in theory, but that's all it is."
He stands and lets out a stretch, his joints popping.
"If these Faelcu are pursuing An Aonta, how will we ever get rid of them? Something that supposedly happened generations ago isn't something we have any control over," Lorcan points out.
Sirona sighs. "As much as I wish it weren't true, Lorcan is right. Are we truly going to pay the price for something our ancestors did?"}}
{{StoryBlueButton|What if...we forge a new one?|step15a_chapter8}}
{{StoryGreenButton|Agreements can change|step15b_chapter8}}
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<hr>
{{CoigreachStorylineLeft|step15a_chapter8|The herbalist peers at you curiously.
"A new one? You mean a new An Aonta?" Her eyes go wide at the thought, and she looks at Quany. "Could it work?"
Quany has a look of admiration on his face; clearly you've impressed the old man.
"In theory...I don't see why not," he agrees. "I've no idea how, but if the intention is there and they get what they want, how could they refuse?"
Lorcan's fur bristles and he lets out a low growl.
"You want to let them take more wolves?" he snarls. "Are you crazy?"}}
{{StoryBlueButton|Lorcan...|step16_chapter8}}
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<hr>
{{CoigreachStorylineRight|step15b_chapter8|The herbalist peers at you curiously.
"They can...are you suggesting what I think you are? To forge a new An Aonta?" Her eyes go wide at the thought, and she looks at Quany. "Could it work?"
Quany has a look of admiration on his face; clearly you've impressed the old man.
"In theory...I don't see why not," he agrees. "I've no idea how, but if the intention is there and they get what they want, how could they refuse?"
Lorcan's fur bristles and he lets out a low growl.
"You want to let them take more wolves?" he snarls. "Are you crazy?"}}
{{StoryBlueButton|Lorcan...|step16_chapter8}}
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<hr>
{{CoigreachStorylineLeft|step16_chapter8|"Lorcan, calm down. Your temper will get us nowhere," Sirona scolds, and the young wolf struggles to quiet himself.
"My hope," Quany continues quietly, "is to see if we can come to a new agreement--one where they benefit but we don't lose any more members of our pack. Or other packs, for that matter. What remains to be seen, however, is if it will work at all. The Faelcu are not known to be forgiving. It's best we prepare for the worst."
Lorcan scowls and shakes his head back and forth vehemently.
"I'm not letting them take any more wolves; I'll kill them before they do." He puffs himself up, and though he is young, he's still a full-grown wolf with formidable strength.}}
{{StoryBlueButton|Going to take them on all by yourself, are you?|step17a_chapter8}}
{{CoigreachStorylineRight|step17a_chapter8|"Yes, yes I am," he snaps, and gives you a hard stare. "And don't think--"
"That's enough. It's not fair to take your anger out on [NAME], Lorcan," Sirona interjects, and she presses her head against his. "I know you're strong, and I know you want Lowen back. I want him back...but he's gone, and a fight isn't going to get us anywhere. It may very well put us in more danger."
The young hunter slumps a bit, the fight appearing to melt out of him. He lets out a sigh and meets your gaze.
"I'm sorry. Please don't hate me."
"[NAME] doesn't have it in them to hate anyone but me," Quany says tartly.}}
{{StoryBlueButton|That's not true!|step18a_chapter8}}
{{StoryGreenButton|It's not like you make it difficult|step18b_chapter8}}
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<hr>
{{CoigreachStorylineLeft|step17b_chapter8|He glares at you. "Of course it will; are you stupid? What makes you think--"
"That's enough. It's not fair to take your anger out on [NAME], Lorcan," Sirona interjects, and she presses her head against his. "I know you're strong, and I know you want Lowen back. I want him back...but he's gone, and a fight isn't going to get us anywhere. It may very well put us in more danger."
The young hunter slumps a bit, the fight appearing to melt out of him. He lets out a sigh and meets your gaze.
"I'm sorry. Please don't hate me."
"[NAME] doesn't have it in them to hate anyone but me," Quany says tartly.}}
{{StoryBlueButton|That's not true!|step18a_chapter8}}
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<hr>
{{CoigreachStorylineRight|step18a_chapter8|Looking unconvinced, he begins to move towards the entrance to the den with a gesture to Lorcan.
"Come on, pup. Pretend to help me back to my den so your mother feels like I'm being looked after."
The herbalist simply rolls her eyes and says primly, "Time for a nap, old man?"
Quany whips around, his mouth agape. You can't say you disagree. In fact, you're wondering if it even happened at all--did Sirona really just say that?
"I..." He seems caught off guard, unsure what to say. The herbalist peels her lips back in a toothy grin, which seems to pull Quany back to the present.
"You'd like that, wouldn't you. But no, I'm going to be far more useful than that. I'm going to try and come up with an idea...and nap at the same time."}}
{{StoryBlueButton|Sounds like fun|step19_chapter8}}
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<hr>
{{CoigreachStorylineLeft|step18b_chapter8|He startles you by barking out a laugh so hard that it throws him into a coughing fit.
"Touché, [NAME]," he gasps out, then clears his throat and gets a hold of himself.
"Come on, pup. Pretend to help me back to my den so your mother feels like I'm being looked after," he tells Lorcan, moving toward the entrance to the den.
The herbalist simply rolls her eyes and says primly, "Time for a nap, old man?"
Quany whips around, his mouth agape. You can't say you disagree. In fact, you're wondering if it even happened at all--did Sirona really just say that?
"I..." He seems caught off guard, unsure what to say. The herbalist peels her lips back in a toothy grin, which seems to pull Quany back to the present.
"You'd like that, wouldn't you? But no, I'm going to be far more useful than that. I'm going to try and come up with an idea...and nap at the same time."}}
{{StoryBlueButton|Sounds like fun|step19_chapter8}}
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<hr>
{{CoigreachStorylineRight|step19_chapter8|Sirona snorts softly, and Quany pointedly ignores you.
"Be careful out there." Like a switch, his sour, teasing demeanor becomes serious, and he looks back and forth between the two of you.
"I have no idea what they're capable of. Stay close."
With that, he turns and walks stiffly out of the den, limping on his paw again.
A cold nose pokes your shoulder, and you turn to the smiling herbalist.
"Let's go back to your territory together. It will be safer that way. I think we all need some time to come to terms with this and prepare for whatever is about to come." Her face darkens and becomes troubled.}}
{{CoigreachStorylineLeft|step20_chapter8|With Sirona at your side, you make the trek back home. Her company is not unwelcome as the whispers and lights dance at the edge of your senses, haunting you the whole way home}}
{{StoryBlueButton|Return home|step1_chapter9}}
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<hr>
{{StorylineNotice|The story will continue on '''November 28th'''.}}
<hr>
</div>
</div>
Revision as of 19:39, 30 October 2024
The Coigreach event is focused on a large storyline you can follow to dive into the lore of the event, meet new characters, and earn rewards! This month's storyline is driven through explore encounters, and you will be unable to progress in the storyline if you are not exploring when required. The story will begin on November 1st as soon as the event starts, and you can access it from the Coigreach page.
Storyline rewards are based on choices you make near the end of both parts of the storyline. The choice is clearly marked with asterisks (*), and we'll make sure to note when a choice is important on this page, as well. Rewards for completing the storyline change each year!
Table of Contents
Links not working? Sections must be expanded to jump to a subheader within them!
Since many events unfold during this storyline that would be considered spoilers to those who haven't seen them yet, we've hidden some of these character's information behind spoilers buttons. Part 2 of the storyline contains spoilers for Part 1, so these characters are also hidden. Click on the button to view the hidden information! These are hidden by default, but you can use the buttons below to toggle all spoiler images and text on and off. Character image galleries will contain all of the character's artwork, spoilers included, so proceed with caution!
The Chaorainn Pack
Maeve
Maeve is a friendly personality, searching for her mate, Lowen, who's suddenly gone missing without a trace.
Late Story Information
Maeve is Sirona's daughter-in-law and is pregnant with Lowen's pups.
Wolf
She/Her
Character Image Gallery
Sirona
Sirona is the Chaorainn Pack's herbalist. She seems worried about Maeve, and she's intent on helping you uncover the mystery of the recent disappearances.
Late Story Information
Sirona is Conall's mate and Lowen's mother.
Wolf
She/Her
Character Image Gallery
Conall
Conall is the leader of the Chaorainn Pack. An old but powerful wolf, he's respected by his packmates. Conall is concerned that Lowen's disappearance is just the tip of a much larger puzzle.
Late Story Information
Conall is Sirona's mate and Lowen's father. He disappears on his search for Lowen, assumed lured into Bronagh's den with Lowen's voice.
The player can choose to bring him back in the Part 2 of the storyline.
Wolf
He/Him
Character Image Gallery
Quany
Quany is an elder of the Chaorainn Pack, grumpy but full of wisdom. He believes he may have an idea of what's causing the mysterious events.
Late Story Information
Quany is not affected by Bronagh's calls because any wolf whom Bronagh would imitate to lure him is long dead.
Depending on player choices, Quany may sacrifice himself in Part 2 of the storyline to save Sirona from the Faelcu.
Wolf
He/Him
Character Image Gallery
Late Story Characters This section contains spoilers for later parts of Part 1 of the storyline.
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Bronagh
An ancestor of the Chaorainn Pack and subject of Quany's tales, Bronagh's restless soul has returned with the use of the trinket to find the pups she lost to the Faelcu.
After her pups began to weaken, Bronagh began to worry that the tales her elders had told her of the Faelcu were true, and that they had switched her pups out for their own. In her desperation, she left the pups in the wilderness as an offering to the Faelcu, hopeful that the offering would bring her pups back to her. However, her pups never returned, and the weak pups disappeared as well.
Bronagh couldn't accept the loss of her pups and went mad with grief. Eventually in her searches, she disappeared, and never returned.
Wolf
She/Her
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Bronagh's Mate
This male wolf, who seems to be named Cian, was Bronagh's mate, and they once had a loving bond. He never believed the stories of the Faelcu. After Bronagh left her pups in the wilderness, he turned his back on her.
Quany says that his grandfather claimed he was a descendant of Cian. If this is the case, this story occurred at least 3 generations before Quany's birth.
Wolf
He/Him
Character Image Gallery
Part 2 Storyline Characters This section contains characters from Part 2 of the storyline, which occurs shortly after Part 1 and thus includes spoilers for Part 1.
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Oonagh/Una
This female pup is under the care of Maeve! If Maeve's pups were saved in Part 1, she is named Oonagh and she is one of Maeve and Lowen's pups. If Maeve's pups were sacrificed in Part 1, her name is Una, and she is a pack pup who Maeve is pupsitting.
She has a strong personality, but ultimately caves in your presence.
Wolf
She/Her
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Malachy/Dwi
This pup is Oonagh/Una's shyer sibling! If Maeve's pups were saved in Part 1, he is a male pup named Malachy and he is one of Maeve and Lowen's pups. If Maeve's pups were sacrificed in Part 1, she is a female pup named Dwi, and she is a pack pup who Maeve is pupsitting.
Wolf
He/Him or She/Her
Character Image Gallery
Lorcan
Lorcan is the other one of Sirona's pups, and Lowen's sibling. He is determined to bring his brother and father back, but Sirona is worried for his safety. He grows a fondness of your lead wolf, and his friendly personality is comforting!
Wolf
He/Him
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Radha and Ailbhe
These lithe creatures are the Faelcu, the mysterious beings who have been luring and trapping wolves, and who manipulated Bronagh into committing the acts she did.
Powerful immortals, they want nothing to do with mortal wolves, and show no trust towards you. They abide by formal promises, Aontas, and seek retribution after a previous Aonta was broken.
Faelcu
They/Them
Character Image Gallery
Lowen
Lowen is Maeve's mate, Sirona and Conall's son, and Lorcan's brother.
The player can choose to bring him back in Part 2 of the storyline.
Wolf
He/Him
Character Image Gallery
Part 1
Part 1
Storyline steps are listed in linear order, and are not sorted based on which path or choices you take. Clicking on a button in each step will allow you to quickly jump to the next step in the story, affected by the button you pressed.
You're nearing the edge of your territory as you finish up your patrol today, and you stop for a good roll and back scratch before it's time to head back to your pack. Ah... that hits the spot. Nothing better than getting those itches out, and getting a fine coating of dirt in your fur at the same time-
A low, mournful howl hits your ears and pulls you back to the present. You look for the source, and a shape materializes in the distance as it trots closer.
A wolf-a stranger at that. You don't recognize them from any of the neighboring packs. What are they doing here?
The wolf stops abruptly, looking rather surprised to see you. Suddenly they're closing the distance between you, tail wagging eagerly.
"Oh! You! Have you seen my mate? He's quite thickset, blue eyes and a black coat. You'd recognise him by the gray mask. Goes by the name of Lowen. We're not from around here, see, but he's gone missing and I just know--"
She stops, seemingly out of breath from her rambling, and shakes herself. Who was this odd female?
"Right then. Sorry, sometimes I get ahead of myself. My name is Maeve. It's nice to meet you."
The wolf stops abruptly, looking rather surprised to see you. Suddenly they're closing the distance between you, adopting a submissive pose.
"I'm sorry, I don't mean to disturb you... it's just that I'm looking for someone, my mate. Have you seen him? He's quite thickset, blue eyes and a black coat. You'd recognise him by the gray mask. Goes by the name of Lowen. We're not from around here, see, but he's gone missing and I just know--"
She stops, seemingly out of breath from her rambling, and shakes herself. Who was this odd female?
"Lowen is a member of my pack, and my mate. He went missing several days ago without a trace, and we've been looking for him ever since. We live up in the northern foothills. We call ourselves the Chaorainn Pack. Perhaps you've heard of us?
"Lowen is a member of my pack, and my mate. He went missing several days ago without a trace, and we've been looking for him ever since. We live up in the northern foothills. We call ourselves the Chaorainn Pack."
Many wolves inhabited these lands, so it wasn't surprising that there were packs unknown to you.
"I feel like I've been over every inch of this land," she continues. "I haven't been able to find any sign, not even a faint scent. In all of my years as a scout I've never had this happen. Wolves don't just disappear..." Maeve looks deeply troubled, and you can't begin to imagine what it feels like to lose a pack member, especially a mate.
"You'd be willing to help me, truly? I know you have no duty to do so, but if you are willing I won't say no."
You nod, and she seems hopeful again.
"I'm sure we can find some way to repay you. Conall is a wise and kind leader, and always does his best to be fair. I know he would be in your debt. We all would."
Her voice falters at the end, and you hurry to distract her again.
"You know this area well, do you not? Perhaps other wolves and their packs have seen or heard something of him. Any information, however small, would help. Let's split up and see what we can find out. 10 wolves should be a good start. Someone is bound to know something."
Maeve seems to be willing it to be true, and there is true desperation in her eyes. Is this just about a lost mate?
"I'll meet you back here. Good luck, [NAME], and thank you."
Return to the story after you've asked 10 wolves in explore.
Any wolf you find in explore can be asked about Lowen for this quest, including befriend-able wolves and event encounter wolves. Wolf packs are not included.
Each wolf you ask will provide a different dialogue response, listed below.
1st Wolf
The wolf shakes their head sadly. You feel as though they want to help, but have no information for you. Instead they tell you of a similar situation in their own pack - their herbalist has been missing for two days now.
2nd Wolf
They look at you with an intense stare and ask, "We've heard howling that keeps going unanswered - could it be to do with that?" That's weird.. but maybe?
3rd Wolf
Their face crinkles in concern and they nod fervently. "Do they have puppies? We've heard crying puppies that nobody is tending to, and have been searching for them but we never seem to find them." You don't think there were puppies involved.. how odd.
4th Wolf
As you mention the missing wolf, a demoralised sigh escapes from them. "More missing wolves? We've lost two, our neighbouring pack has lost three. I hope this doesn't continue."
5th Wolf
The wolf's eyes glaze over slightly as you're explaining the situation to them, and you get the very distinct sense that they have no idea what you're talking about. You struggle to pay attention as they start babbling about a pocket of mist that appeared one night, disrupting their hunts.
6th Wolf
The wolf doesn't seem to have any interest in what you've just asked them about. Instead, they keep telling you about this strange feline creature they saw. They explain that it's small with thick fur, and they've never seen or smelled one like this before. Annoyed that this doesn't seem relevant, you continue on.
7th Wolf
The next wolf you encounter is similar to the last - near incoherent babbling about new prey they've come across, and how they're not the only ones to have found them. You plead once more for information about Lowen, but they don't have any for you.
8th Wolf
As you're explaining, the wolf seems to be staring off in the distance behind you. You turn to look, and see if you can see what they're looking at. When you see nothing, you turn back and the wolf is gone. How rude.
9th Wolf
A vacant expression appears on the wolf's face as you ask about the missing wolf, and you gather that they haven't heard of Lowen. They make some mention of strange lights appearing at dusk but when they try to follow them, they disappear.
10th Wolf
The tenth wolf you ask has more unnerving information to give you than the others. They explain that certain places they have visited have left members of their pack paralysed by fear, as if by some unknown force. You hope that Lowen hasn't been caught in one of these areas.
The story will continue in 1 rollover.
Trekking back to the edge of your territory where you first met Maeve, your brain is buzzing with everything you have learned. Mysterious lights, odd sightings, other wolves missing, strange trinkets causing visions...
"[NAME]! You came back!"
Maeve comes trotting into view with two other wolves at her heels. One is a large male with a commanding presence, and the other is a smaller female, slender and lithe and smelling faintly of herbs.
"I'd like to introduce you to Conall and Sirona. Conall is our leader, and Sirona is our herbalist. I asked them to join us. They've been helping search for Lowen and are just as worried as I am."
"It's good to put a face to the wolf that Maeve has told us about. We appreciate your help." Conall has a deep, but soft, voice. His muzzle is scarred and whitened with age, yet his eyes are as sharp as any wolf half his age. He is not one to cross, and you can see why his pack respects him.
"I fear Lowen is not the only problem we have to deal with, either. I have heard strange things of late, even before he went missing. I swear there are herbs and plants that I've come across that I don't recognize. At first I thought I was just crazy, but now..." Sirona chimes in and looks troubled, unconsciously pawing at the dirt.
"You're not crazy, Sirona," Maeve says gently, and licks her ear comfortingly. "I have a feeling [NAME] has news to share."
You tell them of the other wolves that you encountered in your quest to search for Lowen. They spoke of weird noises coming from the undergrowth and of lights dashing out of sight as soon as they turned to look. Pockets of mist rolled across the land, muting all sound in their midst. There was more than one instance of strange visions of a howling wolf, crying puppies, and the feeling of deep terror and sadness. You had also heard tales of caves appearing just out of sight and never coming closer, no matter how much distance was covered. All sorts of different fauna that were not native to this land had also begun to appear, and Sirona was not the only wolf who had noticed it. From what you had been told, it seemed Lowen was not the only wolf who had gone missing, either. Members of other packs had disappeared without a trace, leaving confusion and uncertainty in their wake.
Once you finish, no one says anything for a very long time. Conall looks troubled, Maeve seems confused, and Sirona looks oddly thoughtful.
Conall is the first to break the silence, and he bows his head gratefully.
"Thank you for telling us this and helping our search. Lowen's disappearance seems like it's just a small part of a bigger puzzle that this land is facing. I was hoping it would be something simple, but I should have known better. Life is never simple."
He shakes out his fur and gently nudges Maeve's shoulder, pulling her out of her head. "Come, Maeve. We have done enough for today. You need to rest, and the pack is waiting on us."
"Conall, don't you think we should--" Maeve protests.
"He's right, Maeve," Sirona interjects firmly, and gives her a pointed look.
"You need rest. Even if you think you don't, I'm starving and I have some pups to check in on. Eidheann will have my hide if I don't make sure her pups are exactly where they need to be in their development." Sirona snorts in amusement, and Maeve brightens.
"Oh yes! We mustn't keep them waiting, you're right." Maeve turns and looks at you, tail wagging. "We'll see you soon, I hope?"
"Give us some time to digest this, and speak with our pack. I believe Sirona will also want to consult our elders and see what they have to say," Conall says, and looks at you kindly. "Make sure you get some rest as well, [NAME]. Meet us back here in 3 rollovers and we will see what can be done. Farewell, friend."
With that, Conall turns and trots off in the direction they came, Maeve and Sirona following in his wake.
Come back in 3 rollovers to speak to the Chaorainn Pack.
The story will continue in 3 rollovers.
The past 3 days have been restless and full of worry. You've encountered even more strange things, and without any idea of how to deal with them, you've felt lost. Now it was time to meet Conall, Sirona, and Maeve again and hopefully get some answers.
You trot to the edge of your territory and sniff the air expectantly. There! Sirona's tangy herbal smell greets you before you see her come into view, and you're surprised when she's the only one that's come. Where were the others?
"Ah, you did remember us, [NAME]. Things have only gotten worse." Sirona looks tired, and meets your eyes with drained, baggy ones.
Rolling hills stretch as far as you can see, and it seems as though she's making her way closer to a mountain range you've never seen before. Soon the hills give way to dense forest and the ground begins to slope steeply. Is she taking you all the way up to the top of the mountains?
As if noticing your hesitation, she slows and matches your pace.
"We're not far now. We travel all around this area but we make our home at the top of this foothill. It gives us protection and we can see trouble coming before it ever sees us."
She sighs and is silent for a moment before answering you as if she's gathering her thoughts.
"A few days ago Maeve left without a word to anyone. She's been searching for Lowen nonstop, but she always told someone where she was going. This time she slipped away unnoticed. I was able to track her as far as the edge of our territory, but then the trail became stale and I was forced to turn back."
The slope is beginning to level out again, and you can smell the scents of many wolves mixing up ahead. Sirona stops and meets your gaze, continuing her story.
"When she didn't return, Conall decided to take a few wolves and go and find her. Neither Conall nor the other wolves have been seen since," she says gravely. "Like Lowen, I think something must have happened. This time I think I have an idea of what it could be, though."
"Come-the wolf you're going to meet is one of our elders. He goes by the name of Quany."
The trees here are very old and stretch high into the sky. They give good shelter but their leaves also block much of the sun, making everything around you dark and quiet. The den site of the pack is well protected from the elements between the old trees and the dense brush that covers the outside of the clearing. Caves have been dug out between the roots of the trees and you see heads popping out from them with curious eyes. The sense of being watched makes your pelt prickle and you're careful not to let it show. It wouldn't do any good to appear anything other than friendly.
Sirona leads you towards the far end of the clearing where one of the biggest trees stands silently guarding. The cave among its roots is well made and it looks like the brush has been encouraged to grow heavily around the trunk to provide as much protection from the elements as possible.
A grizzled, shaggy head is resting peacefully on the lip of the cave and as you approach, one soft gray eye opens and stares you down.
"Quany, I'm sorry to disturb you," Sirona greets him, bowing her head respectfully. "This is [NAME], the one we spoke of at length before."
"Well now. I suppose you're not a half bad looking wolf. Bit scrawny, maybe."
Quany yawns and gets to his paws with a stretch before repositioning himself outside of the cave with a small grunt.
"My bones hurt so I'm not moving. If that suits you, you may sit and hear what I have to say."
Quany looks at you intently. "Sirona has explained to me what's been going on. You've had these strange encounters and seen these visions yourself, yes? You're not just believing what other wolves have told you?"
"Well now. I suppose you're not a half bad looking wolf. Bit scrawny, maybe. Arrogant as well, looks like."
Quany yawns and gets to his paws with a stretch before repositioning himself outside of the cave with a small grunt.
"My bones hurt so I'm not moving. If that suits you, you may sit and hear what I have to say."
Quany looks at you intently. "Sirona has explained to me what's been going on. You've had these strange encounters and seen these visions yourself, yes? You're not just believing what other wolves have told you?"
"I don't know, are you?" Quany growls back in response. He clearly doesn't appreciate your rudeness. Sirona looks shocked by your reaction, and stays very quiet.
"Good. All too often the young like to exaggerate things for attention. But I believe you, and I trust Sirona. She may have told you that I may know what's going on, but I cannot guarantee that I'm right. I can only tell you what I know from my own experience."
"I think you're right, Quany," Sirona replies, and he barks out a laugh.
"Your belief in me is kind. But we won't know for certain until our friend here goes out and confirms it."
His eyes comb the clearing, making sure no one is eavesdropping.
"This story is no longer told to pups, but my grandfather told it to me. Too scary for pups these days, apparently," he sniffs indignantly, then continues on: "He spoke of a wolf from our pack long ago that fell into the trap of desperation which led her to do an awful thing. I will try and tell it objectively, but just know that this was a story that was told with disdain."
"A young mother had two pups with a beloved mate. They were happy and healthy, and all seemed well. As time went on, something happened to them - just what I don't know, but they grew weak. The mother tried her best to care for them and give them all that she could, but they did not get better and she felt hopeless. Someone started to tell stories about the Faelcu..."
"Will you let me finish, pup?" Quany growls, clearly irritated by your comments. He takes a moment before he continues, his eyes hard as they refuse to leave yours. He composes himself.
"Well, they're like us... But they're not. They try to trick us, you see. They're changelings. They'll take our puppies and switch them with their own, forcing unknowing parents to bring up their offspring in the mortal realm, while ours get lost in theirs. They use us and our resources so their children can thrive and have a mortal experience. Supposed to be good for them. Who knows what they do with ours."
"They're like us... But they're not. They try to trick us, you see. They're changelings. They'll take our puppies and switch them with their own, forcing unknowing parents to bring up their offspring in the mortal realm, while ours get lost in theirs. They use us and our resources so their children can thrive and have a mortal experience. Supposed to be good for them. Who knows what they do with ours."
"This mother... she was desperate. Her puppies were getting weak. It seemed so obvious."
Quany pauses for a moment to catch his breath, then continues the story: "This happens a lot, so I'm told, with Faelcu offspring. The changelings don't always thrive, and need special care. It's one of the telltale signs that your puppies have been replaced. That and a personality change, of course, but I'm sure you know as I do that when they're that tiny most puppies don't have much of a personality."
"She grew maddened and more and more certain that the stories were true, that her puppies had been switched. Her mate disagreed, but she wouldn't hear of it. Nobody could understand why the puppies had grown so weak. She was adamant this was true. So one day..."
He pauses, taking in a low breath.
"She took them out to the wilderness, far away from the pack. She left them there, with an offering to the Faelcu, begging them to take them back and return her own puppies to her."
"I think we both know those puppies didn't come back to her. And when she returned, the changelings were gone too. All of them were gone."
His expression falls, clearly saddened by the story.
"Her mate found out, and he turned his back on her. He refused to believe the stories of the Faelcu. She took this to be the reason, you see, the reason that they hadn't given her the puppies back. She felt they'd angered them, and in revenge the Faelcu made sure her puppies would be lost forever."
"She couldn't come to terms with it. She was maddened, completely lost in her grief. She searched high and low for the puppies. She stopped eating, talking... existing. Nothing was more important than finding the puppies, and she searched high and low. She never stopped."
His expression turns grave.
"None of her pack saw her again. They tried to find her, and some of them said they did, but that she was different. Changed. Not the same as before. Lost to them all."
"Unfortunately I have reason to believe it is true, at least in part. My grandfather was insistent that this was something that actually happened generations ago, and that he was descended from Cian. While it's true we elders tend to make things up for our own amusement to entertain the pups, he remained steadfast in his belief that the tale was true even when I was grown. I have no reason to believe that he was lying."
"From what you've told me, these visions that wolves seem to be experiencing tie too closely to the story for it to be a coincidence. What I don't know is how they are seeing these visions, or why. The task falls to you to figure it out."
Sirona has a thoughtful look on her face, and Quany pokes her shoulder with his nose.
"Share your thoughts, Sirona. You are wise beyond your years. What is it?"
"I was just thinking... Wolves can't just be seeing visions on their own randomly. I know there are things we can't explain in this world, but there has to be something causing them. Like how certain herbs can cause hallucinations. Maybe that's it! These strange plants I've been seeing are not native to this land. Who knows what they could do to a wolf?"
Quany is tilting his head thoughtfully, and nodding as she finishes.
"You could be right, young herbalist. You know more than any in the pack about plant life. The natural order of this world is cause and effect; things don't just happen, there is always an explanation."
"Something is causing these visions, and we have to find out what. Perhaps it is something as simple as a bad reaction to an herb!"
Sirona is excited now and on her paws, tail wagging. She looks brighter than before and there is a determined look in her eye.
"[NAME]! Can you seek out any wolf that has had visions and find out where? There has to be some sort of clue wherever they encountered them. If you find anything, bring it back here. Just... be careful, alright?
Encounter wolves in explore and see what they have to say about the visions. Maybe you can find a hint on where to look next. Come back when you have found a hint.
While exploring after the previous step, you will come across new encounters that provide hints about which biome you must explore in in order to progress the story. The wolves that you find and the accompanying text differ depending on the biome you find them in. All of these encounters are listed in the Hint Encounters section of the Coigreach Explore Encounters page.
One of these hint wolves will suggest you explore in a biome that you have unlocked. Exploring in the given biome will result in a trinket encounter. The encounter you receive to collect the trinket piece will be randomized from the list available in the Trinket Encounters section of the Coigreach Explore Encounters page.
You make your way back to Sirona and Quany with what you found while looking for clues: a small trinket that glows softly, emanating a dark energy.
"That's so beautiful... What is it?" Sirona asks, unable to take her eyes off of the trinket.
"I know what it is," Quany interjects, stepping closer to you and looking closely at the object.
Quany is completely silent as he regards the object, taking what seems an incredibly long time to decide what he wants to say, before he lunges forward. He grabs you firmly by the scruff of your neck, forcing you down to the ground before you have a chance to even react.
You growl immediately and start to thrash, but your attempts are futile. You are lowered until your nose is pushed up against the object, causing it to tingle suddenly, a warm--no, hot--flood rushing through your bones, you feel like you're falling, everything is fading... It's getting dark... What's happening?!
You blink your eyes a few times, waiting for everything to settle. It seems the whole scene has changed. You're not with Sirona and Quany anymore. You're somewhere else entirely. Everything around you is strange to you... and yet... yet, it feels like home.
You blink again, and realise you are staring back into a pair of gentle, kind eyes. It's your mate. He leans in, nuzzling you, and you feel yourself melt with happiness.
Your sight blurs and twists, and suddenly it's darker in the cave and the other wolf is gone. The puppies are wailing and refusing to nurse as they attempt to waddle around on their poorly developed legs. They are no longer round and fluffy, and their weight hangs on their skinny frames. What happened to your beautiful babies? Why weren't they thriving? You curl yourself around them, attempting to keep them warm as best you can and encourage them to nurse. They continue to wail through the night.
You splutter as you tell them both what you just experienced. It was like you were someone else, living a different life. It had started out so lovely, so gentle, and then changed so suddenly.
Quany is silent for a long time, and Sirona looks too worried to speak. Finally, Quany regards you.
"What you saw was a memory, an echo of the past. I've heard of these before... I wonder..." he trails off, lost in thought.
"Fascinating," the elder murmurs, studying the trinket piece he'd previously forced you to touch with your nose, ignoring your question entirely.
"Leave this with me, if you wouldn't mind, [NAME]. I think there will be more pieces to find. Take some rest now, and come back later. Come, Sirona. I want you to investigate this with me."
After taking some time to rest, you return to where you last met Quany and Sirona. They are here already, murmuring something amongst themselves that you can't quite make out.
You get closer to them, but you can't seem to see any sign of the trinket you left behind. They also don't seem to notice your approach.
At once, both wolves snap round to face you. Sirona's face is full of smiles, and she appears genuinely pleased to see you. Quany is much harder to make out--any feelings he has towards you seem to be being kept quite firmly to himself.
"We've been studying the trinket," Sirona explains, her tail wagging slowly. "Quany thinks there are more of them. This can't be the only one."
"Yes, [NAME], more," Quany replies with a pointed look, as if expecting you to protest. "As you know, there's been more than one instance of these visions occurring, and it's unlikely they were all caused by one little trinket. This land is vast and home to many wolves; they can't all have come across this trinket where you found it."
He gives you a moment to process this before he continues.
"The wolves who have reported visions have also described them differently than the one you experienced. Some talk of a windy hillside, while others insist they were frantically digging and searching. The memory must be broken up into different pieces--four, to be exact. There are four other unique visions from yours, for five total. It will be up to you to find those other four."
Quany's eyes light up at your enthusiasm. If you're not mistaken, it looks like he's trying to hide a smile.
"Don't get ahead of yourself, [NAME], but I have faith in you. Sirona and I are going to study this one further. Return to use when you have found the others."
Quany's expression remains cool as he regards you. "I have every faith in you, [NAME]. Sirona and I are going to study this one further. Return to us when you have found the others."
Return to Quany and Sirona when you have found the other trinkets. You should explore for clues!
Players must find a total of four (4) more Trinket Pieces in explore for this section of the story.
Trinket Pieces 1 and 4: Obtained from a battle opponent. You are given two options, Persuade or Attack. Persuading has a chance to give you the trinket piece, but also a chance to fail. If you choose Attack and then win the battle, you are guaranteed to get the trinket piece.
Trinket Pieces 2 and 3: You may come across a Hint while exploring if you are not exploring in the correct biome. Once you start exploring in the correct biome, you'll come across trinket encounters that have a chance to drop a trinket piece. You can find a list of all trinket encounters in the Trinket Encounters section of the Coigreach Explore Encounters page.
You return to the clearing with haste, clutching all four trinkets proudly in your jaws as you approach the pair, who seem like they have been waiting for you for some time.
Quany steps forward first, his eyes not on you but on the objects you hold. He takes them from you without a word and lays them gingerly on the ground.
Sirona gives you a grateful look, but seems worried and lets Quany inspect them without interruption.
They both remain silent, with Quany looking over all the trinkets. The energy is as heavy as when you first found them, but all together like this, it seems to fade.
The elder leans down, pressing his nose up against one of the trinkets. His body stiffens, and you wonder if he is experiencing a memory, like you had the first time.
"Nothing is happening," Quany growls in frustration.
Sirona approaches slowly, and carefully she leans down to inspect the trinkets, but is mindful not to touch her nose against the pieces. Perhaps she's worried about experiencing a memory. Is she frightened of them?
Quany seems deeply troubled, and he falls silent as he studies the pieces.
Sirona sighs and turns to you.
"I think it's time for you to head home and rest. We've done enough for now, and have enough to think about. Come back later and we'll start fresh."
Feeling well rested, you bid your pack farewell and set off back to the territory of the Chaorainn pack. Your thoughts are distracted, and you find yourself stumbling over your paws as the bushes rattle ominously beside you. A flash of red and a familiar face cause you to backpedal in surprise.
"[NAME]! Oh it's you, truly? Just the wolf I need!"
"Somewhere close by, I'm sure of it. I heard him calling to me. I was tracking his voice when I ran into you. Didn't you hear it? Lowen! Lowen, can you hear me? Call out again!"
She turns and calls into the trees several times, but there is no reply. You also hadn't heard anything until Maeve appeared. Maybe she was mistaken...
Out of the corner of your eye, you see floating lights dance between the trees, quickly disappearing when you turn to look dead on. Your fur rises, and you have an odd feeling. The birds have gone quiet and the gentle breeze has stilled; it's as if the world is holding its breath. You're not sure if it's your mind playing tricks, but suddenly the depths between the trees look darker and more ominous than before. Maeve seems oblivious, still calling out for Lowen.
"Well, he was here," she mumbles, turning back to you. "You do believe me, don't you?"
"Yes, yes that could be! That's a good idea, [NAME]. Sirona will know what to do!" She dashes away in the direction of the foothills, and you find yourself running after her.
Maeve is hopeful, but you're worried. The lights and the way the land was holding its breath... Something was off. Maeve seemed tied to it, because you hadn't noticed anything strange before she appeared. You hadn't heard Lowen either, but she was convinced she had.
There were none of those trinkets around like you had found before, and Maeve was quite lucid. The visions caused by the trinkets seemed different than this. But if so, what was going on?
Maeve narrows her eyes at you. "Save it, [NAME]. We have to stay positive right now. I know he was here. I heard him."
All of a sudden, she lets out a gasp. "Maybe he's hurt! Oh no... My poor Lowen! We need to tell Sirona! She'll know what to do!"
She dashes away in the direction of the foothills before you can respond, and you find yourself running after her.
Maeve is hopeful, but you're worried. The lights and the way the land was holding its breath... Something was off. Maeve seemed tied to it, because you hadn't noticed anything strange before she appeared. You hadn't heard Lowen either, but she was convinced she had.
There were none of those trinkets around like you had found before, and Maeve was quite lucid. The visions caused by the trinkets seemed different than this. But if so, what was going on?
Soon you're padding into the clearing, and you make sure to stand off to the side as Sirona practically tackles Maeve in her exuberance in greeting her pack mate.
"Maeve! Maeve, you're alright!" She briefly touches noses with her friend, and then she's sniffing and inspecting her all over.
"You're not hurt are you? Have you eaten? You know you have to keep your strength up--"
Maeve cuts her off with a sharp look, and Sirona clamps her jaws shut sheepishly.
"Well... not exactly," Maeve admits. "I've been searching for him for a few days now, and then suddenly I heard him. He was calling to me! I tried to follow his voice but kept getting lost. That's when I bumped into [NAME]. They convinced me to come back and find you after Lowen stopped calling to me. He could be hurt and need our help! You'll come, won't you Sirona?"
Maeve is looking at her pleadingly and Sirona seems troubled, but nods.
"Of course I will. But first, I'm making you rest for a bit."
Maeve looks at you sharply. "It doesn't matter. It's not Sirona's business to share." She turns back to Sirona, clearly not willing to tell you anything else. She changes the subject: "I've found him, Sirona. Lowen!"
Sirona's eyes widen. "You've seen him? Where is he?"
"I haven't seen him," Maeve corrects. "I've been searching for him for a few days now, and then suddenly I heard him. He was calling to me! I tried to follow his voice but kept getting lost. That's when I bumped into [NAME]. They convinced me to come back and find you after Lowen stopped calling to me. He could be hurt and need our help! You'll come, won't you Sirona?"
Maeve is looking at her pleadingly and Sirona seems troubled, but nods.
"Of course I will. But first, I'm making you rest for a bit."
Sirona watches Maeve slope away until she disappears out of sight. She turns to you, her face full of relief.
"Thank you for finding her and bringing her back, Desert Primrose. She may not want to admit it, but I know she's grateful to be home. She needs to rest--I'm sure she hasn't slept," Sirona sighs, and looks at you questioningly.
You follow her to Quany's den, and he's sitting outside of it and pushing the trinkets around with a long claw. At first he doesn't notice your approach, and then Sirona clears her throat which causes him to startle for a second before composing himself.
"Ah [NAME], I didn't scare you off with Faelcu tales, I see."
He looks amused at his own joke, and taps a claw near the trinkets.
"Come look at this. They each seem to have their own shape, and if I squint it looks like they could almost go together somehow. A puzzle, if you will. But I've been staring at them so long my head is all fuzzy, and I can't make sense of it anymore," he says with a sigh.
In order to proceed, the player must solve a puzzle. Drag and drop trinket pieces to form a complete shape.You can rotate the pieces, but only if they have already been dragged into one of the square slots.
Once the puzzle has been completed, the gemstones will glow, and you will be able to continue onto the next step. The image below shows what the puzzle looks like once completed.
The pieces fit together with a small snick and you step back in surprise as the finished form begins to glow softly. Sirona and Quany lean close beside you, just as entranced as you are.
"I'm not sure what this is. It looks like some sort of old symbol. It's like the pieces are knotted together. Sirona?"
"I've never seen it either. What does it mean? Do you think it's dangerous?"
The new voice makes you jerk your head up. You leap to your paws at the sight of a ghostly, misty form standing before you.
Sirona's hackles raise and she snarls, while Quany grumbles low in his throat.
Before you stands an elegant, leggy wolf with a smooth appearance, almost too perfect. Her eyes seem to stare deep into your soul, and you can't look away.
You can't quite believe your eyes. Is this some kind of apparition, a spirit? She appears almost see through and yet here she was--talking to you, no less.
She begins to approach, her movement making it seem like she was gliding. Her eyes are fixed on the trinkets, which thrum with energy.
Quany steps forward, as if instinctively posturing to protect both you and Sirona. He mutters under his breath, "Bronagh... yes... the mother from the stories..."
He doesn't respond to you, instead keeping eye contact with the creature. Despite his intimidating appearance, Bronagh doesn't seem fazed at all by Quany's approach. She turns to regard him, staring at him as if he was simply insignificant.
"You won't stop me, Cian..."
Quany glares at her with undisguised malice.
"I'm not your mate, spirit," Quany growls. "Stay back. I won't warn you again."
He's a bristly old wolf, but you've not seen this side of him before. He must have been formidable in his younger years.
You look down at the completed trinket puzzle on the ground, and your eyes widen in surprise.
The twisted knot is vibrating fiercely, the motion so strong it gives off a loud humming noise, one that seems to increase in volume the closer you get to it. Dark energy glows from the piece like a billow of thin, black smoke. It seems to react very strongly to Bronagh's presence.
What feels like a thunderclap cracks through your body the second your nose touches the trinkets. Electricity fizzes in your muscles, veins and fur, and everything fades to black. Bronagh, Sirona and Quany are all gone. Everything you know is gone.
Replaced with... too many things at once.
Noises ranging from muttered voices, to screaming, to shrill howls, to the faintest of whispers, speak out all at once. They're so scrambled you can't interpret any of them.
Scenes shoot past your vision, so fast they are all a blur, impossible to make out.
You can't hear your voice even as you try to call out. It's as if you have been strangled and are unable to speak, and everything in the world around you is enveloping you, overwhelming you with too much information at once.
Eventually, the information starts to slow. Scenes begin to form in such a way that you are able to see and understand them.
The memory from before plays again, each scene slightly too fast, but you recognise the puppies nestled against your side, and the shock of their change in the next.
The male wolf from before is standing above you, looking tired and uncertain. Another wolf comes into your den, offering herbs for the puppies, telling you that you must eat them to increase your milk.
The herbs are bitter, but you oblige, eager to try anything to help your precious little ones.
With a loud whoosh, you are transported to the next vision.
This time you are somewhere else. Heat radiates down on your back and as you look up, you realise you are outside, with the sun beaming on you. Gods, it feels glorious. Inside the den you can hear the faint cries of tiny puppies, but you're so tired, just so tired...
You feel the cold, wet nose of another wolf nudging you gently. It's the same one that gave you those herbs. She's standing over you now, muttering something.
Faelcu this, changeling that, and didn't you think this was possible? Oh, you don't know... Doesn't she see that you need some rest?
The changes between the visions seem to become more violent, and you take a moment to catch your breath.
You look up, eyes blinking to adjust to the new scene, currently bathed in moonlight. The weak puppies from before have been brought here--by you, you assume--and are tucked safely in a thicket of taller grass.
Yes! Now the Faelcu could come and take them back. It all makes sense. You just need to let them know you're ready to make the trade.
You didn't even need to close your eyes this time for the vision to change, and your howl echoes as the scene before you changes.
Panic and grief floods you suddenly as your eyes search the thicket for any trace of the puppies--your puppies, which are meant to have been returned to you by now.
You search frantically, tearing at the clumps of grass, digging in shallow holes, howling out challenges to the Faelcu for so long that your voice grows hoarse.
A figure appears on the horizon and approaches you quickly. His scent is familiar, comforting. You turn to him, but his face is full of horror.
You're too slow to react, but Sirona is leaping to shove him out of the way as the spirit makes contact with them both.
A strange sound comes from Sirona's muzzle, and she appears to have stopped breathing. Her eyes bulge as she collapses, gasping and clawing at the ground as she tries to get air.
Quany is stumbling toward her, shaking his head and pawing at his muzzle. He looks dazed, but unharmed.
You leap to Sirona's side, determined to aid her. She's still struggling, and Quany puts a heavy paw behind her head to hold her still.
"Her jaw! Get her jaw open!"
How the heck are you supposed to do that? You look at Quany in confusion, and with a growl of irritation he takes a hold of the loose skin below her jowls and begins to tug.
As gently as you can, you put the top of her muzzle into your mouth and give a firm tug. Then another, and another, until finally--pop and her locked jaw is released. She's gasping--no, swallowing---air like a fish out of water, and lays there trembling.
"Sirona, you're alright. Just concentrate on breathing. Take easy, slow breaths. Don't try to move just yet. There you go," Quany encourages her, and the frightened look in her eyes slowly fades.
Of course, Quany is over here worried about Sirona when he doesn't look too hot himself. Sirona took the brunt of it, but Bronagh's spirit had gotten him, too.
Too concerned with Sirona to be outraged by your ignorance, Quany reaches a paw up to the top of her muzzle, using whatever strength he has to prise the rest of her jaw open.
A small pop--and her locked jaw is released. She's gasping--no, swallowing---air like a fish out of water, and lays there trembling.
"Sirona, you're alright. Just concentrate on breathing. Take easy, slow breaths. Don't try to move just yet. There you go," Quany encourages her, and the frightened look in her eyes slowly fades.
Of course, Quany is over here worried about Sirona when he doesn't look too hot himself. Sirona took the brunt of it, but Bronagh's spirit had gotten him, too.
"I'll be fine. I've had worse from pups younger than you."
The joke falls flat as he licks Sirona's ear comfortingly, and his eyes travel around the now empty area.
"Where did she go? And where's that blasted trinket?"
There's no sign of the spirit anywhere, and the trinket is gone. You were so worried about Sirona that you hadn't noticed the spirit's disappearance. The trinket seemed powerful, and now she had it...
"No idea, but it can't be good. That trinket seems to be a part of her and any wolf with eyes can see that it's powerful." Quany looks at you in earnest. "We have to find her, [NAME]. Well, you have to--I don't have the strength to go on a long trek, and Sirona can barely sit up."
The herbalist has gotten her breath back by this point and is sitting upright, but heavily leaning on Quany. She looks exhausted.
"I'd focus on the caves," Sirona says with a rasp, and you wince. "She... she's a spirit. She won't be out in plain sight. She will keep to the shadows and stay as secluded as she can. You know, like all of the stories Quany tells to scare the pups away from the dark caves." A light smile tugs at her muzzle and you look at Quany expectantly.
Quany huffs and rolls his eyes. "Very funny. But she does have a point," he admits. "Caves are a good bet. Search all of the ones you can find, no matter how big or how small. She's out there, and we're going to track her down if it's the last thing we do."
Find and explore 5 caves, and then return to Quany and Sirona.
For this part of the story, explore during Dusk or Night, following wisps into caves. After you've explored 4 caves, the 5th cave you explore will lead to the special encounter below.
The final chamber is... unmistakeable! The energy in this room is so heavy your chest hurts, with the darkness of the cave blistering away into the green preternatural glow the chamber holds. Stones with the same carvings stand in a circular fashion, with a singular pillar of rocks placed right in the middle. Skulls lay atop them--a pair-- and present quite and eerie display. Without a doubt, you are certain this is the right place!
Return to the story to let Quany and Sirona know that you've found her lair.
"That's good news, [NAME]. Let's rest, and then we will face her after. We will need all of our strength." Quany bids you farewell, and goes to curl up in his cave. Sirona was gone when you returned, presumably already asleep after her encounter. It was time for you to get some sleep, too.
The world is quiet and still as you leave your pack to meet Sirona and Quany. As you approach the den site, you can hear loud arguing ahead. What is going on?
You break into the clearing, and Maeve is pacing back and forth in front of Sirona, angrily snapping at her. As usual Sirona is the picture of calm, but her eyes are drawn and her shoulders are a bit hunched. She must be exhausted.
"I must go! You aren't leaving here without me, Sirona!"
Maeve whips around and looks emboldened by your presence.
"[NAME] listens to me, even if you don't! Sirona told me you're going to find out what happened to Lowen. I have to go with you!"
Sirona's eyes meet yours from behind Maeve, and it's clear how she wants you to reply. You wonder though... doesn't she have a right to find out what happened to Lowen? Yet as she paces around the clearing you notice that she's not the steadiest on her paws, and seems to walk heavily. Was she fit to go out and potentially put herself in danger?
You hang back and decide to watch the scene play out instead--after all, who were you to intervene in this dispute? However, your presence is quickly noticed and Maeve whips round, looking emboldened.
"[NAME] listens to me, even if you don't!" she growls. "Sirona told me you're going to find out what happened to Lowen. I have to go with you!"
Sirona's eyes meet yours from behind Maeve, and it's clear how she wants you to reply. You wonder though... doesn't she have a right to find out what happened to Lowen? Yet as she paces around the clearing you notice that she's not the steadiest on her paws, and seems to walk heavily. Was she fit to go out and potentially put herself in danger?
"That's right! See, [NAME] understands. Please, Sirona. I promise I'll be careful," she begs, and Sirona sighs. She holds Maeve's gaze for a moment, her eyes sad, and you can see how conflicted she is.
"Promise me, Maeve. Whatever happens out there... don't do anything reckless. I've already lost my son. I can't lose you, too," she chokes out.
Wait a minute. Lowen is her son?
Maeve's expression softens, and she nuzzles Sirona. "I won't, Sirona. I promise I won't leave you alone."
Sirona looks like she wants to say something, but Quany is ambling toward the three of you from his cave and looks impatient.
"If you're finished arguing, we'd best get a move on."
"If you think I'm not going to come, [NAME], you're crazy. You can't stop me. I have to find him."
Sirona turns to address Maeve. She seems oddly conflicted, and her eyes have become sad.
"Promise me, Maeve. Whatever happens out there... don't do anything reckless. I've already lost my son. I can't lose you, too," she chokes out.
Wait a minute. Lowen is her son?
Maeve's face crumples. "Oh, Sirona... I'll be careful, I promise. I don't want to lose you, either." She nuzzles the herbalist, shooting you a sharp look out of the corner of her eye. Clearly her tenderness is only for Sirona. You are still in the doghouse.
Sirona opens her jaws to say something, but Quany is ambling toward the three of you from his cave and looks impatient.
"If you're finished arguing, we'd best get a move on."
You lead them to the location of the cave you saw Bronagh in, and the closer you get, the more still the air is. It's eerily quiet, and the only noises you hear are the soft breaths of your companions. You turn a bend, and a dark, deep cave swallows the rocky cliff.
You can't see anything past the mouth, but the darkness is sinister and your pelt prickles as the air seems to crackle with electricity. There's something otherworldly inhabiting this place--of that you are certain.
You quickly spin and look all around you, wondering where those whispered words came from. Quany, Sirona, and Maeve are looking around, too. Had they also heard the voice?
"Mother is here, just a few steps my love..."
"Conall? Is that you?" Sirona calls out, and you look at her in surprise. How could she think it was Conall? It was clearly Bronagh's voice.
"Lowen, at last! I knew you'd come back!" Maeve goes to move toward the cave, but Quany blocks her.
"Don't move, Maeve," he growls, and she blinks up at him in confusion.
"Maeve heard Lowen calling to her, and those lights were around then, too. Now they're here again but we're all hearing voices? That can't be a coincidence."
Quany narrows his eyes, as if he's looking for more of the lights.
"Is that how she's doing this? Using the lights to lure wolves in?"
"It must be," Sirona reasons. "A wolf wouldn't follow a spirit. But they'd certainly follow the voice of a loved one calling out to them for help."
"That doesn't answer the question of where the wolves are though!" Maeve growls, and stalks up to the cave entrance.
Your pleas fall on deaf ears, and soon Maeve is at the front of the cave, calling out to the spirit defiantly.
"Bronagh!" Maeve's challenge is full of grief for her lost mate and you can feel your heart breaking for her. "You give Lowen back! He has nothing to give you!"
The darkness at the mouth of the cave seems to move, and the misty form of Bronagh materializes.
"They are here... Yes, I know they are..."
"What do you mean they're here?" Maeve snarls. "Do you have Lowen locked up in there?"
"Bronagh!" Maeve's challenge is full of grief for her lost mate and you can feel your heart breaking for her. "You give Lowen back! He has nothing to give you!"
The darkness at the mouth of the cave seems to move, and the misty form of Bronagh materializes.
"They are here... Yes, I know they are..."
"What do you mean they're here?" Maeve snarls. "Do you have Lowen locked up in there?"
Maeve lets out a frustrated noise and begins tearing at the ground. Sirona hurries to her side and coaxes her back a few feet, anxious to not let her get too close to the spirit.
"She won't stop until she has her puppies," Quany states, and shakes his head. "But we can't give them to her. We don't have them either."
Sirona opens her muzzle to speak, but then shuts it again, as if hesitant to voice her thoughts.
"It's not what I want to do.. but I don't see that we have another choice."
"We can't do that to a mother," Maeve says quietly, and her eyes are sharp. "Those puppies would be gone forever."
Sirona shakes her head. "We don't know that. She wouldn't risk killing her puppies, so it doesn't make sense that she would kill the wolves she's tricked. They have to be going somewhere don't they?"
Quany has a thoughtful look on his face as he considers her proposal. "The Faelcu have their world, and we have ours... but Bronagh is not of either world. It's like she's suspended between both."
Quany shakes his head. "Mortal wolves can't access the spiritual plane, and they also can't go to the Faelcu realm unless taken there by the Faelcu. So it stands to reason that if the wolves are just up and disappearing, they must be trapped between them somehow."
Maeve perks up at this comment. "So then they aren't dead? They can be rescued?"
He takes a deep sigh. "I--"
"I know you're there. Come back to me."
Bronagh's voice echoing from the cave pulls your attention back to the problem at hand.
Quany sighs again. "[NAME] is right. We can't focus on what ifs right now--we need to stop her from taking more wolves and destroying more families."
Maeve moans softly and sinks to the ground in despair. Sirona nuzzles her gently, trying to comfort her.
"We'll find them, Maeve. One day we'll find them. You must trust me--I won't give up on either of them, and neither should you." Her words are encouraging, but you get the sense that they aren't just for show. She's determined to find a way somehow, and if that's what they both needed to believe, then so be it.
Quany turns to you. "I know this is a difficult ask, [NAME]. But our pack is small, and we need to give her two puppies in order to trick her for the good of all wolves and this land. Would you be willing to give her two? They could be yours, or maybe you could trade for some from another pack... You'll never see them again, but I don't doubt she would care for them as her own..."
This choice in the storyline permanently alters the outcome of the story and determines which reward you earn from Part 1. For convenience, these separate paths will be separated for the remainder for Part 1 of the storyline.
If you choose to Agree and give up two of your pups, you will receive a Base Applicator [Clover] at the end of Part 1 of the storyline.
If you choose to Refuse to give up two of your pups, you will receive a Base Applicator [Moss] at the end of Part 1 of the storyline.
Chapter 5 Agree Path
Chapter 5 Agree Path
Bring 2 puppies under a year old to give to Bronagh. They must be weaned. They can be sick, but cannot be immortal, secured, in a trade, in a raffle or in training.
Nudging the pups along with your nose, you guide them to the mouth of the cave. Quany is at your side, and Sirona and Maeve watch from a safer distance.
Bronagh's spirit focuses on the puppies, and her energy seems to practically thrum with happiness. Beside her paw, the trinket knot is shining.
"Oh, sweet ones, is that you? Come here, mother is here..."
The pups are confused at first, then they seem to recognize her as a wisp blinks in front of them briefly and then disappears.
"Mama? Mama!" They pad to the mouth of the cave, little tails wagging, and Bronagh leans down to nuzzle them.
"My puppies! You have returned! Oh I knew it, I knew those Faelcu would have to give you back. Come sweetlings, let's go home."
Bronagh turns and, with the puppies following, disappears into the darkness of the cave.
The breath that the earth was holding seems to release--wind stirs the air again, and you can hear bugs and small critters moving around you.
No one moves for several moments. It's as if you're all waiting for something else to happen. But all is calm again, and the energy that once crackled all around you has disappeared.
Sirona pads past you and Quany to the mouth of the cave--still dark, but the darkness is more murky than sinister now.
Gently grabbing it in her teeth, she pads over and then drops it at her paws as you, Quany, and Maeve all peer at it curiously.
"I would have thought she would have taken it with her..." Sirona trails off as she inspects it. It's no longer glowing, or giving off any sort of energy. In fact, it looks rather plain now.
Quany regards it with a thoughtful look. "The pieces of the knot were a physical manifestation of her memories... It was of this world even if she was not. It has no place except here on the mortal plane."
He turns it this way and that with a claw, as if looking for any sign that it's not just a normal trinket.
Maeve's voice is firm, almost commanding, as she joins you.
"Bury it, so that her soul finds peace in this world and she can't hurt anyone else."
She picks up the trinket knot in her jaws and pads a few feet into the cave before placing it gently on the ground.
"You took my Lowen. You took Conall. You hurt so many wolves... but it was all for your puppies. You just wanted your babies back." Her voice is near a whisper at the end, strained and full of grief. "That doesn't excuse what you did. Take your peace, for now... I will not give up. We will find a way to get back the wolves you took. One day. And if we have to go through you to do it, so be it."
The threat in her voice is undisguised, and without another word, she begins to dig.
You join her, and Quany and Sirona join in too. Within minutes there is a deep hole in the ground, and Maeve stops digging. Picking up the trinket knot in her teeth, she unceremoniously drops it into the hole.
With a nod of approval, she then begins to kick dirt back in, and working together you soon have it covered back up.
"Wait here, I'll be right back," Sirona says, and lopes away. Where is she going?
She returns a few minutes later holding a cluster of yellow flowers, and sets them gently on the soft mound of dirt.
"Not so much thoughtful as a step to ensure she doesn't come back," she replies. "Herbs hold great power. Whether you believe in such things or not, the gesture can't hurt."
Maeve leans over and gives her ear a lick.
"Thank you Sirona. Hopefully we never have to deal with this again." Maeve looks at you in gratitude. "Thank you for all you've done, [NAME]. At least for now, her search is over. I will not give up on Lowen. One day I'll see him again. But for now, my paws ache," she says with a sigh, and Sirona rolls her eyes.
"Gee, I wonder why. Come on Maeve, let's get you home," she says with a laugh, and padding side by side, they set off in the direction of their pack territory.
"Keep on your guard, [NAME]. It may take some time for the effects of her search to wear off. Trust nothing, especially the lights." His expression brightens. "I'd best go after them or I'll be left behind. I don't move very fast anymore, you know." He lets out a husky laugh and nods respectfully at you.
"You are a good pup. You've done well to help us these past days. I've been around a while, I know a good wolf when I see it." He goes downward into a stretch, as if gearing up for the long trek back to his den.
"Don't be a stranger to the Chaorainn Pack. Come visit when you can. I have a feeling there will be more than one little reason for you to seek us out again." He has a mischievous look in his eye, and you think you know what he means.
He pads off, shouting ahead: "Would you two wait? I'm pretty sure you're supposed to let the elders go first, you know."
You watch him disappear, and look back at the trinket knot burial site one last time before turning and heading back to your pack.
You have successfully completed the Coigreach storyline! You have been given the following rewards:
You got a Base Applicator [Clover] and + 100 Smoky Quartz!
The story will continue on November 20th.
Chapter 5 Refuse Path
Chapter 5 Refuse Path
Quany is regarding you with a frown. But is he upset, or just considering your answer?
"Very well, [NAME]. That is your choice. The problem still stands, then. We need to figure out a way to--"
"She can take them. Just let her take mine."
Maeve has gotten to her paws, and she's locking her sad eyes with yours as she speaks.
"Lowen is gone. The pups in my belly will never know him--and I can't do this without him. Better they live with her knowing love than to be stuck with me."
Maeve whirls around and goes nose-to-nose with Sirona.
"This isn't your choice, Sirona. What life can I give these pups without Lowen? It just won't be the same..." She's looking at the cave now, deep in thought. "They deserve better. They deserve better than a mother who won't be truly there."
She goes to take a step toward the cave, but Sirona blocks her path.
"Don't make any rash decisions! Think about this! You will love those pups and raise them well, I know you will. You won't be alone, Maeve. I'll be there, Quany will tell them stories--"
Maeve is shaking her head before Sirona even finishes speaking. "No. This is my decision. Stand aside, Sirona."
Maeve glares at you and peels her lips back in warning.
"This isn't up to you, either, [NAME]. I'm going."
She pushes past you and Sirona and makes her way to the mouth of the cave. Bronagh's ghostly form is staring unblinkingly at her.
"Can you understand me, spirit? I have your puppies. They're right here!" She turns to the side and shows Bronagh her swelling belly. At first she doesn't move, but then Bronagh seems to hone in on it, as if her focus is only for "her" puppies.
"Oh there you are... Yes, you've been kept away from me, but I see you now."
She takes a step toward Maeve, and Maeve seems to be drawn to her and moves forward. The two wolves are nose to nose, eyes locked, and although Bronagh doesn't have any expression to her face, you could swear something passes between them...
Maeve looks at you gratefully, and Sirona steps back with a sigh.
Maeve makes her way to the mouth of the cave. Bronagh's ghostly form is staring unblinkingly at her.
"Can you understand me, spirit? I have your puppies. They're right here!" She turns to the side and shows Bronagh her swelling belly. At first she doesn't move, but then Bronagh seems to hone in on it, as if her focus is only for "her" puppies.
"Oh there you are... Yes, you've been kept away from me, but I see you now."
She takes a step toward Maeve, and Maeve seems to be drawn to her and moves forward. The two wolves are nose to nose, eyes locked, and although Bronagh doesn't have any expression to her ghostly face, you could swear something passes between them...
Maeve sighs and closes her eyes, and Bronagh steps through her. It's like the two wolves are merging, and Maeve's fur is shimmering as the spirit goes through her body. Bronagh seems to dissipate at the end, and the air goes still.
Swaying on her feet a bit, Maeve blinks rapidly and shakes out her fur aggressively as if trying to dry a soaked pelt. She looks around, eyes wide, and twists to stare at her belly... which is no longer swollen.
"Such good pups, come with mother now. Those Faelcu can't keep you any longer."
All eyes look toward the mouth of the cave as Bronagh materializes again, this time with two ghostly puppies at her side. They whine at her, little tails wagging, and she leans down to nuzzle them gently.
Bronagh turns and, with the puppies following, disappears into the darkness of the cave.
The breath that the earth was holding seems to release--wind stirs the air again, and you can hear bugs and small critters moving around you.
No one moves for several moments. It's as if you're all waiting for something else to happen. But all is calm again, and the energy that once crackled all around you has disappeared.
Maeve slumps heavily to her rump, and Sirona is hurrying to her before either you or Quany have moved.
"Are you alright? Are you hurt?" Sirona noses and looks Maeve over as she assures the herbalist that she's fine. You breathe a sigh of relief and as you look back toward the cave, something catches your eye.
Sirona stops worrying over Maeve for a moment and pads over to the mouth of the cave. She noses something shiny into the light--the knot! Gently grabbing it in her teeth, she pads over and then drops it at her paws as you, Quany, and Maeve all peer at it curiously.
"I would have thought she would have taken it with her..." Sirona trails off as she inspects it. It's no longer glowing, or giving off any sort of energy. In fact, it looks rather plain now.
Quany regards it with a thoughtful look. "The pieces of the knot were a physical manifestation of her memories... It was of this world even if she was not. It has no place except here on the mortal plane."
He turns it this way and that with a claw, as if looking for any sign that it's not just a normal trinket.
Maeve's voice is quiet. You can't read her face as she looks at the group. It's almost too flat... as if she's feeling nothing at all.
"Bury it so we can put this to rest and forget that it ever happened."
She picks up the trinket knot in her jaws and pads a few feet into the cave before dropping it roughly on the ground.
"Take care of my babies, Bronagh. Just remember this: you took Lowen. You took Conall. You hurt so many wolves. So take your peace, for now... but I will not give up. We will find a way to get back the wolves you took. One day. And if we have to go through you to do it, so be it." Her voice is menacing at the end, full of malice. You don't doubt that she will make good on her promise.
You join her, and Quany and Sirona join in too. Within minutes there is a deep hole in the ground, and Maeve stops digging. Picking up the trinket knot in her teeth, she unceremoniously drops it into the hole.
With a nod of approval, she then begins to kick dirt back in, and working together you soon have it covered back up.
"Wait here, I'll be right back," Sirona says, and lopes away. Where is she going?
She returns a few minutes later holding a cluster of yellow flowers, and sets them gently on the soft mound of dirt.
"Not so much thoughtful as a step to ensure she doesn't come back," she replies. "Herbs hold great power. Whether you believe in such things or not, the gesture can't hurt."
Maeve snorts and kicks an extra tuft of dirt on the mound.
"Good riddance, I say. I'm going home," she states, and without another word she turns and heads toward the direction of her pack. Her gait is slow and tender, as if she's taking care to move gently, and Sirona turns to you.
"Thank you for everything, [NAME]. Don't worry about Maeve, I'll take care of her. She'll be okay after a time. She has the hope of finding Lowen to hold onto. I will do everything I can to help her find him... and Conall."
She hurries to catch up to Maeve, and she lets her lean against her as they walk.
"Keep on your guard, [NAME]. It may take some time for the effects of her search to wear off. Trust nothing, especially the lights. Anyway, I'd best go after them or I'll be left behind. I don't move very fast anymore." He stretches with a groan, and you hear his old joints pop.
"Don't be a stranger to the Chaorainn Pack. Come visit when you can. I have a feeling there will be a time when we call on you again." His eyes are hopeful, and you want to believe that hope comes to fruition. Maybe one day there will be a way...
He gives you one final look before he pads off after them silently.
You watch him disappear, and look back at the trinket knot burial site one last time before turning and heading back to your pack.
You have successfully completed the Coigreach storyline! You have been given the following rewards:
You got a Base Applicator [Moss] and + 100 Smoky Quartz!
The story will continue on November 20th.
Part 2
Part 2
Storyline steps are listed in linear order, and are not sorted based on which path or choices you take. Clicking on a button in each step will allow you to quickly jump to the next step in the story, affected by the button you pressed.
The following steps will display if you chose to sacrifice your own pups in Part 1. If you refused to sacrifice your own pups, you will get these steps instead.
The air is fresh today. You raise your nose to the breeze and let the myriad of scents wash over you, sorting through them for prey. Your ears listen for the tell tale rustling that signals something is moving around. You can feel it--prey is close!
Suddenly you hear small yips and growls carried to you from a short distance away. It halts your hunting, and you follow the noise curiously. What are pups doing all the way out here?
You round a cluster of trees and are greeted with a pleasant surprise: it's Maeve, watching two strong pups play and tumble with one another. They are stumpy and not very coordinated on their little legs, but they have full bellies and clean fur and clearly don't lack for energy.
One of the pups stops playing as it notices you, looking at you quizzically with overgrown ears and wide eyes.
"Auntie Maeve!" it squeaks, and the she-wolf glances up from grooming her paw.
She gasps and leaps to her paws in delight, tail wagging as her lips peel back to reveal a toothy grin.
Maeve grins, wagging her tail, and you can see true happiness radiating from her.
"They are. My dear ones."
She leans down to nuzzle them, and they squirm under her attentions. She shoos them away with a murmured word to go play, and after hesitating a moment they go back to their tumbling.
Maeve turns back to you. "Strong, are they not? They remind me of him."
She is practically bursting with pride, and it's hard to resist getting caught up in her happiness. There's a sadness behind her eyes, too; she misses her mate.
A thoughtful look crosses her face, and she is silent for a few moments as she formulates an answer.
"I am proud of my pups and the strength they carry of Lowen. I smile as I watch them and teach them what they need to know. If that is happiness, then yes, I am happy."
She turns her attention back to the pups, ever the vigilant mother, and seems to be at peace as she watches them.
The gentle play of the pups is too much to resist; you decide to join them.
You lower yourself to the ground and with happy yips they begin to use you as a climbing toy. They take turns climbing up on your back and leaping to the ground fiercely and then tussle with one another.
It's a peaceful time, and one that will stay in your memory for a long time to come.
"You seem to have a talent for finding our friend, Maeve."
The following steps will display if you refused to sacrifice your own pups in Part 1. If you chose to sacrifice your own pups, you will get these steps instead.
The air is fresh today. You raise your nose to the breeze and let the myriad of scents wash over you, sorting through them for prey. Your ears listen for the tell tale rustling that signals something is moving around. You can feel it--prey is close!
Suddenly you hear small yips and growls carried to you from a short distance away. It halts your hunting, and you follow the noise curiously. What are pups doing all the way out here?
You round a cluster of trees and are greeted with a pleasant surprise: it's Maeve, watching two strong pups play and tumble with one another. They are stumpy and not very coordinated on their little legs, but they have full bellies and clean fur and clearly don't lack for energy.
One of the pups stops playing as it notices you, looking at you quizzically with overgrown ears and wide eyes.
"Auntie Maeve!" it squeaks, and the she-wolf glances up from grooming her paw.
She gasps and leaps to her paws in delight, tail wagging as her lips peel back to reveal a toothy grin.
Maeve goes quiet. As the silence rises to an awkward level, she shakes herself and returns to the present.
"Go play, pups. You need those muscles strong!"
They bound away happily and go back to their game. Maeve sits heavily on the ground and watches them with sad eyes.
"After Lowen, and then my own pups...I needed to do something. Scouting just wasn't enough anymore. So I chose a different path: I am a Pupsitter now, and watch after the next generation. Make them strong, teach them what they will need to survive, and love them. These two are pups of my pack."
Pride shines in her eyes briefly, drowning out the sadness for a moment, and you wonder if this is enough for her
"Happy? I'm not sure...It's a form of happiness, I suppose. Content would be a better word. I'm not sure if I will ever be truly happy again, but as it is now I can't complain. Maybe one day things will change."
The longing in her face as she watches the pups is so clear, so strong, that you are at a loss for words.
You settle yourself next to Maeve, offering her silent comfort, and together you watch the pups for a while as they play.
Watching the carefree nature of the pups as they play seems to soothe Maeve. Her sadness dwindles, and instead her fondness for the pups shines through.
It's a peaceful scene shadowed by sadness.
"You seem to have a talent for finding our friend, Maeve."
The gentle play of the pups is too much to resist; you decide to join them.
You lower yourself to the ground and with happy yips they begin to use you as a climbing toy. They take turns climbing up on your back and leaping to the ground fiercely and then tussle with one another.
Maeve joins you after some time, genuine happiness lighting up her face. She loves the pups, even if they aren't her own.
It's a peaceful time, and one that will stay in your memory for a long time to come.
"You seem to have a talent for finding our friend, Maeve."
You turn with a start at the sound of the soft, familiar voice.
Sirona spits out a bundle of herbs and braces herself for the furry onslaught of two pups as they race toward her, their game forgotten with her arrival.
"Miss Sirona! Can I see?"
"What herbs did you find? Move out of the way, you're blocking me!"
They crowd around the pile of herbs, their little noses going wild.
"Now now, don't ruin them with your stomping!" Sirona scolds. "Take them over there and sort them. I'll be there in a minute to check and see how you do."
They snatch the herbs up and hurry away, leaving Sirona smiling after them with a bemused look.
The Herbalist looks genuinely happy to see you. She appears just as well as Maeve, and you breathe a sigh of relief that you didn't know you'd been holding onto.
"I'm glad you're well, [NAME]." Sirona stretches gracefully and shakes out her pelt. "Our pack has been thriving, despite everything. Although I fear our luck may run out sooner or later."
She looks preoccupied and Maeve sighs.
"Don't be so worried, Sirona! You'll figure it out. Maybe [NAME] has an idea."
With a look over at the pups to make sure they wouldn't overhear, Sirona quietly begins to answer.
"As you know, we were able to stop Bronagh. For a time, everything seemed to be fine--but then wolves began to report increasing amounts of disturbances. The lights began to float and dance again, and the whispers started twisting their way into hearts and minds. Luckily, we have not lost anyone else...but I suspect that's due in part to our vigilance.
"We have avoided hunting at night, and travel to open spaces to look for prey. This way nothing can hide in the shadows and pull wolves in. I've also been making the hunters roll in mountain lion dung.
Sirona laughs and Maeve makes a face, clearly agreeing with you.
"It is, but it's effective for distracting the senses. It won't work forever, though, and we can't keep hunting as we are. It's not sustainable. I've been trying to come up with a mixture of herbs that is more effective that we can use, but so far I haven't been successful."
Her eyes glance toward the pups, who have apparently grown bored with sorting herbs and have begun to tussle once again.
"Let's go wrangle those two before they destroy it all, Maeve. Come see us later, [NAME]. Maybe we can put our heads together and find a mixture that works."
With the pups in tow, they set off back to their pack, leaving you wondering just what it is that you've gotten yourself into.
You make your way across the vast land that separates your territory from the Chaorainn Pack. As you head up into the mountains, you feel an ominous heaviness in the air. You don't see anything...but there's something lurking. Keeping your eyes fixed on the path ahead, you try to keep your senses closed off until you reach the denning area of the pack.
As you cross into the clearing, you're greeted by the wolves of the pack. They're cheery, and pleased to see you, treating you like an old friend.
You head to Sirona's den, smelling an awful, pungent smell before you even see the Herbalist. She's chewing up a bundle into a paste, and you watch as she spits it out onto a large leaf. Her eyes stream and she chokes and gags, and you wonder how on earth she can stand to taste something so foul.
"Oh, [NAME]! You're here..." she coughs and wipes her face with a paw, trying to clear her senses from the stink of the herbs.
"Just one of the endless herbal mixtures I'm trying. You'd think this mixture would work, wouldn't you? But I keep testing it, and it's smelly for a bit...but not enough to protect our hunters for any period of time."
Sirona paws at the ground irritably. It must be incredibly frustrating for an Herbalist to be unable to come up with a remedy, and you wonder how long she's been at it.
"Maybe I just can't find the right herbs..." she murmurs, and turns to go through various piles she has tucked at the back of her den.
She nods. "I'll be alright...it just takes me a moment. You'd think this mixture would work, wouldn't you? But I keep testing it, and it's smelly for a bit...but not enough to protect our hunters for any period of time."
Sirona paws at the ground irritably. It must be incredibly frustrating for an Herbalist to be unable to come up with a remedy, and you wonder how long she's been at it.
"Maybe I just can't find the right herbs..." she murmurs, and turns to go through various piles she has tucked at the back of her den.
"You are a kind wolf, [NAME]. I did have an idea, if you're up for it...?"
She peers hopefully at you, and excitedly launches into her plan when you nod.
"I've tried every combination of herbs I can think of that I can get around here. Your territory is quite a distance from here, and I can't help but wonder if maybe you have herbs there that might be what I'm looking for. Would you be willing to bring me all that you can find?"
The herbalist bumps her head against your shoulder gratefully and turns back to her piles of herbs.
"Thank you. I think we can do this, [NAME]."
She looks fiercely determined, and stands tall. You can't help but notice how she seems a bit different... she's more confident and self assured than she was when you saw her last. Sirona had always been intelligent and one to speak her mind, but she certainly has more of a presence now. It's good to see her like this.
You hover over Sirona as she finishes mixing the combination of herbs. The stench is rancid, and seems to hover in the air above the leaf where the paste sits.
"What in hell's name is that smell?"
The entrance to the den is blocked by a large shadow, and a familiar shaggy head pokes through with his paw hooked over his nose.
Quany peels his lips back and makes a noise of annoyance.
"Ha! A great opener, must be the best I've ever heard. Truly the highest mark of intelligence is your amateur attempt at snark. Try again, pup." He turns away and frowns at Sirona. "Haven't you made enough of those awful concoctions yet?"
Sirona's tail is wagging excitedly as she inspects the paste, paying no mind to Quany's grumbling.
"I think this is it! Every other mixture I tried before [NAME] brought me these herbs from their territory has failed. This should be able to stay on fur for extended periods of time without needing to be reapplied or fading."
"I should have known you were involved. Sirona, haven't you made enough of those awful concoctions yet?"
Sirona's tail is wagging excitedly as she inspects the paste, paying no mind to Quany's grumbling.
"I think this is it! Every other mixture I tried before [NAME] brought me these herbs from their territory has failed. This should be able to stay on fur for extended periods of time without needing to be reapplied or fading."
Quany recoils with a snarl and glares at the she-wolf.
"You try it! I won't be able to get that out of my fur for weeks. No pup is going to want to help me, either."
Sirona's eyes dance mischievously as she turns away from the pouting elder and looks at you.
"We need to test it to be sure. I'll have our hunters try it tonight. Would you take some back with you too, [NAME]? It would be best to test it as much as possible to be sure it works."
Sirona laughs at your obvious displeasure of having to trek back to your pack with the stinky mixture.
"I promise it will be worth it, [NAME]. The smellier the better, so if it's still holding such a pungent odor by the time you get back, that's a great sign. Get some rest, too." She presses her nose against your cheek gently, and you can tell she's genuinely grateful.
You turn with a sigh and make your way out of the den, and as you pass by Quany you notice he's holding his paw gingerly. Perhaps he had stepped on it wrong? It would explain why he showed up when he did. You hurry away, knowing he won't let Sirona help him if you are eavesdropping.
"Perfect! Make sure you get some rest, too. You've earned it. We can reconvene in the morning."
You make your way out of the den, and as you pass by Quany you notice he's holding his paw gingerly. Perhaps he had stepped on it wrong? It would explain why he showed up when he did. You hurry away, knowing he won't let Sirona help him if you are eavesdropping.
The Herbalist turns with an excited wag of her tail and gestures around the den.
"It worked! Oh [NAME], it worked!"
The den is a wreck. You look around in amusement at the scattered herbs and general disarray. Had she been up all night?
"The hunters reported that the patch of fur they applied the paste to kept its fragrance and they didn't have any sightings of lights, or hear any whispers. They were too busy focusing on the prey-scent over the smell of the herbs. How did yours fare?"
"That's wonderful news! After our hunters came back, I started making more, but we don't have much left. We'll need to get more herbs to make more of it."
She turns and casts her gaze over her den, not looking at anything in particular. She is lost in thought.
"We can't just keep this to ourselves, [NAME]. The other packs nearby have not been as lucky as we have...the stories I've heard..." Sirona falls silent for a moment, then shakes herself and meets your eyes.
A young wolf bursts into the den, out of breath and eyes bright. His dark fur is slick and clean, and muscles ripple beneath his pelt. He's fit and smells like prey, with a familiar paste smeared on the underside of his throat. A hunter, perhaps?
Sirona jerks back in surprise, then grins.
"Lorcan! What are you doing here? Did something go wrong this time?" Her face becomes concerned, but the exuberant wolf shakes his head.
"Not at all!" He turns to you with a smirk. "And who might you be?"
"Lorcan, you know very well who this is. Stop teasing poor [NAME]."
The young wolf's tongue lolls and he goes down into a languid stretch, taking the time to show off each and every one of his muscles. Was he trying to impress you?
"Alright, alright. You're no fun, Ma." He pointedly sits next to you, sneaking looks out of the corner of his eyes.
"What do you need, Lorcan? We're right in the middle of something."
"That gross, smelly paste; got any more? We need to go back out," he replies.
"Unfortunately, yes," she sighs. "We didn't have much to begin with. We have to gather more herbs, and we have to help the surrounding packs. We can't just leave them to fend for themselves when we have this paste at our disposal."
Lorcan jumps to his feet in excitement.
"I can go! I never get to go anywhere anymore when I'm not hunting. Not since Lowen--" He halts abruptly in the middle of speaking and looks down at his paws.
"Good. Now you just have to decide what you want to do, [NAME]. It's your choice. You can either come with me and gather more herbs, or you can go with Lorcan and seek out wolves from the surrounding packs and take them the news of the mixture. Which will it be?"
Sirona will ask for 7 random herbs, one of each, found all around the map.
You return with Sirona to the den after having successfully gathered enough herbs to make the paste for many days if needed.
Lorcan returns around the same time, looking rather glum. He tries to hide his disappointment, but Sirona picks up on it before he gets the chance.
"What's wrong, Lorcan? Did something happen?"
The young wolf sighs. "I'm not good at this stuff. They..." His eyes dart around the den, refusing to meet Sirona's eyes. "No one believed me. They thought I was mad."
The herbalist shakes her head sadly, going up to nuzzle him consolingly.
"We did what we could. If they choose not to believe us, there's nothing we can do. Come on; let's get these herbs mixed." She gently guides him to the herb pile, and he glances back at you hopefully.
The young hunter lets out a small woof of pleasure and steps forward to touch noses with you, stopping at the last second when he realizes his mistake. He looks away bashfully and doesn't meet your eyes.
"Good! Between us, we'll find everyone we can. We'll make ah...we'll make a good team, I think." He fumbles over his words, and you notice Sirona snickering.
"Very good then, [NAME]," Sirona chimes in. "I'll see what I can find on my own. Hopefully it won't be too difficult to find what I need."
Lorcan keeps avoiding your gaze and ducks out of the den. You follow, looking forward to getting to know him better. He's awkward, but you know he means well.
Explore to find wolves in explore and bring them the news of the herb paste.
"Without delay you tell the wolf about the herbal salve that Sirona has created to protect wolves against the light and whispers. You tell them what herbs to use, and how to make it. The wolf brightens upon hearing this, and promises to tell their herbalist right away."
You return with Lorcan to the den after having successfully found wolves from all of the surrounding packs
Sirona returns around the same time, looking pleased with a rather small wad of herbs in her jaws.
"I wasn't able to find much, so I'm not sure how much more we can make," she admits, dropping the herbs on the ground. "It would have been helpful to have you along. We'll manage with what we have, though. Did you find success?"
"Yes!" Lorcan replies cheerfully. "We were able to give the recipe to all of the surrounding packs. [NAME] is a great partner. I bet we'd make one hell of a hunting team."
His praise catches you off guard, and you find yourself unsure of how to react.
There's something not quite right...you feel as though you should explore to find its source. It feels as though danger lurks in the land.
Tip: try exploring to find something to continue the story!
FOUND SOMETHING!
You feel yourself pulled to an unsettling sight: a cave, with inky black darkness pouring out of it. You're unable to make yourself go closer...but you can't turn away, either. With a start you realize that this is no ordinary cave--it's the one Bronagh was sealed in! It looks menacing now, no longer the peaceful scene you left it not too long ago. Two sets of eyes peer at you from the darkness and whispers hiss threatening words in your ears. You finally pull yourself away and run away as fast as you can. You need to tell the Chaorainn Pack!
Your pelt prickles with fear as you hurry toward the territory of the Chaorainn Pack. The sight of the portal leaking out from the cave, and the warnings of whatever those beings were...you push down your fear and keep moving forward. You must warn them.
Wind tugs at your fur and there are clouds gathering in the distance; it's almost as if the land itself is warning you of things yet to pass and pushing you on.
You burst into the clearing, startling Lorcan, who is sunning himself.
His voice fades away as you hurry to the herbalist's den. She's hovering over Quany, whose paw is stretched out as she applies medicine to it. They both jump, startled, and Sirona's eyes go wide at your unexpected appearance.
Before she can say a word, Lorcan bursts in after you, nearly crashing into your backside.
"What the hell, [NAME]? You can't just ignore me!"
You can see he's angry, but that doesn't matter now. You tell them in between gasps of breath about what you've discovered--that the cave Bronagh was sealed in is open, and the portal to the Faelcu realm is open for all to access.
Sirona stares at you in stunned silence, while Quany's breath rushes out of him with a small hiss. His lips peel back in the beginnings of a snarl.
"And here I was thinking I would get some peace today. Clearly not. Tell me exactly what happened, [NAME], and don't leave anything out."
You push past him and hurry to the herbalist's den. His hurried paw steps can be heard behind you as he follows you. She's hovering over Quany, whose paw is stretched out as she applies medicine to it. They both jump, startled, and Sirona's eyes go wide.
"[NAME]! What is it? Is everything okay?"
You tell them in between gasps of breath about what you've discovered--that the cave Bronagh was sealed in is open, and the portal to the Faelcu realm is open for all to access.
Sirona stares at you in stunned silence, while Quany's breath rushes out of him with a small hiss. His lips peel back in the beginnings of a snarl.
"And here I was thinking I would get some peace today. Clearly not. Tell me exactly what happened, [NAME] and don't leave anything out."
You recount what had happened with as much detail as you remember:
The cave, once still and peaceful, had turned to an inky darkness, so tangible that it looked like it was leaking out. The lights were numerous and danced, and the whispers assaulted your ears.
From the cave, two sets of shiny eyes stared at you menacingly, and your pelt prickled with unease when they appeared. They meant danger.
The whispers became louder, and two voices above all came through loud and clear:
"Are you calling me old?" Quany snaps. He glares at you, but then let's out a sigh and continues:
"Vaguely. We don't use the old language anymore, but some words and phrases still pop up here and there in stories. An Aonta roughly translates to "The Pact." The only time I've ever heard it used is in stories relating to the Faelcu."
Sirona looks thoughtful. "Considering our experience with Bronagh, these old tales having truth to them doesn't seem all that far fetched. What exactly is it about?" she asks.
The elder hesitates, clearly uneasy. Is the story that bad?
"I see your manners are as terrible as ever," he retorts. With a sigh he continues:
"We don't use the old language anymore, but some words and phrases still pop up here and there in stories. An Aonta roughly translates to "The Pact." The only time I've ever heard it used is in stories relating to the Faelcu."
Sirona looks thoughtful. "Considering our experience with Bronagh, these old tales having truth to them doesn't seem all that far fetched. What exactly is it about?" she asks.
The elder hesitates, clearly uneasy. Is the story that bad?
"Nothing is necessarily wrong," he replies. "It's just not exactly a bedtime story."
"Well that's good, because you suck at those," Lorcan huffs, and Sirona gasps.
"Lorcan! Watch your tongue!" She looks horrified, but oddly, Quany is actually laughing.
"Oh, he's not wrong. He's also just mad that he didn't sleep for a week when I told him a particular favorite of mine when he was a pup," the elder sneers. Lorcan only glares at him and stays silent.
"All of that aside, let me see if I can remember it properly. Give me a moment."
He settles himself, and as if taking it as an invitation, Lorcan looks at you hopefully.
The choice you make in this step slightly alters to next few pages of the chapter, but does not affect the end of the story.
Sit with Lorcan Steps
Sit with Lorcan Steps
The young wolf pads over in delight and sits next to you companionably. It's a simple gesture, but one that clearly has made his day.
"So from what I remember," Quany begins, "the Faelcu used to share this world with us. Over time, a rift formed between the mortal wolves and the Faelcu, which led to increasingly violent disagreements. Eventually, the mortal wolves drove them so far to the brink that they retreated to a place they could call their own: it's what we now know as the Faelcu Realm.
"For a time they left each other alone, but it wasn't long before the curiosity of younger generations that knew nothing of the past strife began to cause trouble again."
Quany shakes his head. "Not exactly. At heart, the Faelcu were playful and loved playing tricks on one another and manipulating the world around them. The mortal wolves only knew of them in stories, and the Faelcu didn't know the violence the mortal wolves had caused.
"This presented an opportunity: the Faelcu enjoyed toying with the mortals who knew nothing of them, and they didn't harbor any ill will toward them without the knowledge of their ancestors. Soon their tales of mischief changed from stories to very real concerns. Their penchant for the Changeling nonsense drove the mortal wolves to once again hunt them down."
"Let me finish, would you?" he growls, and you fall silent obediently.
"This time, though, instead of bloodshed, they eventually managed to make a deal. The Faelcu did not want to leave the mortal realm, and the mortal wolves wanted nothing to do with their tricks.
"In the end they agreed to simple terms: a wolf would join them in their realm when it grew old, to entertain them and tell them tales of the mortal world. They would get what they sought: a way to satiate their curiosity, while the mortal wolves could live in peace without worrying about Changelings, among other things.
Quany shakes his head. "Not exactly. At heart, the Faelcu were playful and loved playing tricks on one another and manipulating the world around them. The mortal wolves only knew of them in stories, and the Faelcu didn't know the violence the mortal wolves had caused.
"This presented an opportunity: the Faelcu enjoyed toying with the mortals who knew nothing of them, and they didn't harbor any ill will toward them without the knowledge of their ancestors. Soon their tales of mischief changed from stories to very real concerns. Their penchant for the Changeling nonsense drove the mortal wolves to once again hunt them down."
Quany's brow furrows. "That's what I'm not sure of...why now? As far as I know, if this story is to be believed, this is not something the pack has done for generations. If it was something that happened, why did it stop? Why is it an issue now when it hasn't been spoken of for generations?"
Sirona rises to her paws and begins to pace back and forth, her spinning thoughts easy to read on her face.
"This all started with Bronagh. We settled that score; everything should have gone back to normal. And it did, for a time...and now we're thrust back into it." Sirona is speaking out loud, but not addressing anyone in particular.
After this point, the two storyline paths merge again.
Ignore Lorcan Steps
Ignore Lorcan Steps
You look away, keeping your eyes expectantly on Quany, and notice Lorcan's face fall out of the corner of your eye. He goes to sit by Sirona, making it a point to make his face go neutral.
"So from what I remember," Quany begins, "the Faelcu used to share this world with us. Over time, a rift formed between the mortal wolves and the Faelcu, which led to increasingly violent disagreements. Eventually, the mortal wolves drove them so far to the brink that they retreated to a place they could call their own: it's what we now know as the Faelcu Realm.
"For a time they left each other alone, but it wasn't long before the curiosity of younger generations that knew nothing of the past strife began to cause trouble again."
Quany shakes his head. "Not exactly. At heart, the Faelcu were playful and loved playing tricks on one another and manipulating the world around them. The mortal wolves only knew of them in stories, and the Faelcu didn't know the violence the mortal wolves had caused.
"This presented an opportunity: the Faelcu enjoyed toying with the mortals who knew nothing of them, and they didn't harbor any ill will toward them without the knowledge of their ancestors. Soon their tales of mischief changed from stories to very real concerns. Their penchant for the Changeling nonsense drove the mortal wolves to once again hunt them down."
"Let me finish, would you?" he growls, and you fall silent obediently.
"This time, though, instead of bloodshed, they eventually managed to make a deal. The Faelcu did not want to leave the mortal realm, and the mortal wolves wanted nothing to do with their tricks.
"In the end they agreed to simple terms: a wolf would join them in their realm when it grew old, to entertain them and tell them tales of the mortal world. They would get what they sought: a way to satiate their curiosity, while the mortal wolves could live in peace without worrying about Changelings, among other things.
"Would you like to finish the story, [NAME]? Clearly you know it better than I do." Quany glares at you, and you feel Lorcan's irritated gaze from across the den. Good for you; you've not only pissed Quany off, but Lorcan, too. Maybe you should take the hint and keep your mouth shut. After you fall silent, Quany continues:
"This time, though, instead of bloodshed, they eventually managed to make a deal. The Faelcu did not want to leave the mortal realm, and the mortal wolves wanted nothing to do with their tricks.
"In the end they agreed to simple terms: a wolf would join them in their realm when it grew old, to entertain them and tell them tales of the mortal world. They would get what they sought: a way to satiate their curiosity, while the mortal wolves could live in peace without worrying about Changelings, among other things.
Quany's brow furrows. "That's what I'm not sure of...why now? As far as I know, if this story is to be believed, this is not something the pack has done for generations. If it was something that happened, why did it stop? Why is it an issue now when it hasn't been spoken of for generations?"
Sirona rises to her paws and begins to pace back and forth, her spinning thoughts easy to read on her face.
"This all started with Bronagh. We settled that score; everything should have gone back to normal. And it did, for a time...and now we're thrust back into it." Sirona is speaking out loud, but not addressing anyone in particular.
"Ever the cheery one, aren't you?" Lorcan mutters under his breath, and Sirona lets out an exasperated sigh.
"Honestly, knock it off, both of you. We're going to be here all day if you two keep interrupting." Her hard stare cows you into silence and Lorcan turns away, ignoring your existence.
"Whether you buy it or not, [NAME]. it stands to reason that there's some truth to it. If this story is to be believed, this is not something the pack has done for generations. If it was something that happened, why did it stop? Why is it an issue now when it hasn't been spoken of for generations?"
Sirona rises to her paws and begins to pace back and forth, her spinning thoughts easy to read on her face.
"This all started with Bronagh. We settled that score; everything should have gone back to normal. And it did, for a time...and now we're thrust back into it." Sirona is speaking out loud, but not addressing anyone in particular.
After this point, the two storyline paths merge again.
Sirona simply shakes her head, and Quany stays silent. It doesn't feel the same...but what else could it be?
"Wait a minute," Lorcan pipes up. "Bronagh is the one who opened the portals, isn't she? They weren't open before?"
Quany observes Lorcan thoughtfully before nodding.
"That's right. There was none of the portal nonsense going on with the whispers and lights. What are you getting at?"
Lorcan looks excited now. "So if the portals weren't open before...what if Bronagh's interference opened them, and then they never got closed like we thought? Bronagh was just a spirit; she wasn't a Faelcu. What if she wasn't able to control them at all?"
Lorcan's words are met with stunned silence for several moments before Sirona speaks.
"So if Bronagh truly had no power...does that mean the Faelcu themselves were behind this all along?"
"Given what the old stories say, I suppose it's not out of the question," Quany adds. "We don't know the extent of their power, but we do know that they like to prey on mortal wolves with their tricks. It's entirely possible they simply used Bronagh to gain access to our world."
The elder shakes his head, staring off into the distance as he speaks.
"Not forced, no...but perhaps Bronagh becoming what she did all those years ago wasn't entirely a coincidence."
The den goes silent once again, and Lorcan doesn't seem convinced.
"But that doesn't make sense," he protests. When did the portals get closed? How? Why?" He's strangely agitated, and you can't quite get a read on his mood.
"I think we're beyond the point of anything making sense," Sirona tells him softly. "We can only guess. The issue at hand is that they're still open."
"He does, [NAME]," Quany agrees, "but Sirona also has a point: we don't really know, and we may never know. It's speculation that makes sense in theory, but that's all it is."
He stands and lets out a stretch, his joints popping.
"If these Faelcu are pursuing An Aonta, how will we ever get rid of them? Something that supposedly happened generations ago isn't something we have any control over," Lorcan points out.
Sirona sighs. "As much as I wish it weren't true, Lorcan is right. Are we truly going to pay the price for something our ancestors did?"
"They can...are you suggesting what I think you are? To forge a new An Aonta?" Her eyes go wide at the thought, and she looks at Quany. "Could it work?"
Quany has a look of admiration on his face; clearly you've impressed the old man.
"In theory...I don't see why not," he agrees. "I've no idea how, but if the intention is there and they get what they want, how could they refuse?"
Lorcan's fur bristles and he lets out a low growl.
"You want to let them take more wolves?" he snarls. "Are you crazy?"
"Lorcan, calm down. Your temper will get us nowhere," Sirona scolds, and the young wolf struggles to quiet himself.
"My hope," Quany continues quietly, "is to see if we can come to a new agreement--one where they benefit but we don't lose any more members of our pack. Or other packs, for that matter. What remains to be seen, however, is if it will work at all. The Faelcu are not known to be forgiving. It's best we prepare for the worst."
Lorcan scowls and shakes his head back and forth vehemently.
"I'm not letting them take any more wolves; I'll kill them before they do." He puffs himself up, and though he is young, he's still a full-grown wolf with formidable strength.
"Yes, yes I am," he snaps, and gives you a hard stare. "And don't think--"
"That's enough. It's not fair to take your anger out on [NAME], Lorcan," Sirona interjects, and she presses her head against his. "I know you're strong, and I know you want Lowen back. I want him back...but he's gone, and a fight isn't going to get us anywhere. It may very well put us in more danger."
The young hunter slumps a bit, the fight appearing to melt out of him. He lets out a sigh and meets your gaze.
"I'm sorry. Please don't hate me."
"[NAME] doesn't have it in them to hate anyone but me," Quany says tartly.
He glares at you. "Of course it will; are you stupid? What makes you think--"
"That's enough. It's not fair to take your anger out on [NAME], Lorcan," Sirona interjects, and she presses her head against his. "I know you're strong, and I know you want Lowen back. I want him back...but he's gone, and a fight isn't going to get us anywhere. It may very well put us in more danger."
The young hunter slumps a bit, the fight appearing to melt out of him. He lets out a sigh and meets your gaze.
"I'm sorry. Please don't hate me."
"[NAME] doesn't have it in them to hate anyone but me," Quany says tartly.
Looking unconvinced, he begins to move towards the entrance to the den with a gesture to Lorcan.
"Come on, pup. Pretend to help me back to my den so your mother feels like I'm being looked after."
The herbalist simply rolls her eyes and says primly, "Time for a nap, old man?"
Quany whips around, his mouth agape. You can't say you disagree. In fact, you're wondering if it even happened at all--did Sirona really just say that?
"I..." He seems caught off guard, unsure what to say. The herbalist peels her lips back in a toothy grin, which seems to pull Quany back to the present.
"You'd like that, wouldn't you. But no, I'm going to be far more useful than that. I'm going to try and come up with an idea...and nap at the same time."
He startles you by barking out a laugh so hard that it throws him into a coughing fit.
"Touché, [NAME]," he gasps out, then clears his throat and gets a hold of himself.
"Come on, pup. Pretend to help me back to my den so your mother feels like I'm being looked after," he tells Lorcan, moving toward the entrance to the den.
The herbalist simply rolls her eyes and says primly, "Time for a nap, old man?"
Quany whips around, his mouth agape. You can't say you disagree. In fact, you're wondering if it even happened at all--did Sirona really just say that?
"I..." He seems caught off guard, unsure what to say. The herbalist peels her lips back in a toothy grin, which seems to pull Quany back to the present.
"You'd like that, wouldn't you? But no, I'm going to be far more useful than that. I'm going to try and come up with an idea...and nap at the same time."
Sirona snorts softly, and Quany pointedly ignores you.
"Be careful out there." Like a switch, his sour, teasing demeanor becomes serious, and he looks back and forth between the two of you.
"I have no idea what they're capable of. Stay close."
With that, he turns and walks stiffly out of the den, limping on his paw again.
A cold nose pokes your shoulder, and you turn to the smiling herbalist.
"Let's go back to your territory together. It will be safer that way. I think we all need some time to come to terms with this and prepare for whatever is about to come." Her face darkens and becomes troubled.
With Sirona at your side, you make the trek back home. Her company is not unwelcome as the whispers and lights dance at the edge of your senses, haunting you the whole way home
100 Smoky Quartz!
