The Wacouta pack is a very traditional pack; claiming they reign and share blood from ancient warrior wolves that date back to the first pack in the area. The Wacouta pack respect all gods, but the gods they favor the most are The Drowned God and the 3 Faced Goddess. All of the wolves within the pack generally pray for plentiful hunts and good, prosperous seasons when the leaves change. It is believed solemnly that the Horned God chooses the next Alpha and determines when he or she rises and falls. There is the belief that Alphas serve a purpose and once that purpose has been filled, it is usually their time for their reign to end. The Drowned God is heavily worshiped as a predominant amount of wolves within the pack live and breathe watery terrain and have sea-wolf lineage in their blood. The 3 Faced Goddess is also highly admired due to her fierce mothering nature and love for youth. Most of the wolves in Wacouta do not view any of the Gods or Godesses to be considered "false".
As Wacouta are very traditional; they believe that all pups are sacred and are protected like a piece of treasure. It is believed that they are the future and the future ought to be trained hard and protected with claw and fang. Matehood is a sacred rite; mates are chosen carefully or sometimes arranged and once a couple unites and defines as mates, they tend to stick together and support one another. Splitting up and/or cheating is considered wrong by nearly all wolves within the pack and those who do so generally lose respect from their packmates. Wolves who are of an elite rank tend to socialize with wolves of similar ranking; it is extremely unlikely and again frowned upon to see a wolf of elite ranking to be mixing with one of lower-ranking – i.e. a Guardian and an Omega.
While Wacouta prides itself on being a very traditional pack. The previous two Alphess have been female and have brought forward thinking and innovation through to Wacouta. Questioning rules and looking beyond what the eye can see has been a unique challenge for the pack. Many of the wolves are still very traditional and go by the old ways - male dominance and virility, giving away wolves as trade agreements, females ranking lowly purely because of their gender, etc (The Horned God/God of the Hunt). But, with the rise of the past two Alphess; the pack has kept many of it's traditional ideals and views, but with a more dated view of The Horned God.
UPSKILLING
In the Wacouta pack; pups are trained by the den-mothers up to 12 months. Den-mothers pass on an array of knowledge. Some of which include swimming (must), basic hunting, basic fighting, history, traditions and an outline of who Wacouta are and what they stand for.
When pups reach 12 months of age; the head caregiver selects a pathway for each pup. The pathway determines whether the pup goes towards the caregiver class, healer class, warrior class or provider class.
Before the pup can successfully take on their new rank; they must succeed in the completion of a test. The test will vary depending on the class the head-caregiver selected for the pup. Below is a suggestion or example of the type of test the pup may need to complete. It may vary depending on who is conducting the said test.
Caregiver class: Test completed by the head caregiver – usually a test of knowledge about pack roles and the varying types, the gods and goddesses, basic signs of illness and what to watch out for in young pups. Pups who pass this test are assigned a den-mother by the head-caregiver who will train them more extensively. Pups who pass learn about the birthing process, history, the purpose of omegas and slaves, plus are generally well versed in basic hunting and fighting.
Healer class: Test completed by the shaman – usually, a test of memory, will, and knowledge of diseases/illnesses (not necessarily their cure as most may still be unsure and/or learning). Passion and determination are highly sought after in this test. Pups who pass the Shaman’s test automatically become Apothecaries where they will learn all of the diseases and illnesses and how these can be cured.
Warrior class: Test completed by the Paladin – usually a very basic test where pups are required to participate in a mock battle. The battle is serious in most regards, but real bites and tactics are not permitted as it is designed to test the pups skills, position, and overall combat ability. Pups who demonstrate willingness and skill pass the test and are assigned to train under a Sentinel. The Sentinel is selected by Paladin.
Provider class: Test completed by the Deerstalker – usually, a basic test where pups are required to hunt prey to demonstrate skill. Only pups who succeed in returning prey are granted the ability to train with a Hunter selected by the Deerstalker.
When pups reach 2 years old; they are eligible to be ranked up to their desired or specifically skilled area of expertise.
In order to successfully shift into the next rank - i.e Paladin, Seawarden, Gaurdian, etc, a wolf must prove he or she is worthy to do so (this applies to anyone wishing to rank up). Another round of testing is completed – capturing all of the wolf’s knowledge. There is no room for failure in these tests as you need to be competent and capable in order to move up. These tests are called the "trials". Wolves interested in gaining a higher rank (above level 2) throw their name forth and are subjected to a variety of tests. Alternatively, Alphess Carinthia can overrule the trials and choose a candidate based on her perception. But, the trials are more common.
Tests for wolves wanting to increase their rank within the pack are usually determined by the next ranking wolf of authority – this ultimately depends on the class and current status in the pack.
TERRAIN AND LOCATION
Most of the wolves in the Wacouta pack are sea wolves. There is a lot of watery coves and beaches within the pack territory, so these wolves tend to have strong legs and are very capable swimmers. Their fur is medium in length but tends to be rather smooth and sleek due to their fondness for water. Wolves of Wacouta do not have a particular pelt or eye colour and can vary. Fish and ocean critters are a favorite treat or snack for wolves within Wacouta, but that doesn’t seem to affect their desire for the big open meadows and the taste of deer.
LOCATION: West
WEATHER: The west is fairly subtropical; it is fairly hot and humid during Summer. The skies are clear and there is little - no wind. The water around the hemisphere is cool-warm, making it the perfect spot to cool off. Winters in the west are very mild; with snow only lightly dusting the grounds. On rare occasions, the west will get hit by a frost. The frost causes the rivers to have a thin icy layer, but usually by midday the sun has melted the ice away.
Summers: 25 and 27 °C (77 and 81 °F)
Winters: 7.5 to 16 °C (45.5 to 60.8 °F)
SPECIALITY
As many Wacouta wolves live to serve the Drowned God and are homed so close to watery terrain; they tend to have some unique traits to which only they adhere to. Other packs may find these traits unusual or unique; depending on who they are.
Seawardens (1-2)Seawarden's are wolves selected by the Alpha; Seawarden's are the pack's best resource when it comes to survival and succession. Seawarden's are supreme trackers and masters of survival; they are both quality hunters and fighters. They are deemed the pack's "best" resources; behind the leading wolves. In Wacouta they are known for their swift reflexes and diverse ability to hunt and fight in both water and on-land. Seawarden's are the class that train and mentor the Deltas and heirs of the pack. For day-to-day duties, the Seawarden's train the heirs of the pack, assist with hunting or fighting missions as dictated by the beta, and keep tabs and checks on Scouts and their whereabouts. Seawarden's report directly to the Alpha. (Level 4)
Spiritual wards: Wacouta wolves tend to collect remnants from the ocean to feel closer to The Drowned God; shells, pebbles, dried seaweed, feathers, etc. These materials often line the walls of the dens or are placed around the beddings of wolves. Sometimes they may be found by the borders too. Wacouta wolves see them as spiritual wards from The Drowned God which bring protection and good luck.
Familiars: Wacouta Scouts can obtain familiars/small animal companions. These companions do not comprehend wolf nor can the wolf comprehend them, but one another can interpret basic meanings i.e. – tail-flick left = go left, growl = go away, bark = come here. Familiars are seen to be gifts from The Drowned God and are usually injured or hurt animals that require caring for which is what ultimately forms the bond. These animals are just ordinary in all forms and so, therefore, will die easily if attacked. Familiars are commonly used as mini-scouts and companions. As they look like regular animals, if they are sent into enemy pack territory – die rolls will determine whether the creature survives. A wolf may have up to one familiar until it dies, then they can obtain another if The Drowned God so wishes. Sometimes wolves in higher ranks may have familiars too as they were former Scouts.
1d6 roll to determine the survival of the creature. 1 – 2: Killed by the enemy. 3 – 4: Returns injured, but alive. 5 - 6: Returns unharmed.
Birds, mice, rats, otters, snake, shrews, lizard, crab, rabbit (no animal bigger than a rabbit).
TRADITIONS
Lupercalia – an annual festival taking place at the start of Autumn. The festival is designed to ward Wacouta and protect the pack from evil spirits, bad omens, and release good health, fertility, and blessings for all. The festival takes place at the Mongoli River and requires the sacrifice of two male goats. The male goats are placed upon the Lupercal Alter (a large rock, arching into the river yet flat enough for the sacrifices - often decorated with shells, pebbles or other gifts from the river or ocean). Once the sacrifice has taken place, 4 wolves are selected to go forth to the Lupercal Alter. At the Alter, the Shaman (Or Alpha) anoint the 4 wolves with blood from the sacrifices. Being anointed is a great honor, one many wolves dream of. After the anointment, there is a large feast held at the River around the Alter. The feast is prepared by the Provider class who usually spend several days preparing. This feast is one that all wolves of Wacouta - no matter shape, size or rank, are permitted to join.
Motto/Slogan: 'Wardens of the West' and/or 'With Wisdom we conquer'
PREY TYPES
- Okapi
- Snakes
- Sloth
- Tapir
- Impala
- Birds
- Monkeys
- Capybara
- Eagles
- Bats
- Antelope
- Fish
- Zebra
Please note: Due to the fact Wacouta wolves can have "familiars" if they are Scouts, 'prey' which is already injured cannot be eaten or hunted (belief for those who worship The Drowned God and a popular view in the pack). These injured animals should be put out of their misery or taken in for healing - gifted to a Scout. Strong prey is what makes a strong wolf. Strong wolves make a strong pack.
HISTORY
In the beginning, female wolves were considered lesser in terms of power and authority. This was heavily due to the influence The Horned God had on Wacouta. Female wolves were deemed weak due to their smaller body size. But, throughout the years they have had numerous powerful female wolves in many high-ranking roles which has pushed the idea of females being considered ‘lesser’ into a very, very minor ideal. Females are valued a lot more due to their intellect and ability to produce pups. However, this was not always the case. Most wolves with this view are scoffed at and considered naïve. The first powerful female to rule was Alphess Alyria. She was small in size; mocked restlessly until she led a group of Wacouta wolves into a battle against a lone pack. The pack had been proving to be a competent but frustrating opponent. Alryia strategically outsmarted the lone pack, ensuring the victory for Wacouta. The lone pack never bothered Wacouta after that day.
SUMMARY
- Claims to be the first pack
- Predominantly home to sea-wolves
- Traditional with a slight spin
- Religious: Bonds dedicated to all Gods and Goddesses but the three most admired within the pack are: The Drowned God and The 3 Faced Goddess. Most wolves do not see any of the Gods or Goddesses to be 'false' except potentially Lady Luck
- Warm Mediterranean climate
- Unique traits - spiritual wards & familiars (scouts only)
- Unique ranking up process
- Celebration of Lupercalia; A sacrifice for protection against evil
- Wacouta wolves do not have a typical colour but are generally slender and small, with muscled legs from swimming