Redhawk Caldera PACKTIVITY -- Rudolph the red-nosed reindeer

Awkward packtivity is awkward. :P This was meant to be brief, anyway, so depending on how everyone responds, I'll either conclude this in a few days (let's say the deadline is Tuesday, 12/30!) or we can have another round. Up to you guys; one more post and you've all met the requirements for EXP!

Though there weren't many wolves present, there seemed to be a lot of commotion. Everyone was in a strange mood -- Fox and Peregrine were in their own little world, obviously, but even Finley and Somnia appeared to be put off about something or other. And poor Tempest -- what an introduction to Redhawk Caldera! She was handling it well, though, and showed no signs of being offended by her packmates' behavior.

Elwood was relived when Somnia followed his bidding and began to eat, pulling her chosen meal away from the pile -- and away from Finley. He watched as his friend carefully separated herself from the other Beta, a quizzical expression on his face. He wasn't given much time to think on it, however, for Peregrine and Fox soon "joined" the festivities. They approached the rest of the group, despite their evident attachment. Peregrine spoke directly to each member; Elwood's ears splayed to the side as he was addressed, then he watched as the Alpha male embraced Finley. He winced.

Luckily, he looked away from the train wreck in time to see that Tempest was beginning to eat, and he leaped at the opportunity to do the same. With one last quick glance at Peregrine, Fox, and Finley, he slunk over to the reindeer carcass and seized a slab of shoulder meat with his teeth. He dragged it free of the rest of the bones and ligaments, then settled down on his belly. The Beta male used his paws to steady his meal, while he consumed it quickly with large bites. The sooner he digested, the sooner this packtivity disaster could end.

Once he had consumed his portion, he sat back onto his haunches. His belly felt deliciously full, though a sense of unease had settled over him. Clearing his throat, he said loudly to the group, "Well, I was hoping that we would be able to socialize a bit once we finished eating. But, ah, it seems that there are some more important things that need to be taken care of...so I'll be here, cleaning up, if anyone wants to stay, but don't feel obligated." He looked to the Alpha pair, fully expecting them to be the first to exit -- and although he liked both of them, he wouldn't be sad to see them go in this situation.